TTM Stats
- Sent: 6/29/2022 | Received: 7/8/2022 | 9 Days
- ’77 Topps, ’78 Topps
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
Chris Knapp, a right-handed pitcher, played in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1975 to 1980, representing the Chicago White Sox and the California Angels. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches and weighing 195 pounds, Knapp’s professional career was marked by notable highs and subsequent challenges.
Born on September 16, 1953, in Cherry Point, North Carolina, Robert Christian Knapp grew up in Michigan, attending Lakeshore High School in St. Clair Shores. He began his collegiate baseball journey at Kalamazoo Valley Community College before transferring to Central Michigan University. His impressive performance at Central Michigan led to his selection by the Chicago White Sox as the 11th overall pick in the first round of the 1975 MLB Draft .
Knapp made his MLB debut on September 4, 1975, for the Chicago White Sox. While he spent portions of his initial seasons developing in the minor leagues, he secured a more consistent role in 1977. That year, he appeared in 27 games (26 as a starter), achieving a 12–7 win-loss record and completing four games .
In December 1977, Knapp was traded to the California Angels alongside Brian Downing and Dave Frost in exchange for Bobby Bonds, Richard Dotson, and Thad Bosley. The 1978 season marked the pinnacle of Knapp’s career; he started 29 games, recorded a 14–8 win-loss record, and pitched six complete games .
Following his standout 1978 season, Knapp faced difficulties maintaining his performance levels. In 1979, he posted a 5-5 record with a 5.51 ERA, and in 1980, his ERA rose to 6.14. These challenges led to his reassignment to the minor leagues, and he concluded his professional playing career after the 1980 season .
Career Overview
- MLB Debut: September 4, 1975, with the Chicago White Sox
- Final MLB Appearance: October 5, 1980, with the California Angels
Career Statistics:
- Win–Loss Record: 36–32
- Earned Run Average (ERA): 4.99
- Strikeouts: 355
- Innings Pitched: 604.1
- Complete Games: 15
- Walks and Hits per Innings Pitched (WHIP): 1.48
Chris Knapp’s MLB career, though relatively brief, featured moments of significant achievement, particularly during the late 1970s. His journey underscores the challenges and unpredictability inherent in professional sports.
The Score on Chris Knapp – 6.0
A nice return from Chris, but these cards are not great for Chris to show his autograph off. The 1977 Topps cards is a bit better because at least there isn’t a dark blue uniform on him. I’m definitely going to try Chris again because I’ve found some more cards from him.
Thanks Mr. Knapp! I’m giving this return a 6.
This is my second return from him. To see the first return, check out my post from June 2023.
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Baseball Reference.