The 2023 Topps baseball card release is one of the most anticipated issues in recent memory. With a star-studded rookie class and returning fan favorites, this year’s Topps offering is primed to produce cards that could gain significant value in the years to come. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the key 2023 Topps cards collectors should keep an eye on.
One of the biggest storylines heading into 2023 involves Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodríguez. After winning AL Rookie of the Year in 2022, Rodríguez is poised for superstardom. His Topps rookie cards from last year have already increased dramatically in price and any of his 2023 Topps base or parallel cards could become extremely valuable long term. As one of the faces of baseball, Rodríguez is a near lock to continue producing at an elite level and gain nationwide popularity.
Another rookie generating massive buzz is Atlanta Braves outfielder Michael Harris II, who had a phenomenal debut season in 2022. Harris II played a key role in the Braves’ run to the NL East title and his Topps rookie cards sold for big money last year. With his five-tool skill set and potential to be a perennial All-Star, Harris II’s 2023 Topps issue cards are must-owns for any savvy collector. His paper rookies could be worth a small fortune in the coming decades.
On the pitching side, Tampa Bay Rays starter Shane Baz is poised for stardom after returning from Tommy John surgery. When healthy, Baz has the electric stuff to dominate as an ace and his Topps cards from 2020 when he was a prospect hold solid value already. Baz’s 2023 Topps rookie cards have the chance to become extremely expensive long term. The same goes for fellow talented young hurlers like Chicago Cubs pitcher Javier Assad and Philadelphia Phillies flamethrower Andrew Painter.
For veteran stars, any parallels or short prints of superstar talents like Shohei Ohtani, Juan Soto, and Aaron Judge should hold strong long term value. Ohtani, Soto, and Judge are all capable of putting up MVP caliber seasons annually and continuously increasing their brand recognition. Rarer versions of their 2023 Topps base cards could gain thousands of dollars in value down the road.
Rookies and young stars aren’t the only players worth targeting though. Veterans still producing at an elite level like Mike Trout, Mookie Betts, and Francisco Lindor will always have desirable cards that retain value. Even parallels or serially numbered inserts of these established superstars could be worth a significant chunk of change in the future.
When it comes to chase cards in 2023 Topps, keep an eye out for serially numbered parallels below /199 as well as the always popular Topps Chrome and Paper rookies. Prizm and Optic also offer exciting parallel and short print options. For inserts, look to the Topps Fire, Topps Holiday, and Topps Inception sets which tend to hold strong long term value. Autograph and memorabilia cards of top young talents are also great long term investments.
The 2023 Topps release has all the makings of a classic issue. With so much young star power and proven veterans, there will be no shortage of cards that gain value over the next 5-10 years. Playing the long game by acquiring rookies, short prints, and parallels of top players is a proven strategy. For collectors willing to hold cards long term, this year’s Topps offering could pay huge dividends.
