1952 Topps #2 James E. Runnes PSA EX-MT 6

1952 Topps #2 James E. Runnes PSA 6 - A Yankee at the Dawn of Topps

Following Andy Pafko in the landmark 1952 Topps checklist is #2 Jim Runnels, pictured at the very beginning of a career that would eventually make him one of the American League’s finest pure hitters. Runnels debuted with Washington in 1951, making this early Topps appearance a snapshot of the young infielder before his best seasons—and before he built the batting résumé for which he is remembered.

Graded PSA EX-MT 6, this card occupies the second position in Topps’ groundbreaking 407-card set. The colorful portrait, facsimile signature, team logo, and statistical information on the reverse helped establish the ambitious format that made 1952 Topps so revolutionary. As card #2, Runnels sits at the very front of a checklist that would become one of the foundations of the modern hobby.

Runnels eventually blossomed after joining Boston, becoming a five-time All-Star and two-time American League batting champion. He hit .320 or better in five consecutive seasons from 1958 through 1962, including a career-best .326 in 1962 to capture his second batting crown. This 1952 Topps Jim Runnels PSA 6 offers an early look at a gifted hitter whose finest years were still well ahead of him.