The 1989 Fleer baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues of the late 80s/early 90s. While not the highest print run of the era, it contained several now-legendary rookie cards that have stood the test of time. The rookie class of ’89 included future Hall of Famers and longtime franchise cornerstones. Given the talent and name recognition of this group over 30 years later, it’s easy to see why these rookie cards remain highly sought after by collectors.
Perhaps the most noteworthy rookie of the set is Ken Griffey Jr. Despite only having played in 35 games in 1988 during his cup of coffee in the majors, Fleer correctly predicted his future stardom by making him the featured player on the very first card in the set. While unfortunate injuries prevented Griffey from having an even more storied career, he was still elected to the Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility with over 99% of the vote. His smooth left-handed swing and defensive excellence in center field made “The Kid” a fan favorite for over two decades. His ’89 Fleer rookie is one of the most iconic in the modern era and frequently fetches over $1000 in Near Mint condition to this day.
Another dominant rookie in the ’89 Fleer set who lived up to the hype was Barry Larkin. Though not receiving the esteemed #1 card placement like Griffey, Larkin debuted at #87 in the set. He would go on to have a Hall of Fame worthy career primarily with the Cincinnati Reds, where he was a 12-time All-Star, 3-time Gold Glover, 3-time Silver Slugger, and the 1995 NL MVP. Always known for his leadership as much as his talent, Larkin was the heart and soul of Cincinnati for nearly two decades. His slick fielding at shortstop and timely hitting made him one of the best all-around players of the 1990s. Like Griffey, Larkin’s ’89 Fleer rookie remains one of the most sought after and valuable from the entire set in top condition.
Another future Hall of Famer who debuted in 1989 Fleer, though with far less fanfare than Griffey or Larkin, was Tom Glavine. The lefty starter from Atlanta received the relatively lowly card #388 in the 792 card set. However, Glavine would go on to become one of the greatest pitchers in MLB history. Over 22 big league seasons split between Atlanta and the Mets, Glavine amassed 305 wins, two Cy Young Awards, ten Gold Gloves for his fielding excellence, and five All-Star selections. He was the ace of the Braves pitching staff for much of their record run of division titles in the 1990s. Glavine’s impeccable control and ability to pitch deep into games made him a mainstay in Atlanta for 17 seasons. Though not one of the flashy stars of the era, Glavine’s Hall of Fame career and solid debut rookie card make his 1989 Fleer one that collectors still seek.
While not reaching the heights of Griffey, Larkin, or Glavine, several other talented rookies from the ’89 Fleer set had long, productive MLB careers. Rafael Palmeiro made his rookie card debut at #230 in the set. Despite controversies later in his career, Palmeiro put together consistent 20+ home run, 100 RBI seasons for over two decades that led him to surpass both the 3000 hit and 500 home run milestones, an impressive feat joined by only five players in MLB history. Palmeiro was a perfect blend of power and hitting ability from both sides of the plate.
Relief pitcher Duane Ward also made his first baseball card appearance in 1989 Fleer at #376. Ward would become a stalwart closer for many seasons with Toronto in the early 1990s. His unorthodox sidearm delivery confused batters as he notched over 100 saves while helping the Blue Jays win two World Series titles. Though injuries derailed the latter part of his career, Ward remains an important part of Toronto’s championship history from that era. His rookie card provides collectors an affordable entry into the ’89 Fleer checklist.
Other notable rookies from this Fleer set include Curt Schilling (#433), Moises Alou (#444), and Juan Gonzalez (#721). Schilling went on have a stellar career highlighted by three World Series titles with different franchises late in his career. Alou was a consistent threat at the plate for over 15 seasons while playing for several teams. Gonzalez emerged as a dominant power hitter throughout the 1990s, clubbing over 300 home runs and winning back-to-back AL MVP awards during that decade’s peak. While none reached the heights of Griffey or Larkin, each player enjoyed long and successful MLB tenures, giving value to their rookie cards over 30 years later.
Beyond the quality rookies, 1989 Fleer had several other memorable aspects that added to the set’s significance. Veterans like Nolan Ryan, Ozzie Smith, Wade Boggs, and Don Mattingly anchored the checklist with established stars collectors enjoyed finding. Iconic traded cards like Griffey in a Seattle Mariners uniform and Frank Viola pitching for the Twins provided glimpses into future franchise changes on the horizon. Franchise greats like Kirby Puckett and Tony Gwynn highlighted talent from championship clubs of the late 1980s as well.
With its perfect storm of future Hall of Famers, solid veteran checklist, and prominent traded cards, 1989 Fleer has endured as one of the most beloved and collectible baseball card sets ever produced. Finding high quality versions of stars like Ken Griffey Jr., Barry Larkin, and Tom Glavine’s rookies in particular guarantees an expensive piece of cardboard history from one of the golden eras of the hobby. Over 30 years later, the rookie class and entire checklist from 1989 Fleer continues captivating collectors both young and old with a shining glimpse into where some of baseball’s greatest talents got their humble beginnings.
