The 1989 Donruss baseball set is considered one of the most iconic and valuable issues from the late 1980s. While the designs were not as flashy or innovative as some other brands at the time, Donruss featured some of the game’s biggest stars who would go on to have Hall of Fame careers. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most noteworthy rookie and veteran cards from the 1989 Donruss set that still attract attention from collectors today.
Ken Griffey Jr. (Card #1) – Widely considered the crown jewel of the 1989 Donruss set, Griffey’s rookie card showcases “The Kid” in his Seattle Mariners uniform. Even at a young age, Griffey’s smooth left-handed swing and effortless athleticism were evident. He would go on to have a storied 22-year career that cemented his place as one of the greats of the game. PSA 10 versions of Griffey’s rookie card have sold for over $100,000 in recent years, showing its enduring popularity. The card features crisp photo quality and clean design elements that have held up extremely well over time.
Greg Maddux (Card #91) – As one of the most dominant pitchers of the 1990s and 2000s, it’s easy to forget that Maddux’s rookie season was in 1986. His 1989 Donruss card, which shows him as a member of the Chicago Cubs, remains highly sought after by collectors interested in Hall of Fame talent. Maddux would go on to win 4 Cy Young Awards and dominate hitters with his pinpoint control and changing speeds for decades. High-grade versions can sell for thousands.
Barry Bonds (Card #99) – Even early in his career with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Bonds’ prodigious power was evident. His ’89 Donruss issue portrays “Barry” in the middle of his powerful left-handed swing. Bonds would go on to smash the single-season and all-time home run records, though his legacy is tainted by performance-enhancing drug use. Clean, high-grade copies still attract five-figure prices due to his all-time great statistical resume.
Tom Glavine (Card #146) – Like Maddux, Glavine’s rookie season was in ’87 but his Donruss rookie is still a popular card. It shows the left-hander pitching for the Atlanta Braves, for whom he would win 305 games and two Cy Youngs over two decades. Glavine exemplified consistency and guile on the mound. High-end copies can reach $1,000 due to his Hall of Fame induction.
Roberto Alomar (Card #150) – Alomar burst onto the scene in 1988 and won the Rookie of the Year award. His smooth, athletic style at second base was evident from the start. The 1989 Donruss issue portrays “Robbie” making a play for the Baltimore Orioles. He would have a career as one of the greatest second basemen ever. High-grade versions remain quite valuable at $500-1000 due to his Hall of Fame career.
Kirby Puckett (Card #167) – Puckett was already an established star for the Minnesota Twins by 1989, having led them to a World Series title in ’87. His fun, energetic style shines through on his Donruss card. Puckett was one of baseball’s most popular players during the late 80s and early 90s boom. Tragedy ended his career early but his legacy lives on through this iconic issue, which has reached over $1000 in PSA 10 condition.
Rickey Henderson (Card #208) – “The Man of Steal” was in his prime with the Oakland A’s in 1989, having just led the AL in stolen bases for the 7th consecutive season. His explosive speed and flair for the dramatic are evident in his Donruss pose. Henderson dramatically redefined the stolen base record and changed the leadoff hitter role, making him one of the most exciting players ever. High-grade versions remain quite collectible at $500-1000.
Nolan Ryan (Card #255) – Even at age 42 in 1989, Ryan was still overpowering hitters with his 100 mph fastball as a member of the Texas Rangers. His Donruss card captures the intensity and windup of the all-time strikeout king. While not a true “rookie” card, Ryan’s iconic status and playing longevity make this a standout in the set. PSA 10s have reached $2000 due to his legend and 7 no-hitters.
Ozzie Smith (Card #269) – As the “Wizard of Oz” entered his age 34 season with the St. Louis Cardinals, he was still dazzling fans with his acrobatic defense at shortstop on a day-to-day basis. His Donruss issue shows him flipping a ball to the pitcher. Smith was arguably the greatest defensive shortstop ever. High grades remain quite collectible at $500-1000.
This overview only touched on some of the headliners from the 1989 Donruss baseball set. Other notable rookie cards included Sandy Alomar Jr., Gregg Jefferies, and Bobby Thigpen. Veterans like Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, and Mike Schmidt also had iconic issues. The designs have aged very well and feature some of the most legendary names in baseball history. For collectors, finding high-grade versions of stars like Griffey, Maddux, Bonds, and Henderson is the holy grail.
