TTM Stats
- Sent: 4/23/2022 | Received: 5/5/2022 | 12 Days
- ’88 Fleer, ’88 Score (kept one card)
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
Mark Wasinger’s career in professional baseball might not have been lengthy, but it is a testament to perseverance and a lifelong love for the game. As an infielder with a gritty determination, Wasinger carved out a path to the big leagues, experiencing the thrill of playing at the highest level. Although his time in Major League Baseball (MLB) was brief, he left a lasting impression as a dedicated and passionate player.
Mark Thomas Wasinger was born on August 4, 1961, in Monterey, California. Growing up in a sports-loving household, he gravitated toward baseball at an early age. His talent and work ethic caught the attention of college scouts, and he went on to play for Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia. Wasinger excelled at Old Dominion, showcasing his versatility as an infielder and his ability to hit for contact. His standout performance earned him recognition and the opportunity to pursue his dream of playing professional baseball.
In 1982, the San Diego Padres selected Wasinger in the third round of the MLB draft. Like many aspiring big leaguers, he began his career in the minor leagues, working his way through the Padres’ system. Known for his hustle and leadership on the field, Wasinger quickly gained the respect of teammates and coaches. In 1984, Wasinger had a breakout season in the minors, hitting .309 with the Double-A Beaumont Golden Gators. His success earned him a promotion to Triple-A Las Vegas, putting him on the doorstep of the major leagues.
Wasinger made his MLB debut on May 27, 1986, with the San Diego Padres. He played 3 games for the team that season, primarily as a utility infielder. In 1987, Wasinger was traded to the San Francisco Giants, where he played 44 games that season. While his time with the Giants was brief, it allowed him to continue his major league journey. Over parts of three MLB seasons, Wasinger appeared in 50 games, recording a .244 batting average, with 22 hits and four RBI. Though his MLB career was short-lived, Wasinger’s passion for the game never wavered. He returned to the minors after 1987, playing for several Triple-A teams before retiring as a player in 1990.
Following his playing days, Wasinger transitioned into scouting and player development, using his knowledge and experience to help identify and nurture young talent. His post-playing career included roles with the Boston Red Sox, where he contributed to the organization’s scouting efforts. Wasinger’s dedication to the game extended beyond the field, as he remained active in various baseball-related endeavors, inspiring the next generation of players with his story of determination and hard work.
Mark Wasinger’s baseball career is a reminder that success in sports isn’t always measured by longevity or statistics. His journey from a standout college player to the major leagues showcases the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and a love for the game. While he didn’t achieve superstar status, Wasinger’s contributions to baseball, both on and off the field, have had a lasting impact. For fans and players alike, his story serves as an example of how dedication can lead to fulfilling lifelong dreams.
The Score on Mark Wasinger- 7.0
This is a nice return from a guy that really doesn’t have that many cards to sign. The 1988 Score card is definitely good. The signature really pops on that one. These are good examples of how an image can get in the way of a good signature sometimes. The 1988 Fleer is good quality, but it just doesn’t get to stand out as much.
Thanks Mr. Wasinger! I’m giving this return a 7.
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Baseball Reference.