TTM Stats
- Sent: 9/18/2021 | Received: 6/17/2022 | 269 Days
- ’74 Topps, ’75 Topps, ’76 Topps, ’79 Topps (2)
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
Don Kessinger was one of the most reliable and talented shortstops of his era, known for his defensive brilliance and leadership on the field. Over the course of a 16-year Major League Baseball (MLB) career, Kessinger became a fixture with the Chicago Cubs, earning multiple All-Star selections and a reputation as one of the game’s smoothest infielders. Beyond his playing days, he continued to contribute to the sport as a coach and manager, leaving a lasting impact on baseball.
Don Kessinger was born on July 17, 1942, in Forrest City, Arkansas. A natural athlete, he excelled in multiple sports and went on to play both baseball and basketball at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss). His athleticism and baseball instincts stood out, and the Chicago Cubs signed him as an amateur free agent in 1964.
Kessinger made his major league debut with the Cubs in 1964 and quickly established himself as their everyday shortstop. Though he wasn’t a power hitter, he made up for it with excellent defensive play, soft hands, and great range. His defensive prowess earned him two Gold Glove Awards (1969 and 1970), and he was a six-time All-Star (1968-1972, 1974).
During the late 1960s and early 1970s, Kessinger was a key member of a strong Cubs team that included legends like Ernie Banks, Billy Williams, Ron Santo, and Fergie Jenkins. Despite the team’s struggles to reach the postseason, Kessinger remained a consistent performer, leading the league in assists multiple times and providing stability at shortstop.
After spending over a decade with the Cubs, Kessinger was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals in 1976. He played only one full season in St. Louis before moving to the Chicago White Sox in the middle of the 1977 season. While with the White Sox, he transitioned into a player-manager role in 1979, becoming the last player-manager in MLB history until Pete Rose took on the role with the Cincinnati Reds in the mid-1980s.
Following his retirement as a player, Kessinger continued his involvement in baseball as a coach and administrator. He spent time as a college baseball coach at his alma mater, Ole Miss, where he led the team from 1991 to 1996. His leadership and baseball knowledge helped shape future generations of players.
In recognition of his contributions to the sport, Kessinger was inducted into the Chicago Cubs Hall of Fame and the College Baseball Hall of Fame.
Don Kessinger’s legacy is one of consistency, leadership, and defensive excellence. While he may not have been a household name outside of Chicago, he was a cornerstone of the Cubs for more than a decade. His smooth fielding, quick reflexes, and steady bat made him a valuable asset to every team he played for.
Even beyond his playing career, Kessinger’s dedication to the game – whether as a coach, manager, or mentor – demonstrates his lifelong passion for baseball. His impact on the sport, particularly in Chicago and Mississippi, remains significant to this day.
The Score on Don Kessinger – 7.0
Don has been a reliable signer over the years, but he might have changed his habits some since I got this return back. He always has a really nice autograph – completely legible and usually uses a really nice marker. I think of these I live the 1974 Topps card because we should really think of him as a Cub. But how can you not like that airbrushed 1976 Topps card in a rival Cardinals uniform.
Thanks Mr. Kessinger! I’m giving this return a 7.
This is my fourth successful return from him. To see the other successful returns, check out these posts:
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Baseball Reference.