The 1989 Fleer baseball card set was one of the most iconic issues of the late 1980s. The design featured colorful player photos on a white background with team logos and player stats. Fleer released 792 total cards as part of the main set in 1989. While not the most valuable vintage baseball card set overall, it featured several hugely popular rookie cards and stars of the era that have stood the test of time.
One of the biggest storylines from the ’89 Fleer set was the rookie cards of future Hall of Famers Ken Griffey Jr. and Greg Maddux. Griffey’s rookie card quickly became one of the most sought after in the hobby due to his incredible talent and popularity as “The Kid”. Even at a young age, it was clear Griffey had the potential to become a true superstar and his card remains one of the most iconic in the modern era. Maddux’s rookie is also highly regarded as he went on to have a first ballot Hall of Fame career mainly with the Atlanta Braves, winning 4 Cy Young awards. Both Griffey and Maddux rookies hold significant value today for collectors, often grading out in the thousands of dollars if in pristine condition.
In addition to the star rookies, the ’89 Fleer set included cards featuring many of the game’s biggest names from that time period. One of the most visually striking and potentially valuable cards is the Kirby Puckett showcase card on the set number #765. Puckett was already a six-time All-Star and regarded as one of baseball’s premier outfielders by 1989. His card stands out with its bright purple and white design. In top grades, Puckett’s ’89 Fleer card can fetch well over $1000. Another Twins star with an eye-catching card is Kent Hrbek on card #443, known for his memorable home run in the 1987 World Series.
Pitching greats also had some of the most aesthetically pleasing cards in the set. Nolan Ryan’s action shot on card #99 remains one of the most recognizable from the late 80s/early 90s. His intimidating delivery and Hall of Fame resume give this card lasting appeal. Meanwhile, Orel Hershiser’s dominance in 1988, winning the Cy Young and MVP while setting the MLB record for most consecutive scoreless innings, made his card #105 a popular choice. Both Ryan and Hershiser cards can reach well into the triple digits even in lower grades.
The ’89 Fleer set also provided the first cards for some future Hall of Famers like Tom Glavine and Craig Biggio, who were just starting their rookie seasons. While not the costliest rookie cards, they hold significance as the first glimpse of these players’ careers. Veterans like Wade Boggs, Rickey Henderson, and Roger Clemens were also featured prominently after established careers of success up to that point. The vibrant designs helped make these star cards stand out in the sets.
In terms of chase cards and inserts, the ’89 Fleer set included several short prints and one-of-ones to entice collectors. The Frank Viola All-Star MVP short print (card #389) and the Nolan Ryan 3000th Strikeout short print (#99SP) are two of the most valuable variations. The 1/1 Ken Griffey Jr. insert card signed by “The Kid” himself is the true crown jewel and most valuable card from the entire set – often valued well into the six figures.
While production and print runs were much higher than today’s modern issues, the 1989 Fleer baseball card set still holds a special place in hobby history. Featuring rookie cards of future legends alongside the game’s biggest active stars, vivid designs made these cards instant classics. Even after 30+ years, the ’89 Fleer set continues to excite collectors with unforgettable cards from Griffey, Maddux, Ryan, Puckett and more. For vintage baseball card enthusiasts, the memories and historic significance of this particular issue ensure it remains one of the most revered releases from the late 1980s/early 90s era.
