1975 Topps #363 Carmen Fanzone

Carmen Fanzone was a solid utility infielder/outfielder for the Cubs during the early 1970’s. He was originally signed by the Red Sox and played 10 games at 3rd base for the Red Sox in 1970. The Red Sox had George Scott as the regular at 3rd with several other capable infielders so Fanzone was traded to the Cubs in December 1970.

Fanzone played 227 games for the Cubs between 1971 and 1974 before being released. With the Cubs, Fanzone hit .225 with a total of 20 home runs and 94 RBIs. He may be best known for catching the fly ball which wrapped up the 1972 Milt Pappas no-hitter. Fanzone was an accomplished musician and at least once played the National Anthem before a Cubs game. Fanzone played in the San Diego minor league system in 1975 and then retired.

After his MLB career ended, Fanzone went on to be a jazz musician. His wife, Sue Raney, is a Grammy nominated jazz vocalist.