Jerry Hairston, Jr., 2002 Topps Gallery #111

I've done my share of mockery when it comes to Topps Gallery, so it's only fair that I commend the cards that got it right. This is a photo-realistic portrait of Jerry Hairston, Jr. gunning a throw to first base, with just enough artistic touches to keep it visually interesting. I'd like to tip my cap to Stephen Gardner, an England-born artist. According to his bio on the back of this card, Gardner's portrait of Joe DiMaggio hung in the Baseball Hall of Fame. I love his take on Bobby Thomson's "Shot Heard 'Round the World", which can be found at his website.