Kohl’s is a popular chain store known for offering clothing, home goods, toys and more at affordable prices. While many customers may not associate Kohl’s with baseball cards, the retailer actually carries a decent selection of cards specifically during certain times of the year. Here is an overview of Kohl’s baseball card offerings, buying tips and more.
History of Baseball Cards at Kohl’s
Kohl’s began carrying baseball cards in the late 1990s as a way to draw in new customers, especially young families. At that time, the baseball card hobby was booming in popularity again thanks to stars like Ken Griffey Jr. and Mark McGwire smashing home run records. Kohl’s targeted this demand by stocking packs, boxes and sets around the traditional baseball card selling seasons of spring and summer.
Over the next two decades, Kohl’s baseball card selection evolved and expanded. During the early 2000s heyday of Derek Jeter, Kohl’s carried more vintage boxes and sets to appeal to collectors. In recent years, Kohl’s has embraced retro styling and put a focus on affordable Ripken, Mantle and Robinson reprints. Topps, Panini, Leaf and other top brands have partnered with Kohl’s to distribute exclusives only found in-store as well.
When to Find Baseball Cards at Kohl’s
The absolute best time to look for baseball cards at Kohl’s is during late winter/early spring and summer. This is when the upcoming MLB season gets baseball fever running high. Kohl’s stocks up extensively on the newest releases from all the major card companies in both rack packs and higher end products.
Specifically, keep an eye out in late February through May for the latest baseball cards to hit shelves in anticipation of Opening Day. From June through August, Kohl’s keeps the baseball fun going with summer promotions, multi-packs and value bundles to please kids and collectors alike. Autograph and memorabilia cards tend to appear more during these core baseball months at Kohl’s.
Outside of prime season, Kohl’s baseball selection dwindles but doesn’t disappear. Look for remaindered stock or classic sets through fall and holiday shopping seasons. Rack packs containing stars from years past often linger at discounted prices year-round. Additionally, Kohl’s puts fresh energy into basketball cards when MLB action ends for the season.
Pros and Cons of Shopping at Kohl’s
Pros:
Very affordable prices on many baseball cards, packs and boxes
Exclusive Kohl’s brands like Ripken Archives offers unique deals
Large assortment of major brands all in one convenient place
Finds vintage and heritage products mixed with modern releases
Reward points and coupons can save you even more money
Cons:
Stock depends on time of year – summer has best selection
Products may not be as fresh as hobby shop or online retailers
Higher-end vintage/memorabilia items are usually lacking
Not ideal for breakers/case break participants
Limited expertise on hand for grading/authentication questions
Overall, Kohl’s works well for casual collectors or gift seekers on a budget. die-hards may prefer a local card shop. But browsing the selection provides an affordable way to build sets or find a special vintage card during baseball season shopping trips. Rewards programs amplify already low prices further.
Tips for Maximizing Your Kohl’s Baseball Card Haul:
Shop during late winter/early summer for the biggest stock of new releases.
Combine a finds with other purchases to tap Kohl’s rewards/cash back offers.
Look through endcaps and clearance racks for deeply discounted year-old products.
Consider Kohl’s-exclusive brands and partnerships for unique deals.
Download the Kohl’s app for instant coupons before your visit.
Ask seasonal staff questions – they’re trained on current products.
Check if promo packs or mystery bundles offer better overall value.
Sign up for Kohl’s card for extra 30-day returns protection.
In summary, Kohl’s doesn’t have the selection level of specialty shops but offers baseball cards at prices unbeatable for casual collectors. By shopping strategically during peak season windows and utilizing money-saving perks, fans can find fun cards for themselves or as gifts without breaking the bank. Kohl’s consistent if not extensive stock has become a dependable source for baseball card needs.
