The 1988 Score baseball card set was one of the most iconic and valuable sets of the late 1980s. With 792 total cards issued, the 1988 Score set featured some of the biggest stars and rookie cards of that era. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout cards from this classic release.
One of the most sought-after rookie cards from 1988 Score is Ken Griffey Jr. As one of the best players of his generation, Griffey lived up to the hype around his rookie card. While he doesn’t sport the iconic backwards hat in his rookie card photo like in some other sets, his Score rookie card remains highly coveted by collectors. In pristine mint condition, a Griffey Jr. 1988 Score rookie card can fetch thousands of dollars.
Another tremendous rookie to debut in 1988 Score was Mark McGwire. Prior to his record-breaking home run chase alongside Sammy Sosa in 1998, McGwire was already showing signs of his prodigious power. His rookie card isn’t quite as valuable as Griffey’s, but still holds value in the hundreds of dollars for a gem mint 10 grade card. McGwire went on to smash plenty of long balls after debuting in the majors in 1987.
One of the most iconic cards from any ’80s set is the Nolan Ryan card where he is pictured windmilling a pitch for the Houston Astros. This powerful action shot exemplified Ryan’s dominance on the mound as a power pitcher. Even at age 41 during the 1988 season, Ryan continued to overmatch hitters with his blazing fastball. High grade versions of this eye-catching Ryan card can sell for over $100.
Another standout card from 1988 Score is the Kirby Puckett card where he is pictured batting from the left side of the plate. Puckett was already an All-Star caliber player by 1988 and would go on to have a stellar career primarily with the Minnesota Twins. His cards from the late ’80s hold nice value for collectors, especially for above average condition cards.
Rickey Henderson also has an iconic card from the 1988 Score set where he is pictured stealing a base for the Oakland A’s. As arguably the greatest leadoff hitter and base stealer of all-time, Henderson’s cards always depict his elite speed. His 1988 Score card captures the essence of his dynamic play and sells for $30-50 in top grades.
Perhaps the most valuable regular card from 1988 Score belongs to Donruss favorite son Roger Clemens. Pictured pitching for the Boston Red Sox, Clemens’ intimidating delivery is on full display. “The Rocket” won the AL Cy Young and MVP Award in 1986, so he was already a superstar arm by 1988. High grade Clemens cards can sell for over $150 due to his legendary career.
While stars like Barry Bonds, Wade Boggs, and Ozzie Smith are also well-represented in the 1988 Score set, one of the most visually stunning cards belongs to Chicago Cubs third baseman Keith Moreland. On his card, Moreland is pictured leaping high to snare a line drive. The dramatic action shot makes for one of the 1988 set’s true gems in the eyes of many collectors.
Rookies like Tom Glavine, Gregg Olson, and David Wells also made their cardboard debuts in 1988 Score. While they may not have the name recognition or value of stars like Griffey Jr. and McGwire, their rookie cards still hold nostalgic value for collectors. Even commons from the set sell for $1-2 due to the classic Score design.
The 1988 Score baseball card set endures as one of the most historically significant releases from the junk wax era. Future Hall of Famers, huge stars, and valuable rookies are all represented in the 792 card checklist. Cards like Ken Griffey Jr., Roger Clemens, Nolan Ryan, and Rickey Henderson lead the way as some of the most recognizable and desirable from the entire set. The dramatic photography and classic Score design also contribute to the 1988 edition’s lasting nostalgic appeal for collectors.
