This special card goes beyond the significance of Hage's as a set of PCL rarities from the postwar and integration era. It gives us a unique look at a unique postwar player, and future Hall of Famer, during his earliest years of success. Orestes Minnie Minoso rapped over 200 hits for San Diego in 1950, clearing a path for one of the longest careers seen in any pro sport. Don't let this pose fool you: Minoso did far more than bunt in those days, as his .339 average included 70 extra base hits and .945 OPS! So many fans and collectors enjoy cards of Minoso that it's almost a shame this one stands alone.

As for the grade itself, a SGC PR 1 rating fairly reflects its corner wear and diagonal creasing. Its surface scuffed a bit, likely as it received those creases. On the upside, Minoso's central image remains strong, with vibrant black-and-white contrast. In the end, scarcity trumps technical grade, as the combined SGC/PSA population reports show it's his only graded example with this buting pose! A very special card of a unique player, whatever the condition might be.

Hage's Dairy of Southern California sponsored regional card sets from 1949-51, offered at concession stands for Lane Field Park, home of the PCL San Diego Padres. Most came packaged with popcorn and it's possible others entered the hobby via company or team promotions. 1950 singles prove tough indeed to find, as the PSA population report counts 66 total graded for its 128-player checklist. All 1950 cards come with black-and-white fronts and use similar text size for player and team names, distinguishing it from Hage's other years.