The 2023 Topps baseball card release is one of the most anticipated issues in recent memory. With rookies like Julio Rodriguez, Bobby Witt Jr., and Adley Rutschman making huge impacts on their MLB teams as rookies in 2022, collectors are eager to get their hands on cards featuring these young stars from their rookie seasons. After a couple down years in terms of design and photo quality, Topps also made some big changes that have collectors excited for the 2023 release. Here are some of the best rookie and star cards collectors will be chasing from the 2023 Topps baseball set.
Julio Rodriguez – The consensus top rookie in baseball in 2022, Rodriguez had a phenomenal season for the Mariners that was capped off by an All-Star selection and Silver Slugger award. His rookie card will undoubtedly be one of the hottest cards in the set. Topps features a clean photo of Rodriguez at the plate in his Mariners uniform. The photo and design highlight Rodriguez’s skills as both a hitter and fielder that made him such an impactful rookie. With Rodriguez poised for superstardom, this card will be at the top of many collectors’ want lists.
Bobby Witt Jr. – Like Rodriguez, Witt burst onto the MLB scene in 2022 and became a cornerstone for the Royals rebuild. Topps delivers with a sharp action photo of Witt mid-swing, showcasing the raw power that led to 29 home runs as a rookie shortstop. The clean white border and simple design let Witt’s skills shine through. This card has all the makings of another highly sought after modern rookie card that could gain significant value as Witt’s career progresses.
Adley Rutschman – After years of hype as the top prospect in baseball, Rutschman finally made his big league debut with the Orioles in 2022 and showed why the expectations have always been so high. Topps uses a close-up headshot to capture Rutschman’s intense focus and competitive fire. The blue and orange colors pop alongside Rutschman in his Orioles uniform. This card is a must-have for collectors following one of the game’s brightest young stars.
Ronald Acuna Jr. – Returning from a torn ACL that cost him much of the 2022 season, Acuna picked up right where he left off as one of the most electrifying players in baseball. Topps honors Acuna with an action photo running the bases, showcasing the elite speed and athleticism that makes him one of the most exciting watch in the game. The foil border adds a nice premium touch to one of the set’s biggest star cards.
Shohei Ohtani – The first player ever to be selected as an All-Star as both a hitter and pitcher, Ohtani has cemented his status as a true two-way force and the game’s most unique talent. Topps features a close headshot of Ohtani in his Angels uniform, letting his intense, focused expression shine through. The clean white border and simple design let Ohtani’s incredible dual talents as a hitter and ace take center stage on this card.
Aaron Judge – After hitting an AL record 62 home runs, Judge turned down a contract extension from the Yankees and will hit free agency this winter. Topps commemorates Judge’s historic 2022 season with a powerful action shot of the towering outfielder in his mighty home run swing. The blue and grey colors pop alongside Judge in his Yankees road greys. This card will be a must-have for any Yankees or Aaron Judge collector.
Spencer Strider – The Braves flamethrowing rookie phenom exploded onto the scene in 2022 with a 2.67 ERA and 202 strikeouts in 131.2 innings pitched. Topps captures Strider mid-delivery, showcasing the deceptive mechanics and electric stuff that made him one of the best rookie pitchers in baseball. The clean white border and simple design let Strider’s skills as a pitcher shine through on this must-have modern rookie card.
Twofer – Topps pays homage to the all-time greats with a dual card featuring a headshot of Hank Aaron on one side and a action shot of Barry Bonds on the other side. The gold foil adds a premium touch to honor two of the game’s home run kings over their incredible careers. This unique dual card will be a standout in any collection paying tribute to baseball history.
Base – While collectors will chase stars and rookies, the base set remains the foundation of any Topps release. Topps went with a clean and classic design featuring full body player shots in home and away uniforms on a white border. Photos and production quality are sharply improved over recent years. Collecting the full base set remains an achievable goal that can be built on and appreciated for years.
Topps continues to deliver the definitive rookie cards and stars of today’s game while also paying homage to the legends of baseball’s past. With sharp photography, clean designs, and modern parallels and short prints, the 2023 release has something for collectors of all levels. Rookies like Rodriguez, Witt, and Rutschman anchor one of the strongest modern rookie classes in years. With continued improvements and a strong lineup of veteran stars and legends, Topps baseball remains the bellwether release for collectors everywhere.
