Manufacturer: Topps
Set: 1964 Topps Baseball ➡️
Player Name: Phil Niekro
Position/Team: Pitcher for Braves
Card #: 541
Card Size: 2-1/2” x 3-1/2”
Card Values: See Pricing Table Below
Philip Henry “Phil” Niekro, affectionately known as “Knucksie,” was one of the most unique and enduring pitchers in Major League Baseball history. His career spanned an incredible 24 seasons (1964-1987), almost entirely built on the mastery of the confounding knuckleball.
Niekro’s career is synonymous with the knuckleball. Taught by his father, he committed to throwing it almost exclusively, a brave decision given its unpredictable nature. The knuckleball is thrown with minimal to no spin, causing it to dance, dip, and float erratically as it approaches the plate. Unlike conventional power pitchers who often break down due to arm strain, the knuckleball puts less stress on the arm. This allowed Niekro to pitch deep into his 40s.
One of baseball’s most exclusive clubs, “The 300-Win Club”, Niekro joined it on October 6, 1985, at the age of 46, pitching a complete game shutout for the New York Yankees. He finished his career with 318 wins, placing him among the top pitchers in MLB history. On August 5, 1973, Niekro pitched a no-hitter against the San Diego Padres, the first in Atlanta Braves history.
Beyond his pitching prowess, Niekro was also an excellent fielder, winning five Gold Glove Awards (1978-1980, 1982, 1983). He was a five-time All-Star (1969, 1975, 1978, 1982, 1984). While primarily a Brave, Niekro also had stints with the New York Yankees (1984-1985), Cleveland Indians (1986-1987), and Toronto Blue Jays (1987) before finishing his career back with the Braves briefly in 1987.
Phil Niekro was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1997 in his fifth year of eligibility, a fitting tribute to his unique career and remarkable accomplishments. The Atlanta Braves retired his uniform No. 35 in 1984. After his playing career, he remained active in baseball as a coach and ambassador for the Braves organization.
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Pricing Data For This Rookie Card
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