Maybe This Was my First GQ Card

I thought the Cervelli printing plate I posted the other day was my first Gypsy Queen card of 2016. On closer examination I think Julie of a A Cracked Bat fame may have beat me to the punch.  Julie hasn't been blogging because of work obligations, but she is still adding cards to her collection.  From the note she sent me this was one of the hits from her box of GQ...

I don't hide my love for Gerrit Cole.  The Pirates have to lean heavy on the young ace as the rest of the rotation has been inconsistent. Besides Cutch he is probably the most valuable player on the team. He is one of my favorite players to add cards of.

Thanks for thinking of me Julie. This is was such a cool surprise.  I hope work settles down soon for you! I'll be sure to hook you up with some Astros/Tigers very soon.

Thanks for reading.

First Taste of Gypsy Queen

I didn't have much of a desire to pick up any new Gypsy Queen. The Pirates checklist really didn't offer much new. As usual my focus is always finding cards of guys that haven't got a lot of love being showcased as a Pirate. Enter Francisco Cervelli

2016 Gypsy Queen Francisco Cervelli Black Printing Plate

Cervelli has performed at a high level ever since taking the field for the Buccos. This has made him quite the fan favorite.  It took a little bit, but this is starting to show in card prices. This plate cost me just a shade below $20 shipped. Not a great price, but it allowed me to pick up another high end card of Cervelli so I'll take it. 

In years past I would be really excited about the release of GQ, but my set building days are pretty much over. The sp's proved to be way too expensive and I just didn't enjoy set completion as much as finding cool Pirate cards. At some point I would like to put together a vintage set, but for now I'm set retired building sets. 

Thanks for reading.