This expressive Helmar art card captures Jim Konstanty in his signature side-arm delivery, his body coiled
in a moment of concentrated power. The composition sets him against a radiant sky of orange and blue,
the colors echoing the Phillies’ 1950s palette. The clean geometric backdrop—stadium rails, field arcs, and
glowing clouds—enhances the focus on Konstanty’s determined gaze and taut motion, hallmarks of Sanjay
Verma’s modern-vintage style.

Konstanty’s 1950 season stands among the most remarkable in baseball history. Working almost exclusively
in relief, he appeared in 74 games, recorded 22 saves, and posted a 2.66 ERA, feats that earned him the
National League Most Valuable Player Award—the first reliever ever to claim that honor. His tireless
performance propelled the Phillies’ “Whiz Kids” to the pennant, and he famously started Game 1 of the
World Series against the Yankees on short notice.

As with all cards in Helmar’s “This Great Game” series, this piece celebrates the heroes of mid-century
baseball through hand-illustrated artistry inspired by 1930s–50s gum card design. Printed on heavy stock
with subtly aged borders, the card merges nostalgic warmth with painterly depth—an homage to both
Konstanty’s resilience and Helmar’s dedication to craft.

Original gouache painting by Sanjay Verma.