[clydepepper]

The true story behind the Eight-Ball missing on the back of Rodriguez's card is fascinating:

It seems Aurelio became quite the favorite among MLB / Topps- licensed photographers after sending the Angels' batboy to sit in for him five years before...a trick later repeated by Gary Pettis.

You would think such a deed would get him in trouble with all involved...instead it started his 'modest' legend. And his 'Bat-Boy' card became quite a find for both kids and adult collectors.

Many game attending fans were confused when the Bat-Boy, one Francisco Don, offered to sign the card even though the card had Rodriguez's name, not this 'wannabe'.

Well, I told you that story to help you appreciate why the Eight-Ball was deliberately not visible after the printing was done:

Mr. Rodriguez, a firm believer in all sorts of superstitions, was mortified upon seeing the card's proof showing the cartoon-in-question, positioning him 'behind the eight-ball'. and insisted that it be covered up.

Now, if just any Major Leaguer had asked for such a change, they would probably been shown the door. But, because Aurelio had such status at the time, the problem was resolved to his satisfaction.


Pretty Amazing, Huh?



It took a long time for this old guy to type out all of the details of this incredible story...and just as long to make it up.