The 2023 Topps baseball card release is one of the most anticipated issues of the year. Topps is the longest running and most iconic baseball card brand, producing cards since 1951. Their releases are must-haves for collectors both young and old. While many look forward to finding packs of the new Topps cards at stores like Walmart and Target, distribution has been unpredictable in recent years. Let’s take a closer look at what collectors can expect to find at Target for the 2023 Topps baseball card release.
Target has long been one of the largest and most consistent retailers for sports cards in the U.S. Their wide selection of products and large store footprint makes them a go-to destination for the hobby. For the 2023 Topps release, Target is expected to receive a generous allotment across their various formats. This includes both retail blaster and hanger packs, as well as more premium products like jumbo boxes and high-end collector’s boxes.
Target typically receives shipments of new Topps releases within the first couple weeks of release date. For the standard March release in 2023, look for 2023 Topps packs to start arriving at Target stores nationwide by mid-March. Distribution may vary slightly by region, with coastal areas sometimes receiving product a week or more ahead of central U.S. locations. In recent years, Target has also done pre-release “street dates” where a small number of exclusive blaster boxes are made available 1-2 days prior to the official release date.
For the standard retail blaster and hanger box formats, Target usually receives the largest and most consistent shipments compared to other major retailers. They aim to keep these lower-priced entry level products in stock for new collectors. Target’s exclusive blaster boxes in particular are a hot commodity for collectors due to their pink coloring and limited print runs. Be sure to check back frequently, as shipments of these lower end products tend to sell out quickly but are restocked on a rolling basis.
When it comes to more premium 2023 Topps baseball card releases at Target, the selection and availability tends to vary greatly store by store. Flagship jumbo boxes, high-end collector boxes, and other limited products are allocated very sparingly to individual stores. The best Target locations to check for these bigger ticket items include flagship stores in major metro areas, as well as stores located within driving distance of baseball markets. Be prepared to call around or check inventories online, as specific stores may receive only a handful of each premium product.
Overall, Target strives to be one of the most consistent major retailers for new Topps baseball card releases each year. With their widespread store presence and focus on the lower end blaster/hanger box market, casual collectors can feel confident checking their local Target frequently throughout the initial release window. Meanwhile, dedicated hunters seeking less common premium products may need to cast a wider net by calling around or checking less populated locations further outside major cities. With the right research and a bit of luck, the 2023 Topps baseball card release should be widely available through Target stores in March and April 2023.
