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One of the greatest catchers of his era, Bill Freehan made the All Star team in ten consecutive years, and in all 11 seasons in which he caught at least 75 games. He played on two American League champions including the 1968 World Series winners. In this photo Freehan (L) shakes hands with American League President and Hall of Fame shortstop Joe Cronin who has also signed the image. In the middle of the two is Tiger owner John Fetzer.

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The Major League Baseball Players Association sent out questionnaires like this one to its players to determine what endorsements each man had. Today’s players compliment their baseball salary with off field endorsement but that wasn’t always the case. This document filled out by Bill Freehan on June 5, 1974 shows him having a number of endorsements. This was rare for the era.

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Shown here is the closeup of the bottom of Bill Freehan’s 1974 MLBPA endorsement questionnaire. Freehan has added, “Detroit” directly under the line where he printed his last name. The catcher played for the Tigers not only in 1974, but for the entirety of his 15-year career.

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Bill Freehan signed with the Detroit Tigers in 1961 and debuted later that same season. In this picture taken the same year, Freehan shakes hands with Tiger owner John Fetzer. Many believe Freehan deserves Cooperstown consideration. An all star in all 11 season in which he caught at least 75 games, Freehan played in 11 All Star games and was a Gold Glove catcher all five seasons from 1965-1969. Freehan’s signature appears between the two men.

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In the collection is this limited edition Upper Deck collectors series tribute to the 1971 Tigers signed by Freehan, Willie Horton, Al Kaline and Mickey Lolich. All four players were on the Tigers 1968 championship team and the 1971 team that won 91 games. Freehan was an All Star in both years and enjoyed his finest all around season in ’68 when he also won a Gold Glove and was second in MVP voting.