The 2021 Topps Atlanta Braves baseball card set highlights another exciting season for the franchise as they look to build upon their 2020 NL East division title and make another deep playoff run. The Topps flagship product is the most iconic and collectible card set each year, immortalizing players, moments, and teams for generations of baseball fans and collectors.
The 2021 Braves roster saw some changes from 2020 but maintained much of the core that helped lead them to success. Franchise cornerstones Freddie Freeman, Ronald Acuña Jr., Ozzie Albies, and Max Fried returned to pace the lineup and pitching staff. Freeman has been a model of consistency, batting .300 or better in five straight seasons including a career-high .341 average in 2020. He remains one of the premier hitters in baseball and is immortalized on the Braves’ team leader card in the set.
Albies followed up his 2019 All-Star campaign by hitting 13 home runs in the shortened 2020 season. He and Acuña form one of the most dynamic middle of the order duos in baseball. Acuña is coming off an injury-shortened 2021 but was an NL MVP candidate in 2018 and 2019, showcasing five-tool talents at just 23 years old. His rising star power and highlight-reel plays make him one of the faces of not just the Braves franchise but all of MLB.
On the mound, Max Fried emerged as the staff ace in 2020, going 7-0 with a 2.25 ERA and 0.96 WHIP in the regular season before winning two playoff games. The left-hander continues to develop into an elite starter and is primed for continued success as the Braves’ #1 starter in 2021. Rookie sensation Ian Anderson also joins the rotation after his impressive playoff debuts in 2020 that saw him allow just two earned runs over 15 2/3 innings.
Veteran Charlie Morton was brought in via free agency to further bolster the rotation. The 37-year-old righty is a two-time All-Star and proven postseason performer, having won Game 7 of the 2017 World Series for the Astros. His pedigree and experience adds leadership and depth to a young but talented Atlanta staff.
Other notable returning players featured in the Topps set include slugging first baseman Adam Duvall, versatile infielders Dansby Swanson and Johan Camargo, speedy outfielder Ender Inciarte, and reliable relievers Will Smith, Tyler Matzek, Chris Martin, and A.J. Minter. Rookies like Shea Langeliers, Bryce Ball, and others also receive rookie cards commemorating their MLB debuts.
Topps also highlights key moments from the 2020 season through highlight cards. Acuña’s clutch homers, Freeman’s leadership, Fried and Anderson’s starring playoff performances, and memorable wins like Dansby Swanson’s walk-off homer against the Marlins in Game 1 of the NLDS are all encapsulated. Reliever Mark Melancon, who signed as a free agent in the offseason, receives a card recognizing his 2020 NL saves leader status with the Padres.
Beyond the on-field talent, the 2021 Topps Braves set also pays tribute to the franchise’s rich history. Hall of Famer Hank Aaron receives multiple tribute cards celebrating his life and career. “Hammerin'” Hank remains one of the greatest hitters in baseball history and his impact on the Atlanta Braves organization cannot be overstated. Other historical Braves receive inserts as well, like franchise wins leader Tom Glavine and prolific slugger Chipper Jones.
The 2021 Topps Atlanta Braves baseball cards provide an enticing snapshot of the exciting roster looking to continue the franchise’s new winning ways. Featuring top young stars, accomplished veterans, memorable moments, and the cherished history and legends of the organization, this set has something for any Braves collector seeking to commemorate the 2021 season. As the team takes the field hoping for October baseball once again, these classic Topps cards ensure the players and year will be preserved for future generations of fans.
