TTM Stats
- Sent: 7/13/2022 | Received: 7/21/2022 | 8 Days
- ’80 Topps, ’84 Topps, ’86 Fleer, ’86 Topps
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
- Sent: 12/12//2022 | Received: 12/31/2022 | 19 Days
- ’78 Topps, ’83 Donruss, ’86 Topps
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
- Sent: 10/24/2023 | Received: 12/6/2023 | 42 Days
- ’75 Topps, ’76 Topps, ’81 Donruss, ’84 Topps
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
- Sent: 7/13/2024 | Received: 8/21/2024 | 38 Days
- ’74 Topps, ’81 Fleer, ’82 Donruss, ’82 Fleer, ’83 Donruss
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
Alonza “Al” Bumbry’s journey from the battlefields of Vietnam to the bright lights of Major League Baseball is a testament to resilience, leadership, and unwavering dedication. Born on April 21, 1947, in Fredericksburg, Virginia, Bumbry’s path to baseball stardom was unconventional but profoundly inspiring.
Initially, Bumbry’s athletic prowess shone on the basketball court. At Ralph Bunche High School, he averaged 32 points per game, leading to a basketball scholarship at Virginia State College (now Virginia State University). It wasn’t until his senior year that he took up baseball, batting an impressive .578 and earning the team’s Most Outstanding Player award. His performance caught the attention of the Baltimore Orioles, who selected him in the 11th round of the 1968 MLB Draft.
Before embarking on his professional baseball career, Bumbry fulfilled his ROTC commitment by serving in the U.S. Army. As a second lieutenant, he led a tank platoon during the Vietnam War, responsible for the safety of 45 men and nine vehicles. His leadership and bravery earned him the Bronze Star.
After completing his military service, Bumbry returned to baseball with renewed focus. In 1971, he batted .336 for the Aberdeen Pheasants, showcasing his speed and hitting prowess. The following year, he advanced through the minors, culminating in a September call-up to the Orioles.
Bumbry’s breakout came in 1973 when he won the American League Rookie of the Year award, batting .337 with 11 triples and 23 stolen bases. His speed and consistency made him a staple in the Orioles’ lineup, contributing to multiple postseason appearances and a World Series championship in 1983.
In 1980, Bumbry achieved career highs, including 205 hits and 118 runs scored, earning an All-Star selection. Over his 14-year MLB career, primarily with the Orioles, he amassed a .281 batting average, 1,422 hits, and 254 stolen bases.
Following his retirement in 1985, Bumbry remained active in baseball, serving as a first base coach for the Boston Red Sox, Baltimore Orioles, and Cleveland Indians. He also contributed to youth development programs, including the Washington Nationals Youth Baseball Academy, imparting his knowledge and passion to the next generation.
Bumbry’s contributions have been recognized with inductions into the Baltimore Orioles Hall of Fame in 1987 and the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame in 2002.
Al Bumbry’s life story is one of courage, adaptability, and excellence. From leading troops in Vietnam to leading off for the Orioles, his legacy serves as an inspiration both within and beyond the realm of sports.
The Score on Al Bumbry – 7.0
These are my first returns from Al. I think I am learning how many he is willing to sign through all this and it looks like he signs just about anything. He has a great signature and it has a good size to it as well. I wonder how much of it actually feels like he has a fun name anyway.
Thanks Mr. Bumbry! I’m giving these a 7 overall.
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Baseball Reference.