TTM Stats
- Sent: 3/22/2022 | Received: 3/31/2022 | 9 Days
- ’13 Topps
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
Adam Greenberg is a former major league baseball player. He had a rocky career due to some tragedy on the diamond and played in just two games in two seasons: 2005 with the Chicago Cubs and 2012 with the Miami Marlins. His baseball career is a tale of resilience, determination, and an unyielding love for the game. Though his time in Major League Baseball (MLB) was brief, his story has resonated with fans and athletes around the world as a powerful example of overcoming adversity.
Born on February 21, 1981, in New Haven, Connecticut, Adam Greenberg grew up with a passion for sports, particularly baseball. He was a standout athlete at Guilford High School, where his exceptional speed and talent on the field caught the attention of college scouts. Greenberg went on to play college baseball at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he further honed his skills as an outfielder.
In 2002, Greenberg’s dream of playing professional baseball took a significant step forward when the Chicago Cubs selected him in the ninth round of the MLB Draft. He quickly made his way through the minor leagues, impressing with his speed, defensive ability, and contact hitting. By 2005, he was on the cusp of realizing his lifelong dream of playing in the major leagues.
On July 9, 2005, Adam Greenberg’s life changed in an instant. In his very first plate appearance for the Chicago Cubs, he was hit in the head by a 92-mile-per-hour fastball from Florida Marlins pitcher Valerio de los Santos. The impact was severe, causing a concussion and vertigo, symptoms that would persist long after the initial injury.
The incident was a shocking and tragic moment in baseball, and it effectively ended Greenberg’s first stint in the major leagues. Over the next several years, he struggled with the lingering effects of the injury, which hindered his ability to perform at the level required to stay in professional baseball. Despite the challenges, Greenberg never gave up on his dream of returning to the majors.
Greenberg’s journey back to baseball was arduous. He spent years playing in the minor leagues and independent leagues, refusing to let the injury define his career. His perseverance and positive attitude won him many admirers, but the elusive goal of returning to the MLB remained just out of reach.
In 2012, Greenberg’s story caught the attention of filmmaker Matt Liston, who launched a campaign to get Greenberg one more at-bat in the majors. The campaign, titled “One At Bat,” gained significant media attention and public support. It eventually led to the Miami Marlins offering Greenberg a one-day contract to give him another chance at the plate.
On October 2, 2012, seven years after his first and only MLB appearance, Adam Greenberg stepped into the batter’s box for the Miami Marlins. Though he struck out against New York Mets pitcher R.A. Dickey, the moment was a triumph of the human spirit. Greenberg had defied the odds and returned to the majors, fulfilling a dream that had seemed unattainable.
Following his final MLB at-bat, Adam Greenberg officially retired from professional baseball, but his story didn’t end there. He turned his experience into a platform to inspire others, becoming a motivational speaker and advocate for athletes dealing with injuries and setbacks. He also authored a memoir titled “Get Up: The Art of Perseverance,” where he shared the lessons he learned from his journey in baseball and life.
Greenberg’s story is also one of giving back. He has been involved in various charitable activities, including supporting research and awareness for brain injuries and concussions. His resilience and positive outlook have made him a role model for many, both inside and outside the world of sports.
The Score on Adam Greenberg – 7.0
Adam has a pretty squiggly signature that he put on this 2013 Topps card. I almost wish it was a Cubs card because the blue would go well with that team, but it really stands out nicely on this one.
Thanks Mr. Greenberg! I’m giving this return a 7.
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Baseball Reference.