Kelly Sage, known as “the Canadian card guy,” is renowned among retired Canadian major league baseball players for supplying them with their own baseball cards. With a collection of around 50,000 cards, Sage estimates possessing 30,000 to 35,000 unique Canadian cards. His passion for collecting baseball cards began in the 1970s when he was a young child in Cardale, Manitoba.
Although Sage took a break from collecting when obtaining complete sets became easier, he reignited his interest after buying baseball card packs at a gas station. Intrigued by the number of Canadian players in the cards, he shifted his focus to collecting cards of Canadian-born players, finding it more engaging due to their limited numbers and lesser-known status.
Sage began sending cards to retired major leaguers for autographs and discovered that many lacked their own cards. Notable encounters include securing the autograph of former pitcher Denis Boucher. Sage’s reputation spread quickly within the player community, leading to requests for their cards.
Maintaining standing orders from players like Fergie Jenkins, Sage sends them their cards to distribute at events. His collection includes cards of approximately 190 out of the 260 Canadians who played in the major leagues. Sage’s dedication extends to building relationships with local card shops to acquire unique sets featuring Canadian players.
Beyond signed cards and baseballs, Sage’s collection now encompasses baseball memorabilia and a library dedicated to the sport. His home is adorned with collectibles that impress visitors, who often marvel at his supportive wife’s understanding. Rhonda Sage, equally passionate about her sewing and quilting room, appreciates the balance they’ve struck with their hobbies.
Kelly Sage has set rules for his collection, refraining from collecting signatures from current players, charging former players for cards, or selling signed items. He plans to eventually donate his extensive collection to the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame.