The 1989 Donruss baseball card set was one of the most highly anticipated releases of the late 1980s. Following Ken Griffey Jr.’s widely popular rookie card debut in the 1987 Topps set, collectors and investors were eager to see who the next breakout stars might be featured in the newest releases. While 1989 Donruss did not feature any true “rookie” cards of future Hall of Famers, it did highlight several promising young players who would go on to have impressive careers. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable and coveted cards from the 1989 Donruss set.

Ken Griffey Jr. (card #1)
While not technically a rookie card since he had already been featured in the 1987 Topps set, Griffey’s first Donruss card remained highly sought after. Often considered the best all-around player of his generation, collectors knew Griffey had superstar potential even as a young player. His speed, defensive skills and left-handed power bat made him a pleasure to watch. While common today due to the large print run, Griffey’s 1989 Donruss was a hot ticket item upon release and sold for $10-15 in mint condition at the time. In high grades, it still fetches $50-100 today due to Griffey’s legacy as one of the game’s true icons.

Bo Jackson (card #120)
The charismatic Bo Jackson was already a star athlete, having won the Heisman Trophy in 1985. But baseball fans were just starting to appreciate his prodigious raw power and speed on the baseball diamond as well. His ’89 Donruss highlights his rookie season split between the Kansas City Royals and Chicago White Sox. Ever the thrill to watch, Jackson’s cards from this era remain highly collectible today. Near mint copies typically sell in the $75-150 range.

Ken Caminiti (card #157)
As a rookie in 1987, Caminiti showed promise but did not make a huge splash statistically. However, 1988 saw him break out with 22 home runs and an .881 OPS for the Houston Astros. Collectors recognized his potential and ’89 Donruss further fueled enthusiasm. Caminiti played 15 seasons in the majors and won the 1996 NL MVP award. While not his true rookie, the ’89 Donruss shows him at the start of what would become an All-Star career. High grade examples fetch $50-100.

Tom Glavine (card #245)
The 1987 Draft that netted Griffey and Caminiti also landed Atlanta Braves’ ace Tom Glavine. Still just a prospect in 1989, Glavine’s 2nd year Donruss card hints at a Cy Young future. Over 22 big league seasons, Glavine racked up 305 wins and 5-time All-Star selections. He remains one of the best left-handed pitchers in baseball history. With a Hall of Fame plaque now in his possession, Glavine’s rookie cards from ‘87-89 hold significant lasting interest and value, with the ’89 Donruss selling for $75-150.

Bobby Witt (card #329)
Selected first overall in the 1985 draft by the Texas Rangers, Witt seemed poised for stardom. Donruss highlighted his massive power potential in a stylized posing shot. While injuries hampered an otherwise promising career, Witt still hit 142 home runs in the majors. Due to the hype surrounding him as a can’t-miss prospect, his ’89 Donruss remains a coveted piece for Rangers collections. Near mint copies command $50-100.

Greg Maddux (card #411)
Already a seasoned major league pitcher by 1989 with over 100 starts under his belt, Maddux was still just getting warmed up. His stellar control and ability to induce ground balls served as the foundation for a Hall of Fame career spanning 23 seasons. Maddux racked up 355 wins, a 3.16 ERA, and 4 Cy Young awards between the Cubs, Braves and Padres. Highlighting one of baseball’s all-time greats as a young but established talent, his ’89 Donruss brings $75-150 for graded copies.

Ken Griffey Sr. (card #489)
While not particularly valuable in its own right, collectors enjoy Griffey Sr.’s ’89 Donruss card for its connection to his legendary son. By 1989, Griffey Sr. Was in his 14th big league season and still a solid hitter for the Mariners as a role player. Holding both Griffey father-son cards makes for a fun display item. Near mint copies typically sell for $15-30.

Sandy Alomar Jr. (card #508)
A talented catcher who debuted in 1988, Alomar projected as the heir apparent to Indians legend Bob Fisk behind the plate. He did not disappoint, playing 14 seasons mostly with Cleveland while making 6 All-Star teams. Still new to the league in ’89, his Donruss highlights exciting potential not yet fully realized. Near mint copies in PSA/BGS slabs sell between $50-100.

Nolan Ryan (card #611)
Arguably the greatest power pitcher in baseball history, Ryan’s decorated 27-year career was winding down with the Rangers in 1989 at age 42. Still a feared flamethrower, Ryan won his 300th game that season. His final Donruss before retirement pays homage to a legendary career spanning 5,000 strikeouts and 7 no-hitters. Highly collectible for Ryan fans, PSA/BGS copies bring $75-150.

While the 1989 Donruss set lacked any true rookie cards that achieved iconic status, it provided fans an early look at stars like Griffey, Glavine, Maddux, Caminiti and Alomar. Fan favorites Bo Jackson and Nolan Ryan also shone. For dedicated collectors, high quality examples from this set remain worthwhile additions to showcase the promise and talents of some of baseball’s all-time greats.