Orioles All-Star second baseman Brian Roberts has become one of the most recognizable names in the organization. Every time he steps to the plate, the baby-faced Roberts elicits squeals from young female admirers.
Even his most ardent fans might not have recognized him in bobblehead form Saturday at Oriole Park at Camden Yards.
The Orioles were forced this week to recall 20,000 Roberts bobbleheads scheduled to be given out in this coming weekend?s game with the Rangers. When the bobbleheads arrived at the Orioles? offices, the team discovered the bobblehead featured a “darker” complexioned Roberts that bore little resemblance to the star, 28, who is white.
“I have not seen it, but I have heard it came out looking darker,” said Kevin Behan, Orioles manager of baseball information. “There was a manufacturing error on that.”
Player bobbleheads have become one of the most popular features at ballparks around the country, bringing in collectors and families. In past years, bobbleheads for Cal Ripken and other players have drawn large crowds. It is not uncommon for many to leave the park after getting a bobblehead, well before the first pitch is thrown.
The recalled bobbleheads could turn out to be valuable, according to Rick Currence, co-owner of Sports Card Heroes in Laurel. If the manufacturer destroys all but a few, collectors could scramble to get their hands on the remaining darker bobbleheads.
“It really depends on if they plan on correcting it,” Currence said. “If the darker ones get into circulation, they should have a pretty good premium.”
Last season, Roberts enjoyed a stellar season in 2005, being named “Most Valuable Oriole.” Currence said if Roberts goes on to a Hall of Fame career, a recalled bobblehead could attract serious money.
