Have It Your Way

 

My recent bulk buy was a bit of a disappointment with a dash of success.  One of the boxes was loaded with Burger King cards, which prompted me to jump online and start searching for more.  I came across a set I didn't have, but thought was cool.  So for less than $15 I now have my own 1980 BK Pitch, Hit and Run set.  

Many collectors may remember the slogan of this popular fast food place.  It was used in the 70's and 80's and is still stuck in my head all these years later.  So when I come across cards with the Burger King logo, my mind automatically starts repeating it.  Too bad some marketing genius didn't think to package this set in box, which when opened started playing that jingo.

Apparently these cards were meant to promote a competition sponsored by BK.  The cards were produced by Topps and closely resemble their 1980 regular issue.

In many cases the BK cards simply copy their original Topps card, but not for Fred Lynn.  Here collectors are treated to two different photos.

Here you can see how the photo was cropped differently to accommodate the BK logo in the upper left.

Winfield was given the double head shot treatment.  A batting helmet and ball cap!  It is interesting to note how the facsimile autograph is placed differently.  Unfortunately, my BK card of Winfield will need to be upgraded.  That crease wasn't in the description.

At least the hometown team landed a pitcher in the set.  Not all teams were represented.

Another change to the back of the card.  The layout is the same but the original set was blue.

Here's a look at the full checklist.  Players are conveniently separated into 11 card groups by pitchers, hitters and runners.

I have no recollection of these cards or competition, but I love the 1980 design and in my opinion, the BK logo replacing the top pennant really doesn't hurt the appeal of these cards.  Also, these should not be confused with the regional sets BK offered to customers.  As far as I could find, only cards from the Pitch, Hit and Run set have the BK logo on the front.  I did find an old blog post that highlights the variances of Topps cards from 1980.

And now, for some reason, I'm hungry for a whopper.