Manufacturer: Topps
Set: 1970 Topps Baseball ➡️
Player Name: Dave Watkins
Position/Team: Catcher for Phillies
Card #: 168
Card Size: 2-1/2” x 3-1/2”
Card Values: See Pricing Table Below
Originally signed as an amateur free agent by the Detroit Tigers in 1963 out of his hometown of Owensboro, Kentucky, the 5’10” right-handed hitting catcher was selected by the Philadelphia Phillies later that year in an early version of the first-year player draft. Watkins spent five full seasons grinding through the Phillies’ minor league farm system, slowly developing his defensive skills behind the plate while waiting for his breakthrough opportunity.
Watkins finally made the Phillies’ big-league roster out of spring training in 1969, serving as the team’s primary backup catcher to starter Mike Ryan. He was a versatile piece for manager Bob Skinner, occasionally playing the outfield and third base when not behind the plate. He enjoyed a solid flash of power during his stint, blasting 4 home runs in limited action. He played his final MLB game on October 2, 1969.
Following a 7-year total professional baseball run, Watkins decided to pivot toward a completely different passion. He returned to school, graduating with a biology degree from Kentucky Wesleyan College in 1972.
He then took a path incredibly rare for former professional athletes: he entered medical school, earning his M.D. from the University of Louisville School of Medicine in 1976.
Dr. David Watkins went on to have a long and distinguished career as a physician and medical director in Louisville, specializing in rehabilitation and neuroscience, eventually receiving the Greater Louisville Medical Society’s Excellence in Citizenship Award in 2009.
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Pricing Data For This Rookie Card
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Pricing chart includes raw card price & some graded card value estimates.
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