Topps Unveils a Unique John Elway Trading Card
In an exciting announcement, Topps revealed a brand-new trading card featuring the iconic John Elway, showcasing him as a potential member of the New York Yankees. The card celebrates the “what might have been” aspect of Elway’s career, highlighting his noteworthy draft by the Yankees in 1981, just six picks ahead of legendary hitter Tony Gwynn.
A Dual-Sport Star in the Making
Before solidifying his legacy as a Pro Football Hall of Famer, John Elway was a promising baseball player. Drafted in the second round of the 1981 MLB Draft by the Yankees, Elway’s career in baseball was cut short when he chose to pursue football instead. Interestingly, he played in the Yankees’ minor league system in 1982 before being selected as the first overall pick in the 1983 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Colts.
An Ad Featuring Larry David
To celebrate the release of this unique card, Topps enlisted the help of Larry David, co-creator of the iconic television series “Seinfeld.” The advertisement features a humorous interview with Stephen A. Smith, who questions Elway about the Yankees’ decision to draft him over Gwynn. Elway humorously attributes the choice to none other than Yankees owner George Steinbrenner.
Inside Steinbrenner’s Office
The ad transitions to a comedic reenactment set in Steinbrenner’s office during the 1981 MLB Draft. David, voicing the character of Steinbrenner, is portrayed as wanting Elway on the team. When scouts advocate for Tony Gwynn, David dismissively refers to him as “the basketball player,” insisting that Elway’s “cannon of an arm” makes him the better choice for right field.
A Nostalgic Vision
As the skit progresses, David imagines a future where children line up for Elway’s baseball cards and envision his name in lights at Yankee Stadium. In a humorous nod to baseball legends, he declares, “DiMaggio, Mantle, Ruth — it’s gotta be Elway!” This vision encapsulates the spirit of nostalgia and “what could have been” in sports.
The Legacy of Choices
Ultimately, the ad concludes with the striking image of Elway in a Yankees uniform, accompanied by the tagline, “What might have been could be yours.” This trading card is part of Topps’ ongoing “What Ifs” series, which also featured a similar concept with NFL star Tom Brady and the Montreal Expos.
The Road to the NFL
While Elway initially pursued a career in baseball, he made headlines during the NFL Draft when he openly expressed his unwillingness to play for the Colts, threatening to remain with the Yankees if a trade did not occur. Ultimately, he was traded to the Denver Broncos, where he would go on to achieve legendary status.
In conclusion, John Elway’s journey from a Yankees draft pick to an NFL superstar is a testament to the crossroads athletes often face in their careers. With this new trading card, fans can celebrate the possibilities of his alternate path in baseball while cherishing his remarkable achievements in football.
