The 2023 Topps Series 2 baseball card set is one of the most anticipated mid-season releases each year. After the initial Series 1 cards are distributed in March/April, collectors and investors eagerly await what new rookies, stars, and parallels will be featured in Series 2 starting in July. Some of the top things to know about the upcoming 2023 Topps Series 2 release:
Size of the Set: Like recent years, the 2023 Topps Series 2 baseball card set is expected to have approximately 400 total cards. This includes base cards for all current MLB players as well as prospects, managers, coaches, and retired greats. Parallels and insert cards will make up the remaining portion of the approximate 400 card checklist.
Key Rookies: One of the biggest draws of Series 2 each year is the inclusion of top rookies who made their MLB debuts after the Series 1 release. Some rookies to watch for in 2023 Topps Series 2 include catcher Adley Rutschman (Orioles), outfielder Julio Rodriguez (Mariners), infielder Bobby Witt Jr. (Royals), and pitcher Grayson Rodriguez (Orioles). Their base rookie cards as well as prized autographs and parallels will be in high demand.
Stars on the Move: Players who were traded or signed as free agents after the Series 1 release will have their first cards wearing their new uniforms in Series 2. Notable players switching teams in 2022 that could appear in new uniforms include Dansby Swanson (Dodgers), Xander Bogaerts (Padres), Brandon Nimmo (Phillies), and Carlos Rodon (Padres).
Parallels and Short Prints: In addition to the base paper cards, Topps Series 2 will include various parallels and short prints to add to the excitement of the release. Expect popular parallels like Gold, Silver, Rainbow Foil, and Refractors. Short prints like the coveted Topps Chrome cards are also anticipated. These parallel and short print cards hold greater value due to their lower print runs.
Insert Themes: Topps has used various creative insert themes in recent Series 2 releases to add to the fun and provide chase cards. Popular past inserts like “Stars of the Topps Project” and “Topps Now Moments” are likely to return. New insert sets focused on milestones, All-Star performances, and individual player accomplishments will also be showcased.
Release Date: Unless there are any delays, the official release date for 2023 Topps Series 2 baseball cards is currently scheduled for July 13, 2022. Boxes, blasters, and hobby packs will be available at most major hobby shops and online retailers on that date. Retail “hanger” and “fat” packs may take a bit longer to arrive at big box stores and drugstores.
Resale Market: With the increased popularity of the modern baseball card market, Series 2 cards hold great value for resale right out of the gate. Top rookies, stars, and short prints typically sell out quickly on the secondary market at release. Within a few years, some of the top cards from the 2023 Series 2 set could appreciate significantly in price assuming those players live up to expectations. The resale market gives collectors and investors opportunities to profit from the release.
The 2023 Topps Series 2 baseball card set is primed to continue captivating collectors with its mix of established stars, top prospects, fun parallels, and creative inserts. As a mid-season release each summer, it helps tide fans and the hobby over until the next year’s Series 1 arrives. Strong sales and interest in the 2022 Topps Series 2 release bode well for another successful offering from Topps when the 2023 version is unveiled in July. Experienced and novice collectors alike will enjoy adding to their collections through packs of the upcoming Series 2 cards.
