The 2023 Topps Big League baseball card set continues the tradition of presenting the finest baseball players in engaging photographic portraits. From rising rookies to established superstars, this year’s release memorializes the heroes of America’s favorite pastime. While collecting for enjoyment remains the top priority, certain cards stand out as especially coveted by investors and enthusiasts due to their scarcity, historical significance, or association with elite talent. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable 2023 Topps Big League cards on the hobby’s secondary market.
Perhaps the most sought-after base rookie card is that of catcher Adley Rutschman of the Baltimore Orioles. As the top prospect in baseball and 2019’s number one overall draft pick, “AdleyMania” is in full effect in Baltimore. Solid but unspectacular stats in his 2022 debut have done little to dampen enthusiasm, as collectors know true greatness could be on the horizon. Rutschman’s clean image, sparkling tools, and franchise cornerstone potential make his rookie card a lock to rise in stature and price in the coming years. Graded gem mint examples have already crested the $100 mark, signaling this future superstar may have one of the iconic rookie cards of the 2020s.
Staying in Baltimore, shortstop Gunnar Henderson offers similarly sky-high hopes after a torrid September call-up. The number one O’s prospect burst onto the scene by slashing .321/.374/.633 in 92 at-bats, showcasing 30/30 upside. While greater Sample size is needed, Henderson appears destined for stardom. His card value mirrors the excitement, sitting in the $50-75 range for top-graded copies. As Henderson’s production over a full season is eagerly anticipated, significant gains appear poised for this flashy rookie issue.
In the American League East, Toronto Blue Jays fans await the arrival of touted shortstop prospect Gabriel Moreno. Regarded as one of baseball’s best prospects after hitting .373 in AAA last year, Moreno got his first taste of the show in late 2022. Though results were unspectacular, patience will likely be rewarded with an everyday job in 2023. Moreno possesses elite hit and receive tools that could make his card a long-term winner. Prices around $40 indicate collectors recognize his All-Star potential, if not stardom.
Shifting to the National League, Washington Nationals fans hope to see the blossoming of outfielder Juan Soto after his high-profile trade from the Dodgers. Once considered a generation talent, questions linger after a down 2022 split between L.A. and D.C. At just 24, regression to mean performance seems likely from the switch-hitter. As one of MLB’s most marketable stars, Soto’s card remains a steady bet even after a lost season, trading around $75-100. A return to superstar form could vault this issue back to 2015-bow rookie levels near $1000 long-term.
Other young Nationals generating buzz include touted prospect C.J. Abrams and flame-throwing lefty pitcher Josiah Gray. Acquired with Soto from the Padres and Dodgers respectively, both Abrams ($30-50) and Gray ($15-25) offer long-term breakout appeal if Washington returns to contention status. Elsewhere in the NL East, Atlanta Braves breakout slugger Michael Harris II could follow in the footsteps of Ronald Acuña Jr. with a Maurice Podoloff Trophy winning campaign. Harris’ exciting speed/power combo makes his affordable rookie card around $15 a potential future blue chip.
Switching conferences, reigning AL Cy Young winner and hometown hero Justin Verlander remains a Pied Piper for Houston Astros fans. His renaissance campaign at 39 after Tommy John surgery was nothing short of miraculous, leaving many to wonder if a repeat performance is possible. Verlander maintains star power and on-field success, keeping his base issue near $50-75. Sticking with elite hurlers, Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw may have thrown his last pitch but lives on in collectors’ hearts. His durable career stats and three championships with L.A. maintain values of $75-100 for PSA 10 ros.
In the AL Central, Cleveland Guardians third baseman and budding superstar José Ramírez continues to produce at the plate despite lacking the flashy tools or fame of peers. Ramírez quietly assembles a Hall of Fame career with perennial Gold Glove defense and 30-30 upside. Accordingly, his 2015 Bowman Chrome rookie gem mint prices have settled into the $200-250 area, a strong return for a steady franchise cornerstone still in his prime. Elsewhere in the division, Chicago White Sox slugger Eloy Jiménez hopes to stay healthy in 2023 after twice suffering pectoral tears. When on the field, Jiménez showcases elite power to all fields from the left side. If he can prove durability, his 2018 Bowman Chrome rookie values near $75 could multiply.
In the AL West, Seattle Mariners standouts Julio Rodríguez and Jordan Diaz highlight a bright future. ROY winner Rodríguez dazzled with leadership and highlights as a 21-year-old, taking the league by storm. A true five-tool threat, Rodriguez’s cards rose as high as $500 for PSA 10s before settling in the $300-350 range. More production is expected as he develops. Meanwhile, Diaz emerged with a .284 average and 14 homers after graduation from Tacoma. At just 23, the righty’s immense tools could yield stardom. His affordable non-rookie cards under $20 offer serious breakout potential.
Wrapping up, no discussion of baseball’s future would be complete without mentioning 2023 rookie sensation Shohei Ohtani of the LA Angels. A year after winning AL MVP as a true two-way force, Ohtani tantalized with 34 homers and throwing 100 mph heat as a pitcher. His singular talents and marketability keep prices for his 2018 Topps Chrome Update rookie at astronomical levels, with PSA 10s trading well over $1000. Any signs of improvement or injury avoidance could push values even higher for the most unique star of the modern game.
The 2013 Topps Big League release celebrates baseball’s marquee talents both established and emerging. While collecting for enjoyment remains top priority, savvy investors recognize breakout potential in the cards of Rutschman, Henderson, Harris, Rodriguez, and others profiled. Veteran standouts like Ramirez and Verlander also offer stable long-term appeal. With a full season on deck, the hype and intrigue around 2023 rookie crops should yield growing prices across the board.
