This Helmar “This Great Game” card honors Manny Sanguillén, one of the most colorful and
dynamic catchers of the 1970s. Sanguillén is captured here in the classic Pirates vest uniform,
his expression brimming with the confidence and grit that made him a fan favorite in
Pittsburgh. The composition, framed by the team’s signature gold and black, echoes Helmar’s
early color card heritage, balancing realism with a nostalgic warmth. The details—like the
‘Jolly Roger’ pennant in the upper corner—connect Sanguillén to the proud lineage of Pirates
baseball, while the vivid, painterly texture gives the portrait its unmistakably handcrafted
presence.

The reverse transforms the image into a vivid explosion of psychedelic energy. The bright
geometric border, filled with swirling lines and bold color blocks, perfectly captures the Helmar
spirit of blending history with art. Against the electric palette, Sanguillén’s figure radiates
energy and confidence, underscoring his importance to Pittsburgh’s championship era. Card
No. 83 stands as both a celebration of a beloved player and an emblem of the artistry that
defines Helmar’s reimagined baseball heritage. Original gouache painting by Sanjay Verma.