His selection as the 2006 American League MVP caused a bit of controversy. But just about everyone agrees that Minnesota Twins first baseman Justin Morneau has turned into a heck of a baseball player.
Don’t blame Morneau for having his breakout season in a year when no AL hitters posted monster numbers. His .321 batting average, 34 home runs and 130 runs batted in - all career highs - were good enough to take the award, event though some preferred Derek Jeter or even one of Morneau’s own teammates, AL batting champion Joe Mauer.
Morneau signed a one-year contract with the Twins for 2007, giving him the chance to prove that 2006 was no fluke. He’ll continue to form the nucleus of the Minnesota order, along with other young hitters like Morneau and Michael Cuddyer and veterans Torii Hunter and Rondell White.
As far as his cards go, Morneau’s rookies haven’t really taken off with collectors. Part of the problem is a lack of rarity, as his first issues from 2001 don’t include any numbered or autographed cards, and all six are easy to find. Still, if Morneau is able to put up an encore to his MVP season and lead the Twins back to the playoffs, interest is bound to pick up.
Justin Morneau 2001 Rookie Cards
- Bowman # 361
- Bowman Chrome # 169
- Bowman Heritage # 439 - SP
- Bowman's Best # 166 - #'d to 2999
- Topps Traded # T235
- Topps Chrome Traded # T235