Greg Gross Autographed 1983 Fleer #162 Philadelphia Phillies Card

Featuring former Major League outfielder, accomplished pinch hitter and 1980 World Series champion Greg Gross, this Greg Gross autographed 1983 Fleer #162 Philadelphia Phillies card celebrates one of the most dependable role players in Phillies history and an important contributor to the franchise's championship teams of the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Born on August 1, 1952, in York, Pennsylvania, Greg Gross began his professional baseball career after being selected by the Houston Astros in the fourth round of the 1970 Major League Baseball Draft.

Gross developed through Houston's minor league system before making his Major League debut on September 5, 1973.

He enjoyed an outstanding rookie season with the Astros in 1974, batting .314 with 185 hits and finishing second in National League Rookie of the Year voting behind Bake McBride of the St. Louis Cardinals.

Gross quickly established himself as a disciplined contact hitter who could reach base consistently and provide reliable outfield defense.

After three seasons with Houston, he joined the Chicago Cubs, where he continued to demonstrate his ability to contribute both as a starting outfielder and in a reserve role.

During the 1977 season, Gross batted .322 for Chicago, one of the finest offensive performances of his Major League career.

He joined the Philadelphia Phillies in 1979, beginning a ten-season association with the organization that would become the most memorable chapter of his playing career.

Philadelphia already possessed an outstanding roster featuring Mike Schmidt, Steve Carlton, Pete Rose, Larry Bowa, Bob Boone and Garry Maddox. Gross provided additional depth through his ability to make contact, handle multiple outfield positions and deliver quality at-bats in important situations.

His greatest team achievement came during the 1980 season, when the Phillies captured the National League East championship and advanced to a dramatic postseason.

Philadelphia defeated the Houston Astros in a five-game National League Championship Series before facing the Kansas City Royals in the World Series.

The Phillies defeated Kansas City in six games, securing the first World Series championship in franchise history.

Gross was a valuable member of that championship roster, contributing as a versatile outfielder and experienced left-handed hitter.

As his career progressed, Gross became particularly well known for his effectiveness as a pinch hitter, a specialized role requiring players to remain prepared despite receiving limited opportunities during games.

His patience at the plate, ability to put the ball in play and understanding of opposing pitchers made him a trusted option for Phillies managers in late-inning situations.

The 1983 Fleer #162 features Gross in his Philadelphia Phillies uniform and showcases the straightforward, photograph-centered design of Fleer's 1983 baseball card release.

The set remains a popular issue among collectors of 1980s baseball cards, featuring established stars, emerging talent and important contributors from across the Major Leagues.

The card represents Gross during his years as a respected Phillies veteran, just as the organization was preparing for another National League championship season.

In 1983, Philadelphia captured the National League East title and defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League Championship Series, earning the franchise's second World Series appearance in four seasons.

The veteran Phillies roster became affectionately known as the Wheeze Kids, a reference to the experience and age of several of its prominent players.

Although Philadelphia fell to the Baltimore Orioles in the World Series, the 1983 pennant remains an important accomplishment in franchise history.

Gross continued playing for the Phillies through 1988, concluding a 17-season Major League career with 1,073 hits and a .287 lifetime batting average.

Following his playing career, Gross remained involved in professional baseball as a coach and instructor, sharing his knowledge of hitting and preparation with younger players.

The 1983 Fleer #162 is an appealing addition for Greg Gross fans, Philadelphia Phillies collectors, 1980 World Series championship autograph collections, 1983 National League championship memorabilia enthusiasts, 1980s Fleer collectors or those assembling comprehensive autographed player runs.

Autograph Guarantee: Signature obtained through a private signing conducted by Under the Radar Sports Promotions and guaranteed to pass any third-party authentication service.