This is a rare and valuable 2011 Topps Lineage Autograph of the legendary Bob Friend, who played for the Pittsburgh Pirates in the Major League during the Post-WWII era. This card is a must-have for any collector who cherishes sports memorabilia. The card features a Certified Authentic Autograph, signed by Bob Friend himself, in Hard Signed format, making it even more special.
The card is in its Original condition and has not been tampered with or restored in any way. It is made of Card Stock, with a thickness of 20 Pt., and belongs to the Topps Lineage Autographs insert set. The card number is RABF, and it is an Original release by Topps, not a Reprint. The Autograph Authentication is also done by Topps, making it a genuine item. Don't miss the chance to add this gem to your collection!
Robert Bartmess Friend (November 24, 1930 – February 3, 2019) was an American professional baseball player. He played in Major League Baseball as a right-handed pitcher between 1951 and 1966, most notably as a member of the Pittsburgh Pirates. A four-time All-Star, Friend was an integral member of the Pirates team that defeated the New York Yankees in the 1960 World Series. He played for the New York Yankees and New York Mets in his final season of 1966. As of 2019, he still held Pirates records for career innings pitched and strikeouts. He was the first man to lead the league in ERA while pitching for a last place team.
Friend was inducted into the Indiana Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979. Later, Friend would be enrolled into the Pittsburgh Pirates Hall of Fame as a part of the class of 2023.