Xander Bogaerts is a star shortstop for the Boston Red Sox who has developed into an elite player in Major League Baseball. As his star and production has continued to rise since debuting in 2013, so too has the interest in collecting Xander Bogaerts baseball cards from throughout his career. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the top Bogaerts cards that card collectors seek.
One of the obvious starting points for any baseball card collection focusing on Bogaerts’ career would be his rookie cards from 2013. That year, Bogaerts made his MLB debut with the Red Sox in August after developing quickly through their farm system. Some of the key early Bogaerts rookie cards includes those from flagship sets like Topps, Panini Prizm, and Bowman.
The Topps Xander Bogaerts 2013 rookie card is one of the most coveted in his collection due to Topps’ status as the longest-running and most iconic baseball card company. This simple but effective design highlights Bogaerts’ stats and photo from his rookie season in a classic vertical layout. With his star rising soon after, this affordable rookie card remains a key piece for any collector.
From Panini’s popular Prizm brand, another sought-after Bogaerts rookie is the 2013 Prizm card. Featuring refractive foil patches mimicking a rookie “prizm” in sports, this horizontal card uses a photo and design that stands out from the standard baseball card look. Panini Prizm cards have developed a strong following among both players and collectors in recent years.
Then there is Bogaerts’ Bowman Chrome rookie card from 2013, considered one of the premier prospecting/rookie card brands. The chrome parallel version of this card holds extra cachet due to the shiny refractory nature of the cardboard stock. As Bogaerts developed into a star, early Bowman Chrome versions commanded healthy prices on the secondary market.
Besides those flagship rookie cards, several notable variations and parallels emerged that hold added value. Low serial numbered versions, like the 2013 Topps Chrome Red Refractor /50, have become quite scarce and pricey. Similarly, red and black parallel variations of 2013 Bowman cards demand premiums. Autograph and memorabilia cards from Bogaerts’ early years also gained value as he excelled.
Moving beyond the rookie season, Bogaerts cards from 2014-2015 provide a look at his development. Notable successes like his 2014 All-Star selection resulted in commemorative issue cards by Topps, Upper Deck, and others. Base cards showcased statistical improvements that foretold his ascension. Parallels and serial numbered versions from prominent brands held collector attention.
Bogaerts fully broke out offensively in 2016, hitting .294 with career highs in home runs and RBI while finishing third in AL MVP voting. Topps and others recognized this with special “breakout” themed cards. Finest and Topps Chrome refractors from that prime season hold substantial value today. Autograph cards signed around this time also gained cachet due to his elevated play.
The next year, 2017 was truly a banner one as Bogaerts helped lead the Red Sox to the World Series title. Naturally, this triggered a surge of interest in cards commemorating that championship team and season. Topps released various “Champions” parallel cards highlighting Bogaerts’ contribution. Limited serial number parallels from that set have become especially coveted trophies.
2018-2019 saw Bogaerts settle in as a perennial all-star and reliable veteran leader for the Red Sox. While less dramatic or rookie oriented than his early years, cards from these seasons provide a record of his consistency as a star. Serial numbered parallels remain worthwhile especially from elite brands. Autographs signed during home games received greater demand.
Bogaerts’ career reached another high in 2020 when he helped guide the Red Sox to the playoffs despite the shortened season. Topps Chrome proved a standout that year with its flashy refractors. But perhaps no card gained more acclaim than Bogaerts’ Finest auto patch card featuring dual swatches and serial numbered to 2020 copies. Such one-of-a-kind memorabilia cards captured the essence of his peak years.
Collections following a player over their whole career offer unparalleled enjoyment and investment potential. With Bogaerts still in his prime entering 2021, there remain many possibilities for iconic cards commemorating milestones and accomplishments down the road.SerialNumbered parallels of flagship issue like Topps, parallels from brands like Bowman and Panini, and autograph/memorabilia cards will likely gain the most collector interest if he continues playing at an all-star level.
In summary, Xander Bogaerts’ continued success over nearly a decade in Boston has cemented him as not just a star player but also a valued subject among baseball card collectors. From affordable early rookies to investment-grade serial numbered parallels and autograph cards, a dedicated Bogaerts PC provides enjoyment and growth potential. With his prime still unfolding, the best Bogaerts cards may be yet to come for eager collectors following along with his accomplished career.
