ROYAL ROOKIES!!!...In 1969, Kansas City finally replaced the relocated Oakland A's with the Royals, boasting rookies Ellie Rodriguez and Steve Jones. Drafted from the Yankees in the 1968 expansion draft, Rodriguez became the everyday catcher and earned an All-Star nod in 1969. Jones, who was taken from the Washington Senators, did not fare so well, as he went 2-3, appearing in 20 games before being sent to the minors for good. Offered here is a 1969 Topps #49 Royals Rookies in a PSA 9 MINT holder is one of only three at this high-grade level. This "RODRIGUEZ on Front" variation has only a single superior. Of the two variations, this is significantly rarer than the Rodriquez (with a “Q”) version. Only a year ago this very issue went for an alarming $15,000+, so we can only imagine what it might yield today!