Saturday, October 24, 2020

Cards That Never Were: Joe Reed Topps 1973, '75 & '79

Cards That Never Were is a recurring series in which I create virtual trading cards for players who were missed in various sets. It is a concept I have borrowed from far too many to list, but I appreciate all of their efforts. Many creations (and not just baseball) from others can be found in the Custom Baseball Cards Facebook group.
Joe Reed was selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the 11th round of the 1971 NFL draft. Reed debuted in 1972, appearing in nine games, without attempting any passes. He started thee games in 1973 and four games in 1974. He was traded to the Detroit Lions after the '74 season. In five seasons with the Lions, he started 12 games, serving mostly as a backup to Greg Landry. All told, he threw for 2,825 yards with 18 touchdowns and 31 interceptions.
For his efforts, Tops gave Reed cards in their 1974, '76, '77 and '78 sets. That left Reed out of the  1973, '75, '79 and '80 sets. Lynn from the aforementioned Custom Baseball Cards FB group created a Reed 1973 card. Inspired by Lynn, I made Reed cards for 1975 and '79. I have neither the picture or the creative skills to make a 1980 card for Reed, but maybe Lynn or another creative person will eventually produce one.

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