Fanatics Baseball Cards 2023: A New Era of Trading Cards
Fanatics, the dominant licensed sports merchandise company, is preparing to launch its inaugural set of official Major League Baseball trading cards for the 2023 season. This will mark a major change in the baseball card industry, as Fanatics takes over from longtime leader Topps after acquiring exclusive MLB licensing rights starting next year.
Fanatics has been building its sports card business over the past few years through acquisitions of companies like Topps, Panini America, and the exclusive NFL and NBA trading card licenses. Now, with MLB added to their portfolio, Fanatics is poised to become the single largest force in the $1000+ million baseball card market.
The 2023 Fanatics MLB cards will be a significant product launch for the new rights holder. Here’s an early look at what collectors and fans can expect from the first Fanatics baseball card set:
Design and Printing Quality
While specific designs have not been revealed, collectors can likely expect Fanatics to deliver high quality cards that meet or exceed the production standards set by Topps in recent years. Fanatics has emphasized state-of-the-art printing technologies through its other sports licenses, so the 2023 MLB cards will benefit from the company’s focus on crisp images and vibrant colors. Early mockups have hinted at modernized designs that break from tradition in eye-catching ways.
Exclusive Photoshoot and On-Card Autographs
Fanatics is planning exclusive photo shoots with many top MLB stars to produce unique images not seen on any other trading cards. Some of these one-of-a-kind photos are expected to be paired with on-card autographs, providing highly sought-after rookie cards and memorabilia pieces for collectors. Fanatics’ resources and industry relationships will allow them to create a true “flagship” product for the launch.
Extended Rookie Card Class
With Fanatics taking over in a post-season year, their 2023 set will have the unique opportunity to feature rookie cards for many first-year players who debuted in the latter part of the 2022 MLB campaign. This extended rookie class could include breakout playoff performers like Seattle’s Julio Rodriguez. Fanatics will aim to maximize the rookie card content and chase aspect of their inaugural release.
Extended Insert Sets
While base cards will form the backbone of the release, Fanatics is planning numerous insert sets beyond the standard parallels collectors expect. Possibilities being discussed include autograph and memorabilia variants of star rookies and veterans, retro-style “flashback” inserts honoring MLB history, and hit probability or game-used relic cards tied to dramatic 2022 postseason moments. Fanatics wants to deliver exciting chase cards throughout the product line.
Innovative Packaging and Boxes
Early concept designs suggest Fanatics will bring a fresh approach to how their MLB cards are packaged and displayed in retail environments. Box sizes may vary from Topps’ traditional 12-pack boxes to offer alternative break experiences. Digital and augmented reality features are also being explored to enhance interactivity. Environmental sustainability will factor into the packaging materials used.
Robust Digital and NFT Opportunities
While physical cards remain the core business, Fanatics sees digital and NFT technologies expanding collectors’ engagement with the MLB brand in novel ways. Their cards may integrate with virtual trade rooms, highlight reel videos, and other perks through a dedicated Fanatics app. NFT versions of rare cards could unlock exclusive digital meet-and-greets or game-used artifact photos. Technology will power new ways to experience the collection.
Aggressive Marketing and Promotions
No resource will be spared in promoting the launch of the first Fanatics MLB card set. National advertising, exclusive box retailer deals, high-profile autograph signings, social media partnerships, and special convention reveals are all planned to drum up anticipation. Giveaways, contests for rare memorabilia, and box stuffers will reward early customers. Fanatics aims to make 2023 an unforgettable year for baseball card collectors.
When the first Fanatics MLB cards arrive for the 2023 season, the industry will be entering an exciting new era with the dominant force in sports merchandising at the helm. With exclusive rights and cutting-edge technologies, Fanatics is positioned to take baseball card collecting to greater heights while honoring the hobby’s tradition. Collectors can expect innovative, high quality products that maximize the excitement of the upcoming MLB campaign. The future of this multi-billion dollar industry is poised for significant evolution.
