Tony Batista Autographed 2002 Topps Heritage #284 Baltimore Orioles Card

Combining a vintage-inspired design with one of Baltimores leading power hitters of the early 2000s, this Tony Batista autographed 2002 Topps Heritage #284 Baltimore Orioles card comes from the second year of the popular Topps Heritage brand. The 2002 Heritage release was modeled after the 1953 Topps baseball set, bringing the classic painted-portrait style and retro presentation of that landmark issue to contemporary players.

Batista arrived in Baltimore after being claimed off waivers from Toronto in June 2001 and immediately provided the Orioles with significant power. In only 72 games with Baltimore in 2001, he hit 25 home runs and drove in 87 runs, quickly establishing himself in the middle of the Orioles lineup.

He followed with an impressive 2002 season, appearing in 161 games and leading Baltimore with 31 home runs while driving in 87 runs. Batista was selected to the American League All-Star team, giving him the second All-Star appearance of his career after representing the Toronto Blue Jays in 2000.

Known for his extraordinarily wide-open batting stance, Batista was one of the most instantly recognizable hitters of his era. He reached 30 home runs three times during his career, highlighted by career highs of 41 home runs and 114 RBI with Toronto in 2000. Across his first two seasons with Baltimore, he combined for 56 home runs and 174 RBI in 233 games.

Batista finished his 11-year Major League career with 1,146 hits, 221 home runs and 718 RBI. With its vintage-inspired 1953 Topps design and connection to Batistas 2002 All-Star season, the 2002 Topps Heritage #284 is an appealing addition for Baltimore Orioles collectors, Tony Batista fans, Topps Heritage collectors or collectors 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.