Gems of Junk Wax Bracketology: The Final Four

Well, here we are.

The Final Four.

Our original field of 64 has been trimmed down to the four best of them all. I know I'd have an insanely difficult time if I were in on the voting in this tournament.

Instead of splitting them up, I've decided to present both of our "Final Four" matchups together on the blog tonight. The two victors from these pairings will meet in the championship.

Voting on the "Final Four" will close this Thursday, June 27th, at 11:59 PM.

Here are our last men standing.

#8 -- 1987 Topps #170 Bo Jackson RC

VS.

#9 -- 1991 Topps #170 Carlton Fisk

Now that's a coincidence.

What are the odds that two different cards with the #170 would meet in the "Final Four"?

As far as overproduction era cardboard goes, it has to be the ultimate hero number. Two of the most iconic pieces in Topps history were granted that very spot in checklists just four years apart.

The Jackson is more remembered for what it represents. The wood-grain '87 design is near and dear to the hearts of a lot of today's collectors.

Plus, that was the year "Bo" mania really started to erupt, which makes this "Future Stars" piece such a desired card around most hobby circles.

The Fisk, on the other hand, is more known for the awesome action shot featured on its front. In so many words, it's simply a piece of photography gold.

It's obvious that both of these magnificent pieces of cardboard have strong followings in this hobby.

Needless to say, I'm excited to see who emerges victorious in this "Final Four" matchup.

#8 -- 1987 Topps #653 Kevin Mitchell RC

VS.

#12 -- 1991 Topps #760 Benito Santiago

In a strange twist of fate, both of our "Final Four" pairings pit '87 and '91 Topps pieces against each other.

Like many great shots in this hobby's history, both of these revolve around home plate. 

In one of the more recognizable shots of the entire overproduction era, a cloud of dust covers the base and all its surroundings on Kevin Mitchell's 1987 Topps masterpiece. 

And, in one of the better posed shots ever, a Topps photographer captured a beautiful bird's-eye image of Mr. Santiago popping out of his crouch behind the plate. It's a card that has long been a centerpiece of my collection.

So, what'll it be?

Could we perhaps have an all-1991 Topps championship on our hands? Or perhaps an all-'87 final matchup?

That's up to you. I'm sure quite a few tough decisions will have to be made with these two matchups. Let the agonizing begin!

The polls are now on the sidebar.

Happy voting!