The 1998 Topps baseball card set was one of the most exciting and valuable sets released during the 1990s. While it didn’t feature any major rookie cards of future Hall of Famers, it did include cards of some of the biggest stars in baseball at the time and captured memorable moments from the 1997 season. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout cards from the 1998 Topps set that have held their value well over the years.
Ken Griffey Jr. (#1) – Leading off the set as the #1 card is future Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr. Griffey was still in his prime with the Mariners in 1998 and had put together another impressive season in 1997. His card featured his smooth left-handed swing and reminded collectors why he was one of the most exciting players in baseball. Griffey’s rookie card from 1989 Topps is one of the most coveted and valuable cards ever printed, so collectors loved starting the ’98 set with another Griffey. This card still fetches $15-20 in near mint condition.
Cal Ripken Jr. (#91) – Cal Ripken Jr. was entering the final seasons of his Hall of Fame career with the Orioles in 1998. His ’98 Topps card paid tribute to Ripken breaking Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games played record in 1995 by showing him tipping his cap on the field after #2,632. As one of the most respected players in the game, Ripken’s cards always held value. This milestone moment captured on card #91 remains a $10-15 card in top condition.
Mark McGwire (#101) – Mark McGwire’s monster 1997 season, in which he smashed a then single-season record 70 home runs, is immortalized on this card. It shows “Big Mac” in his home run trot after crushing another long ball. McGwire’s record-setting year made him the biggest star in baseball and one of the most sought-after cards in the ’98 set. Even with his later steroid admission, this McGwire remains a $15-20 card due to its iconic subject matter.
Sammy Sosa (#119) – McGwire’s home run rival from 1998, Sammy Sosa, also had a monstrous 1997 by belting 66 home runs to finish second to McGwire. His ’98 Topps card captured Sosa in his smooth left-handed swing. While not as valuable as McGwire due to a smaller player collection, this Sosa card is still coveted for its tie to one of the most exciting seasons in baseball history. It can be found for $8-12.
Roger Clemens (#134) – Arguably the top pitcher of the 1990s, Roger Clemens was in the midst of his dominant run with the Blue Jays in 1998. His card showed the fiery Clemens mid-windup, capturing his intimidating presence on the mound. Clemens’ cards from the late ’80s/early ’90s SkyBox and Upper Deck sets are quite valuable, and this ’98 Topps remains a $10 card for collectors of the Rocket.
Derek Jeter (#166) – The 1998 season was Derek Jeter’s breakout campaign as he led the Yankees back to the playoffs and won the AL Rookie of the Year award. His Topps rookie card from 1996 is one of the most iconic and valuable modern cards ever made. This ’98 card, showing the smooth-fielding Jeter, captures the start of his legendary Yankees career and solidified him as a fan favorite. It remains a $15 card, proving Jeter’s enduring popularity.
Ivan Rodriguez (#186) – “Pudge” Rodriguez was establishing himself as the premier catcher in baseball with the Rangers in 1998. His defensive skills behind the plate were on full display on this card. Rodriguez would go on to have a Hall of Fame career primarily with the Rangers and Tigers. As one of the few star catchers from the 1990s with cards still in demand, this Pudge can be found for $10-12.
Jeff Bagwell (#215) – Houston Astros first baseman Jeff Bagwell was coming off another All-Star season in 1997. His ’98 Topps card featured his smooth left-handed swing that resulted in 449 career home runs. Bagwell remains one of the most underrated stars of the 1990s Steroid Era and his cards hold surprising value. This one can be had for $12-15.
Pedro Martinez (#252) – Arguably the greatest pitcher of the late 1990s, Pedro Martinez was in his electrifying first season with the Boston Red Sox in 1998 after coming over from the Montreal Expos. His card depicted his windup, showing off his blazing fastball and nasty changeup. Martinez’s rookie cards from 1991 Fleer are worth thousands, and this Red Sox Pedro remains a $15-20 card.
Chipper Jones (#288) – Arguous Hall of Famer Chipper Jones was already establishing himself as a perennial All-Star for the Atlanta Braves in 1998, his age 25 season. This card captured the smooth-swinging third baseman in the midst of his left-handed swing. As one of the biggest stars on a dynasty franchise, Jones’ cards from the late ’90s have great longevity. This one can be found for $12-15.
Those were some of the standout 1998 Topps baseball cards that have retained value due to featuring all-time great players who were in the prime of their careers. While it may not be the most valuable vintage set, ’98 Topps captured amazing talent from the late 1990s. Many consider it the last “true” baseball card set before the industry declined. These cards provide affordable opportunities for collectors to own pieces of memorable MLB seasons.
