1975 Topps #315 - Don Kessinger

Don Kessinger was a familiar face in a Cubs uniform for 12 seasons (1964 to 1975). Although he was not known for his offensive abilities, Kessinger was a solid defensive shortstop. He was named to the All-Star team six times (1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972 and 1974). In at least in one list of all-time Cubs, Kessinger ranks #43.

During the 12 years as a Cubs Kessinger played in 1,648 games and collected 1,619 hits. He had a Cubs career batting average of .255 and scored 769 runs.

1975 would be his last year with the Cubs. After the season he was traded to the Cardinals for Mike Garman. Mike Garman would play 47 games with the Cubs in 1976 and then be a part of the trade that sent Rick Monday to the Dodgers for Bill Buckner and Ivan DeJesus.

Kessinger would play 1976 with the Cardinals and then be traded in August 1977 to the White Sox. Kessinger’s career ended in 1979 after a short stint as the White Sox playing manager.