TTM Stats
- Sent: 3/24/2022 | Received: 4/11/2022 | 17 Days
- ’69 Topps, ’70 Topps, ’75 Topps
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
Dick Green, the second baseman for the Oakland Athletics during their championship years in the early-to-mid 1970s, made contributions often flew under the radar, but his impact on the team was undeniable. He spent his entire career with the Athletics franchise, even through their move from Kansas City to Oakland. His twelve year career spanned from 1963 to 1974.
Born on April 21, 1941 and grew up in Iowa and South Dakota. He developed a love for baseball at a young age. His natural talent and passion for the game led him to get a scholarship to Michigan State University. But instead of going to college he also caught the attention of professional scouts. In 1960, Green signed with the Kansas City Athletics, the precursor to the Oakland Athletics, and began his journey through the minor leagues.
Green’s steady performance in the minors earned him a call-up to the majors in 1963. He made his debut with the Athletics on September 9, 1963, and quickly established himself as a reliable and defensively gifted second baseman. Despite the team’s struggles during the early 1960s, Green’s consistent play made him a mainstay in the lineup, and he became known for his strong glove and baseball IQ.
The Kansas City Athletics relocated to Oakland in 1968, and it was with the Oakland A’s that Green would make his mark on baseball history. As the team built a powerhouse roster, Green remained a steady presence at second base. While his offensive numbers were modest, with a career batting average of .240, 80 home runs, and 422 RBI, it was his defensive prowess and leadership on the field that set him apart.
During the A’s dynasty years from 1972 to 1974, when the team won three consecutive World Series titles, Green played a crucial role in their success. His ability to turn double plays, range to both sides, and provide stability in the middle of the diamond made him an invaluable asset. Green’s performance in the postseason, particularly his defensive contributions, was instrumental in the A’s championship runs.
One of Green’s most memorable moments came in the 1974 World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Despite not recording a hit in the series, Green’s defensive play was exceptional, and he was widely credited with helping the A’s secure their third straight title. His unselfish play and focus on doing whatever it took to help the team win earned him the respect of his teammates and opponents alike.
After the 1974 season, Dick Green retired from baseball. He chose to walk away from the game on his own terms, with his legacy as a key contributor to a dynasty firmly intact. Green returned to his roots in South Dakota, where he settled into a quieter life away from the spotlight.
In retirement, Green largely stayed out of the public eye, but his contributions to the Oakland Athletics have never been forgotten. He has been honored by the team and remains a beloved figure among A’s fans, who remember him as a player who embodied the true spirit of teamwork and dedication.
This is my third successful return from him. To see the other two returns, check out these posts:
The Score on Dick Green – 7.5
Dick always has had a beautiful signature and and it really came out great on all these cards. He’s so consistently good too. I don’t remember getting smudges or anything like that from him on prior returns. He even took the care to not sign directly over the facsimile signature on the 1975 Topps card.
Thanks Mr. Green! I’m giving this return a 7.5.
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Baseball Reference.