Unpossible Autograph Friday- Joe Taylor

Joe Taylor was one of the six former Orioles whose autographs I still needed before my dad let me know about this index card that was recently listed on ebay. As hard as I try to stay on top of any listings of the players I still need for my collection, sometimes these autographs slip past me, so I have to yet again thank my dad for helping me out!

Joe played in the Major Leagues for parts of four seasons in the 1950s, and spent his last season plus of big league action in Baltimore in 1958-59. Prior to playing in the Majors, Joe had spent some time in the Negro Leagues. Overall, he played in 119 games for the Philadelphia A's, Cincinnati Redlegs, St. Louis Cardinals and Orioles; 50 of those games were as a member of the Orioles during which time he played all three outfield positions and also frequently appeared as a pinch hitter.

Joe was featured on only one card during his playing career, a 1958 Topps card that pictures him as a Cardinal. He was included in the Orioles Crown set that came out in mid 1991, shortly before his death in March of 1993. I've never seen either card signed, in fact, this 3x5 was the first autograph of his I've ever seen, but I've heard he was a good signer, so I'm holding out hope that I can track down a signed copy of his Crown card one day.

RIP Joe, thanks for the memories.