As a huge Twins fan, I am happy that Johan Santana finally got to pitch a no-hitter. He was always one of my favorite Twins, and I had witnessed him come awfully close on a few occasions at the Dome. Even though he is now playing for a different team, I am someone who will applaud the effort, especially when it is the first time a Mets player has ever done it.

Johan has a lot of expensive cards that people like me used to chase all the time. Since his dominance has tapered off during the transition to the national league, many of his once high end cards are now a lot less expensive. Santana does have a great looking signature, to his credit, but the card that everyone wants right now doesnt bear an autograph.

Back in 2008, Topps released a card that many collectors were questioning as being tasteful, especially because it was “commemorating” an event that had not only been fabricated, but was a touchy subject for a lot of fans. Now that the Santana no hitter has actually taken place, this card seems awfully clairvoyant.

Contrary to my expectations, the 2008 card has yet to pop up since last night. Its a truly rare card:

2008 Topps Johan Santana No-Hitter Variation #661 – just a bonkers price for an SSP.

I dont really think this is one of those cards I find to be appealing. However, I do think it might be one of the most expensive non-RC base cards in the modern era. Even more so now because of last night. I cant think of another card that would sell higher than this.

I wish Johan Santana’s HOF career that was started in Minnesota ended up being what it should have been, but like many pitchers of this era, its all about staying healthy. I think that Santana had the stuff to be one of the best of all time, especially with a changeup that sucked in hitters like a black hole. Hell, even Francisco Liriano hasnt been the same without his tutelage.

Instead of being one of the best of all time, Santana will go down as the first Mets pitcher to throw a no-hitter, and that’s about it. Even though his resume also includes 2 Cy Young awards, that isnt his claim to fame anymore. Its too bad, because I really wanted him to be all he was supposed to be.