The release of Topps Baseball’s 2023 Series 1 base set marks the beginning of the newest collecting season. As with every year, a small selection of rookie cards and star veteran cards rise above the rest due to increased demand. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most valuable 2023 Topps Series 1 cards collectors will be hunting for.
One of the biggest rookies featured is Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Peña. After winning World Series MVP honors in just his first full MLB season in 2022, Peña (#65) is poised to be one of the game’s top young stars for years to come. While print runs are still large for standard base rookie cards in Series 1, the sharp increase in talent level and name recognition has pushed Peña’s cards above $20 already. More prestige parallels and autographs could climb significantly higher.
Another rookie generating excitement is Los Angeles Dodgers newcomer Miguel Vargas (#66). The 22-year-old had a strong showing in his MLB debut late last season and will look to lock down the starting third base job in 2023. His electric play draws comparisons to Adrian Beltre, giving Vargas legitimate star potential. Like Peña, the low-numbered parallels and autograph versions of Vargas’ rookie card have seen early demand around $25-50.
One of the most prolific rookies of 2022 was Seattle Mariners sensation Julio Rodriguez. While Topps didn’t land Rodriguez’s exclusive cellopack signing, collectors will still flock to his base rookie card (#245). Even in Series 1’s much larger print runs, J-Rod’s star power keeps pushing his standard rookie toward $15-20. His autographs, memorabilia cards and 1-of-1 parallels could be true six-figure hits long term.
Another big name rookie is Detroit Tigers pitcher Jackson Jobe (#255). The 2019 #3 overall draft pick had a breakout season in High-A in 2022 and is one of the game’s elite pitching prospects. Despite lacking MLB experience, strong performances in spring could skyrocket Jobe among the rookie class. His straight from pack cards trade between $10-15 already.
On the veteran side, no cards rival two-way phenom Shohei Ohtani’s appeal. The reigning AL MVP proved he’s must-watch TV every time he takes the mound or comes to the plate for the Los Angeles Angels. Even with larger print runs, Ohtani’s base card (#262) consistently trades above $10-15 based on his singular abilities and mass popularity. Low-numbered versions could reach $1,000+ long term for the face of MLB.
Another vet generating hype is Atlanta Braves superstar Ronald Acuña Jr. (#305) as he looks to return to MVP form in 2023 coming off knee surgery. While he missed significant time the last two seasons, Acuña still has legitimate 40/40 potential and five-tool star appeal when healthy. His cards have remained hot during his rehab, placing his base around the $15 range. Top memorabilia cards could approach five figures long term.
One of the most quietly valuable veterans may be Washington Nationals outfielder Juan Soto (#340) as he starts his first full season since controversially being traded. At just 24, Soto has already established himself as one of the game’s premier pure hitters. If he produces another MVP-caliber season, top versions of his 2023 Topps cards may leap toward $100-200 based on his future superstar projection.
These top rookies, veterans and new stars provide a glimpse at the early big movers in the 2023 Topps Series 1 release. With a full season ahead to further impress, players like Peña, Vargas, Rodriguez, Jobe, Ohtani, Acuña and Soto carry immense potential to breakout and lead the collecting market in 2023. For fans and investors alike, sorting through Series 1 boxes and packs at retail will be highly entertaining given all the emerging talent present. While print runs remain sizable, securing graded gem rookie cards of the game’s next superstars could yield six or even seven figure returns down the line. Whether collecting for enjoyment or investment, 2023 Topps Series 1 again provides a fun launching point for the yearly chase of baseball’s biggest stars.
