#197) MIKE PHILLIPS

Mike Phillips joined the New York Mets when they purchased his contract from the San Francisco Giants on May 3, 1975. He made his debut with the team five days later at Shea Stadium facing the Pittsburgh Pirates. Phillips was the starting shortstop filling in for an injured Buddy Harrelson.

Mike became only the third Mets player in franchise history to hit for the cycle when he accomplished the statistical feat on July 25, 1976. He collected the four hits as the leadoff hitter facing the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. His home run was one of only six that he would hit in his three years with the Mets. In recognition, Phillips was given the National League Player of the Week Award on July 27th.

The New York Mets traded Mike Phillips to the St. Louis Cardinals in exchange for Joel Youngblood on June 15, 1977.

After his playing career, he joined the Kansas City Royals and served as their Vice President of Corporate and Group Ticket Sales.

I created Mike Phillips card in the set from an autographed index card given to me by my friend, Jessie on June 24, 2010.