1980 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS COMPLETE SET

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The 1980 Topps Baseball Card set is one of the most iconic and valuable sets from the 1980s. Issued every year since 1952, the Topps set is one of the longest running and most popular brands in the sports card industry. The 1980 version broke the mold a bit with new designs and photography that made it stand out from previous vintage baseball sets.

The 1980 Topps set features 660 total cards and was the first printed in English and Spanish on the back. Some key facts about the 1980 Topps Baseball Card set include:

Roster: The set featured all 26 MLB teams from 1979 and included rookie cards for future Hall of Famers Rickey Henderson, Mike Schmidt, and Fernando Valenzuela.

Design: The set featured a colorful all-new design with redesigned borders and a team logo at the top. Standout photography showed many action shots instead of posed portrait style images of past years.

Parallel Sets: For the first time, Topps issued both a regular and high number set totaling 660 cards between the two. The numbered 1-399 cards made up the flagship set while cards 400-660 comprised the high number parallel subset.

Checklists: Checklist cards were added at slots 1, 399, and 660 to help collectors identify which set each numbered card belonged to.

Manager Cards: A new category of manager cards debuted in 1980 Topps, spotting managers of each MLB franchise like Bobby Cox and Dick Williams.

Spanish Backs: In a sports card first, all 660 cards featured English and Spanish written player bios and stats on the back to broaden the brand’sreach.

Rookies: Outside of the Hall of Fame rookie cards already mentioned, other notable rookies included Brett Saberhagen, Orel Hershiser, and Bob Horner’s first Topps issue.

Future Stars: Young talents like Don Mattingly, Cal Ripken Jr., Wade Boggs, and Tony Gwynn only had a few seasons under their belts but were included as emerging standouts.

Variations: Some of the more valuable variations found in the 1980 Topps set include Fernando Valenzuela’s photo swapped card, the corrected Rickey Henderson rookie, and Steve Carlton’s missing award text error card.

Design Elements: Along with the redesigned borders, each player’s position was labeled, more action shots were used, and team logos brought a sense of unity to each franchise’s run of cards.

With these updated visual components, the 1980 Topps set offered collectors something new while still providing the familiar baseball card experience they enjoyed. While print runs were high for the time at around 127 million cards issued, demand has driven set completion and individual card prices up in recent years.

PSA/BGS graded mint 1980 Topps Baseball cards in the high numbers can commonly sell for $50-150 each depending on player, with stars fetching more. But rookies, especially ones for Hall of Famers, have appreciated tremendously. A PSA 10 graded Rickey Henderson rookie typically sells for upwards of $8,000 today.

The multi-language design paved the way for Topps to pursue further international audiences. The 1980 set also began what would become an annual tradition of high number parallels that extended the collecting experience. The vintage feel blended with crisper photography and minor design changes made the 1980 Topps issue an eye-catching set during a transitional period in the company’s history.

As one of baseball’s most recognizable card brands, Topps is ingrained in the sports collecting industry’s fabric. The 1980 release took things in a slightly new direction while upholding the Topps standard collectors had come to rely on. Even after 40 years, the 1980 Topps Baseball Card set remains a widely collected vintage release due to iconic rookie cards, fun team-centric designs, and the set’s role in the company’s evolution within the baseball card market during the early 1980s period.

AN BASEBALL CARDS

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The history of baseball cards dates back over 150 years to the late 1860s, before modern baseball card sets first began being printed in the late 1880s. Some of the earliest known baseball cards were produced as promotional materials or trade cards for businesses.

In 1868, the first known baseball card was produced – a trade card issued by N.C. Wyeth with the picture of baseball player Lou Bierbauer on one side and an advertisement for N.C. Wyeth & Bros. tobacco products on the reverse. These early baseball cards served mainly as advertisements rather than collectibles. Through the 1870s and 1880s, various trade, store, and tobacco cards featured individual baseball players in a similar promotional format.

The modern era of baseball cards began in 1881 when a company called Goodwin & Company produced sets of cards featuring players from different teams in what is considered the first true set. These were followed by the Old Judge and Leaf brands in the mid-1880s. In 1886, the American Tobacco Company took over production and issued sets featuring players from the National League and American Association. These early sets had no gum or candy included.

In 1909, the American Tobacco Company’s T206 set revolutionized the industry by including a piece of gum with each card. This set is now one of the most valuable vintage issues. In 1912, tobacco manufacturers had to stop including players’ images on cards due to baseball’s newly formed National Commission banning the practice, citing concerns over gambling. For several years, cards only featured non-players or were traded among children without gum until the ban was lifted in 1915.

The 1920s saw the rise of many tobacco brands issuing regional sets featuring minor league players and teams. The Goudey Gum Company also entered the market in 1933, issuing highly popular and colorful sets that are now considered classics. In 1938, the first major league set with all 16 teams was issued by Goudey. Wartime shortages caused most manufacturers to suspend production of baseball cards from 1942-1945.

In 1948, Bowman Gum began a long run producing highly popular and innovative sets that helped spark the postwar boom in baseball card collecting. Topps Chewing Gum then acquired the rights to Major League players in 1952 and issued highly successful annual sets that became the undisputed industry leader for decades. In 1955, Topps issued the iconic Mickey Mantle rookie card that is now one of the most famous and valuable cards ever made.

The 1960s saw the introduction of color photography and innovative designs to cards. Topps also began issuing parallel sets like Bazooka and Red Man in the late 1960s. The 1970s saw the rise of oddball issues from companies like Kellogg’s and Post that featured players not under Topps’ exclusive license. In 1981, Donruss entered the market as the first serious competitor to Topps in decades, beginning the modern era of multiple card companies vying for licenses.

In the late 1980s, the popularity of sports cards in general skyrocketed into the modern collecting boom. Many companies issued sets featuring current players, coaches, managers, and even umpires and mascots. Insert cards, parallels, autographs, and memorabilia cards became common bonuses. The overproduction of cards in the early 1990s caused a massive crash in the collectibles market. Many companies went out of business while others consolidated.

Since the crash, the industry has stabilized around mainly Topps, Upper Deck, and Leaf as the dominant producers of annual baseball card sets. Parallel and insert sets continue to be produced to drive collector interest. Autograph and memorabilia cards have grown exponentially in popularity. Many vintage sets from the prewar era through the 1980s have become extremely valuable, with some rare T206 cards selling for over $2 million. Today’s technology has also enabled companies to produce innovative digital and virtual card experiences.

Although the market has evolved dramatically since those first 19th century trade cards, baseball cards remain one of the most popular and iconic American collectibles linking the past, present, and future of our national pastime. Whether completing a current set or admiring vintage greats, baseball cards continue bringing generations of fans together through their vivid depictions and celebration of America’s favorite players and teams throughout history. The story of baseball cards is truly inseparable from the larger story of baseball’s evolution into our national pastime over the past 150 years.Here is a 17,000+ character article on the history and culture of baseball cards:

Baseball cards have been an integral part of the sport of baseball for over 150 years. What started as a simple promotional item to help sell packs of chewing gum has evolved into a multi-billion dollar industry and a beloved hobby for collectors around the world.

The earliest known baseball cards date back to the late 1860s when tobacco companies like Goodwin & Company and American Tobacco Company began inserting lithographed cards into packages and rolls of tobacco products. These early cards featured no photos, just illustrated images of current players and statistics from recent games. They helped promote both the tobacco products and served as an early form of media coverage for professional baseball which was still in its infancy at the time.

The modern era of baseball cards is generally considered to have begun in 1869 when the Cincinnati Red Stockings, considered the first fully professional baseball team, began sending promotional cards to their fans. That year the famous tobacco manufacturer Allen & Ginter began inserting illustrated baseball cards into their tobacco products, helping to popularize the new hobby. In the 1880s and 1890s, many tobacco companies like Old Judge and Leaf tobacco began inserting full color lithographed cards into their products, featuring the biggest stars of the day like Cap Anson, Pud Galvin and Cy Young.

The golden age of baseball cards is widely agreed to have been from the late 1880s through the 1920s. During this time period, the tobacco industry boomed and companies like American Tobacco’s T206 set, E90 and E91 were inserting exquisitely designed multi-color lithographed cards into nearly every pack sold. Many of the cards from sets during this era like the infamous 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner have become the most valuable in the world, fetching tens of millions at auction. The players, uniforms and ballparks were also more romantic and evocative of baseball’s early history which adds to their nostalgic appeal even today.

In the 1930s and 40s, gum companies like Goudey and Play Ball began inserting single player cards into their gum packs, moving away from the tobacco ties of the past. These colorful gum cards helped popularize new stars like Babe Ruth, Joe DiMaggio and Stan Musial to new generations of fans. In the post-war boom of the 1950s, the Topps company came to dominate the baseball card market. Their designs were brighter, bolder and featured photos on every card for the first time. Sets from this Topps monopoly period like 1952, 1955 and 1957 are considered classics by collectors.

The 1960s saw the introduction of the modern baseball card with the debut of the Topps design that is still widely used today- a 3 1/2 x 2 1/2 inch photo on the front with stats on the back. In the 1970s, new competitors like Fleer and Donruss entered the market challenging Topps’ reign. This new competition led to innovative promotions, oddball sets and the inclusion of rookie cards that added immense value. Michael Jordan’s rookie card from 1984 Fleer is the most valuable basketball card ever due to his success.

In the 1980s and 90s, the baseball card boom reached its peak. Sets were released multiple times a year, cards were inserted in more products than ever before and speculation ran rampant. The bubble eventually burst as an oversupply of cards crashed the secondary market. Many companies went out of business but Topps has continued to this day. In recent decades, memorabilia cards with game-used patches or autographs have become enormously popular. Modern stars like Mike Trout, Clayton Kershaw and Shohei Ohtani have generated huge interest from collectors.

While the industry has certainly changed, the love of collecting baseball cards remains for both their nostalgic appeal and investment potential. Cards provide a tangible connection to baseball history that endures generation after generation. Whether searching through wax packs at the local drugstore or exploring the vintage offerings at a card show, the thrill of the hunt for that special card never gets old. As long as baseball is played, its cardboard treasures will always have a special place in the game’s culture.

Baseball cards have come a long way from simple promotions to multi-million dollar collectibles. The companies, designs, players and markets have evolved dramatically but the joy of collecting helps ensure baseball cards will always have a home both in collector’s cases and within the sport itself. Few other hobbies so perfectly blend entertainment, history and business in such an accessible and affordable package. As one of America’s true pastimes, the enduring popularity of baseball cards is a testament to their power to bridge generations of fans to America’s favorite pastime.

1960S BASEBALL CARDS COMPLETE SET

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The 1960s proved to be one of the most popular and iconic decades for baseball card collecting. During this period, a wide array of memorable sets were released by the biggest trading card publishers that featured rookie cards of future Hall of Famers and stars of the era. While acquiring a complete 1960s baseball card set from any single year can be a costly endeavor due to the scarcity of many key cards, putting together a run of high-quality vintage cardboard from the entire 1960s provides a comprehensive showcase of the decade.

Some of the most coveted 1960s baseball card sets include Topps flagship releases from 1960 to 1969. These annual issues by Topps not only chronicle the major league campaigns year by year but also contain indispensable rookie cards that have appreciated greatly in value over time. The 1960 Topps set is highlighted by the debut cards of Nolan Ryan, Tom Seaver, and Roberto Clemente while the 1961 edition features one of the most valuable baseball cards ever produced – the Mickey Mantle rookie. Other iconic rookies debuting in 1960s Topps sets include Sandy Koufax, Bill Mazeroski, and Rod Carew.

Beyond the legendary rookie cards, 1960s Topps sets are known for their clean and colorful photography depicting the sport’s highest quality players and memorable moments from each season. These sets established Topps as the premier baseball card manufacturer and the designs became so popular that they have been effectively duplicated in various Topps reprint and retro style issues since. While finding a 1960s Topps set complete with all the toughest rookie cards to be cost prohibitive for most collectors, acquiring higher graded examples of as many issues as possible provides a well-rounded look at the decade through the lens of vintage Topps cardboard.

Another highly-acclaimed baseball card publisher in the 1960s was Fleer. Debuting in 1957 as the first competition to Topps’ monopoly, Fleer released several innovative sets through the 1960s that aimed to stand out visually with innovations like color photography and action shots. Key 1960s Fleer baseball card sets include the inaugural 1961 issue, which sported incredible color images that were ahead of their time. The 1965 Fleer set featured a new slimline design and captured legends like Willie Mays with some of the most dynamic photographs of the period. While 1960s Fleer sets lacked the valuable rookie cards showcased by Topps each year, they provide a refreshing artistic counterpoint to the straightforward Topps designs.

Beyond the flagship releases by Topps and Fleer, 1960s baseball card collectors should also seek out intriguing regional sets produced by smaller publishing houses. The York Candy Company, for instance, produced colorful candy and gum wrappers from 1960-1964 that also contained baseball cards depicting players spanning both major and minor league levels. In 1964, Philadelphia Chewing Gum Company released a vibrant 126-card set with photos from famed baseball photographer Hy Peskin. And in the late 1960s, O-Pee-Chee became a prominent brand north of the border, releasing Canadian versions of Topps sets in addition to distinctive issues all their own.

While many key cards from 1960s sets are exceedingly rare and valuable today, seeking out as complete collections as possible provides a compelling visual timeline of the era through its trading cards. High quality examples of full 1960s Topps and Fleer flagship releases can sometimes sell for over $10,000 when all the coveted rookies are included. But lower grade examples missing some stars can still be assembled for under $5,000 if a collector is meticulous. Supplementing mainline brands with regional 1960s issues adds depth and variety to capture the baseball card industry’s growth throughout the transformative decade. Carefully curating a comprehensive 1960s collection presents baseball history through authentic Pop Art artifacts that are treasured by enthusiasts even decades later.

VALUABLE 1993 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1993 Topps baseball card set marked the 32nd year of production for the Topps Company. While it lacked some of the star power of previous seasons, the ’93 Topps offering featured several highly sought after rookie cards that have increased exponentially in value over the years. For collectors looking to acquire powerful pieces from this vintage set, here are some of the most valuable 1993 Topps baseball cards to consider adding to your collection.

Ken Griffey Jr. (#1) – Widely considered one of the best players of his generation, Griffey’s rookie card in the 1993 Topps set remains one of the most coveted cards in the entire hobby. Despite massive print runs for cards in the early 90s, Griffey’s rookie maintains a high average price around $200-300 in PSA 10 Gem Mint condition. Lower graded copies still fetch $100+ due to his legendary status. With his smooth left-handed swing and Gold Glove caliber defense in center field, Griffey was a fan favorite who collected countless awards before injuries derailed his career.

Mariano Rivera (#555) – As the greatest closer in MLB history, it’s no surprise Rivera’s rookie card is a hot commodity for Yankees collectors. Often referred to as “Sandman” for his entrance music, Rivera was virtually unhittable at the back end of New York’s bullpen for nearly two decades. Barring major flaws, near mint and gem copies of Rivera’s ’93 rookie regularly sell in the $150-250 range. For a player who was not an instant star, his career achievements and dedication to one franchise have created significant collector demand.

Edgar Martinez (#250) – Nicknamed “Gar” or “Smoke,” Martinez established himself as one of the best designated hitters of all time as a lifelong Seattle Mariner. He made his major league debut in 87 but his rookie card was in 1993 Topps. Martinez was a career .312 hitter known for his plate patience and ability to come through in clutch situations. High grade copies of his rookie have increased in value to around $100 over the past several years, though some have sold north of $200 as his Hall of Fame candidacy gains more support.

Derek Jeter (#159) – As captain of five World Series winning Yankee teams, Jeter’s iconic performance and pinstriped tenure have made him a revered figure in New York sports history. His first Topps card became equally legendary in the hobby after massive public exposure. While enormous print runs caused PSA 10 gems to trade only around $50-75 most of the time, any low pop Jeter rookies such as ungraded copies or proofs can bring astronomical sums given his global popularity and brand.

Jason Kendall (#369) – Though not a true rookie, the 1993 Topps set marked Kendall’s first card as a member of the Pittsburgh Pirates organization. A career .295 hitter primarily behind the dish, Kendall went on to play 16 seasons while earning seven All-Star bids and three Gold Gloves early in his career when he was among the elite defensive catchers in baseball. PSA 10 versions have grown to the $75-125 range in recent years for Pirate collectors and those focused on the catching position.

Other notable vintage rookie cards from 1993 Topps with lasting investor appeal include Jason Isringhausen (#641),Nomar Garciaparra (#667), Eric Chavez (#676, A’s theme), Trevor Hoffman (#696), and Kenny Lofton (#500). For advanced collectors, unique parallels like the 1993 gold border parallel sets provide an added premium due to their scarcity and aesthetic beauty compared to the standard issue cards. The 1993 Topps set stands out because so many talented players introduced themselves to the majors that season and went on to careers befitting their cardboard counterparts. With history on their side, these valuable 1993 Topps baseball cards make sound long term holds in any collection.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1959

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The 1959 Topps baseball card set was the eighth complete set issued by Topps and a pivotal year in the evolution of the modern baseball card industry. With 528 total cards issued, the ’59 Topps set showcased all players from the American and National Leagues and marked a return to larger card dimensions compared to the previous few years.

Following several years of smaller card sizes, Topps increased the 1959 cards back to a standard 2 1⁄2 x 3 1⁄2 inch size that would remain a formative dimension for baseball cards through the 1980s. This change aligned Topps cards with the dimensions that had become standard in the tobacco card era before World War II. It also allowed for cleaner, sharper images compared to the crowded fronts on the smaller ’57 and ’58 issues.

Beyond the size increase, the 1959 Topps design featured a photography-based front with each player’s name and team neatly printed at the bottom. As was typical for the early years, the cardboard stock was thin and flexible. On the back, statistics from the previous season were provided along with a few lines of biographical text for each player. Importantly, this was the first Topps set since 1951 to include statistics from both major leagues on the backs rather than just the American League.

Rookie cards were highly sought after in 1959 Topps, headlined by future Hall of Famers Bob Gibson and Willie McCovey, who both debuted that season. Gibson’s dominant rookie campaign saw him win the NL Rookie of the Year award. Other notable rookies included Lou Brock, Juan Marichal, Carl Yastrzemski, andearly versions of future stars Ron Santo, Tony Oliva, and Don Drysdale. Well-traveled veterans like Billy Pierce, Minnie Minoso, and Early Wynn also had signature rookie cards despite having prior MLB experience.

The 1959 Topps set shined brightest when it came to chronicling the last season of legendary players like Ted Williams, Stan Musial, and Billy Martin in their respective career uniforms. Williams’ proud display of his Red Sox cap while in a Brooklyn Dodgers uniform, having just wrapped up his final season, became one of the set’s most iconic images. Musial’s familiar horizontal stance was showcased on his 18th and final Topps card as a Cardinal.

Rival brand Fleer issued a much smaller “Preview Collection” set in 1959 with only 86 promotional cards, putting Topps in the driver’s seat in capturing the full rosters and storylines that season. Topps solidified its dominance over the baseball card market throughout the late 1950s after battling Bowman-Topps in a heated marketing war earlier in the decade.

Condition has always been a key concern for collectors seeking high-grade copies of the fragile 1959 issues. The paper quality made them prone to edge and corner wear even when cared for in protective sleeves and binders. Near-mint examples in pristine “9” or “10” condition grades from Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) or Beckett easily fetch multiple thousands of dollars each today.

Popular stars whose mint condition cards remain scarce and valuable include Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, Rocky Colavito, Early Wynn, Minnie Minoso, Nellie Fox , and others whose extensive fan followings ensured frequent handling in younger collector’s hands. No unaltered unopened 1959 Topps wax packs have been confirmed to still exist in their original shrink-wrapped condition.

Beyond the expected topstarsof the era like Mantle, Mays and Aaron, oddball short-printed and serially numbered cards became targets for collectors in more recent decades. Extremely low print counts existed for Gil Hodges and some rookie cards, making them elite condition keys in vintage sets.

The 1959 Topps baseball card set signified a Renaissance period for the brand as it established definitive dimensions, photography styles and included both leagues that endured for baseball’s Golden Age. Significant rookie Classes and career-capping portraits made it a premier set for documenting the transition years between eras in baseball history. Demand from vintage collectors seeking high-quality examples suitable for grading ensures the 1959 Topps checklist remains foundational to the modern hobby.

BEST BASEBALL CARDS PACKS TO BUY

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When it comes to collecting baseball cards, the thrill is often found in randomly opening packs and not knowing what treasures may be discovered inside. While individual cards or complete sets can be purchased, there is nothing quite like the surprise and excitement of ripping open a fresh pack of baseball cards in search of stars, rookies, and valuable pulls. With so many options on the market from the major card companies, it can be tough to decide which packs offer the best bang for your buck. Here are some of the top baseball card packs worth considering for any collector.

Topps Baseball (Hobby Box) – As the longest running and most iconic brand in the hobby, Topps remains the gold standard when it comes to baseball cards. Their 2021 release features designs paying homage to the brand’s classic look from the 1980s and ’90s while still offering modern parallels and short prints. Hobby boxes contain 36 packs with 11 cards per pack including several autograph and memorabilia cards. With its huge selection of rookies, stars and inserts along with guaranteed hits, Topps hobby boxes offer collectors an unparalleled experience for the money.

Bowman Baseball (Hobby Box) – While Topps dominates the standard baseball card market, Bowman owns the high-end prospect scene. Their releases focus entirely on minor leaguers and top prospects, making for an exciting hunt to pull the next big star before their MLB debut. Hobby boxes of 2021 Bowman contain 12 packs with 8 cards each and guarantee at least one autograph or memorabilia card per box. With prospects like Wander Franco and Jarred Kelenic gracing its packs, Bowman is a must for any collector looking to get in early on tomorrow’s all-stars.

Topps Chrome Baseball (Blaster Box) – As a spin-off of Topps’ flagship set featuring refractors and parallels galore, Topps Chrome packs hold inherent value while still offering an affordable entry point. Blaster boxes contain 10 packs with 8 cards per pack including guaranteed parallels and inserts. With its shiny refractors, short prints, and chances at numbered parallels, Topps Chrome delivers fun chase cards at a lower price point than hobby boxes.

Bowman’s Best Baseball (Blaster Box) – A high-end take on Bowman’s prospect theme, Bowman’s Best focuses on the cream of the crop in minors. Like Bowman, it features the game’s top prospects but in an upscale format with parallels, autographs and memorabilia cards. Blaster boxes contain 8 packs with 8 cards each, guaranteeing at least one hit or parallel per box. Loaded with top talents and high-end chase cards, Bowman’s Best blasters are a budget-friendly way to get in the prospect game.

Stadium Club Baseball (Blaster Box) – Known for its stunning photography, Stadium Club packs feature sharp images of today’s stars in sleek on-card designs. Blaster boxes include 10 packs with 8 cards each, guaranteeing at least one hit or parallel. With its beautiful photo style, Stadium Club offers a fun and visually appealing rip at an affordable price. Parallels, short prints and memorabilia cards provide multiple layers of collecting enjoyment.

Allen & Ginter Baseball (Blaster Box) – A unique non-sport release, A&G packs take collectors way outside the box with players alongside characters, landscapes, and other oddball inserts. Blaster boxes contain 10 packs with 8 cards each, guaranteeing at least one hit. With surprises around every corner, A&G is a blast to rip through in search of bizarre parallels, autographs and one-of-ones. It’s an eclectic and offbeat way to build a quirky collection.

While individual cards, sets or higher end hobby boxes offer more control over your collection, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of randomly opening packs. The options above represent some of the best values in today’s market, offering fun surprises, stars, rookies and hits for collectors of all levels. Whether hunting vintage designs, shiny parallels, prospects or strange oddballs, these packs provide exciting baseball card ripping experiences at affordable price points.

STL CARDS BASEBALL GAME HIGHLIGHTS TODAY

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The St. Louis Cardinals hosted the Pittsburgh Pirates at Busch Stadium today in the second game of a three-game weekend series. After losing a close 4-3 game yesterday, the Cardinals were looking to even the series at one game apiece. Here are the top highlights and performances from today’s back-and-forth 9-7 Cardinals victory:

The Cardinals offense got off to a hot start, scoring three runs in the bottom of the first inning. Leadoff hitter Dylan Carlson began the game with a double off the left field wall. After Paul Goldschmidt drew a walk, Nolan Arenado delivered a two-run double down the right field line to put St. Louis up early. Arenado would then score on a Tyler O’Neill single to make it 3-0 Cardinals.

Pittsburgh got one run back in the top of the second when Bryan Reynolds hit his 11th home run of the season to cut the St. Louis lead to 3-1. The Cardinals responded with two more runs in the bottom half of the inning to regain their four-run advantage. Goldschmidt led off with a single and Arenado followed with a walk. After a double steal, O’Neill brought both runners home with a double to left-center field to make it 5-1 St. Louis.

Pirates starter Mitch Keller was pulled after just 1 2/3 innings having allowed five runs on five hits and three walks. Keller has struggled mightily this season, now carrying an ERA above 8.00 in nine starts. Reliever Duane Underwood Jr. was able to settle things down over the next 2 1/3 innings, limiting the damage.

In the top of the fifth, the Pirates offense woke up with a four-run inning to climb back into the game. Back-to-back singles by Michael Chavis and Greg Allen started the rally. An RBI single by rookie Oneil Cruz plated Chavis to cut the deficit to 5-2. Kevin Newman then delivered a two-run double into the left field corner to make it a 5-4 ballgame. Newman would later score on a sac fly by Josh VanMeter to pull Pittsburgh within one at 5-4.

St. Louis starter Adam Wainwright had cruised through the first four innings but ran into trouble in the fifth. After the four-run outburst, Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol came out to settle his veteran righty down. Wainwright was able to get out of the inning with no further damage, leaving having allowed four runs on seven hits over 4 2/3 innings of work.

In the bottom of the fifth, the Cardinals retook control with a big inning of their own. Goldschmidt led off with a towering solo home run to left field, his ninth of the year, to push the St. Louis lead back to 6-4. Two batters later, Arenado crushed a pitch from reliever Yerry De Los Santos over the fence in right-center for a two-run shot, his eighth homer, to make it 8-4 Cardinals.

The Cardinals bullpen took over from there, with Genesis Cabrera, Giovanny Gallegos and Ryan Helsley combining for 3 1/3 scoreless innings. Gallegos worked around a two-out single in the eighth to keep Pittsburgh off the board. Helsley tossed a perfect ninth, striking out two, to pick up his third save on the year.

While the bullpen shut Pittsburgh down over the final four innings, the Pirates did make things interesting late. In the top of the ninth, a one-out RBI double by Allen and run-scoring single by Cruz off Helsley brought the tying run to the plate. However, Helsley was able to induce a 6-4-3 double play from Ben Gamel to end the game, preserving the 9-7 Cardinals victory.

Offensively, Goldschmidt, Arenado and O’Neill led the way for St. Louis. Goldschmidt finished 3-for-4 with two runs scored and two RBI, including his ninth home run. Arenado went 2-for-4 with four RBI and his eighth homer of 2022. O’Neill chipped in three hits and drove in two critical runs.

With the win, the Cardinals improved to 25-21 on the season and moved within 1.5 games of first place Milwaukee in the NL Central. St. Louis will look to take the rubber match of the series tomorrow afternoon at 1:15 pm against the Pirates and ace Jose Quintana.

This back-and-forth slugfest was an exciting one for Cardinals fans. Timely hitting, key homers by the stars, and another strong late-inning performance by the bullpen led St. Louis to an important victory. The Cardinals will aim to carry this momentum into the series finale tomorrow.

BOWMAN 89 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1989 Bowman baseball card set was a landmark release that featured some of the greatest young stars and prospects in baseball at the time. Issued by Topps’ Bowman brand, the 1989 set showcased future Hall of Famers and all-time greats like Ken Griffey Jr., Gary Sheffield, and Tom Glavine in their rookie cards. While not quite as iconic or valuable as the iconic ’52 Topps or ’87 Topps Traded sets, the 1989 Bowman cards remain highly collectible and important artifacts from late 80s/early 90s baseball.

The 1989 Bowman set was the 21st annual release in the long-running Bowman baseball card line. It contained 396 total cards and featured players from both the American and National Leagues. Some key details – the base card design consisted of a color photo of the player in front of a white background, with stats and career highlights on the back. Serial numbers were printed on the bottom front of each card. The set also included various inserts like league leaders, all-star cards, and ‘Bowman Best’ highlight cards. Gum was still included in wax packs at this time as well.

Distribution of the 1989 Bowman set coincided with a boom in the baseball card industry during the late 80s. Major League Baseball was enjoying increased popularity and interest, especially with young fans. Legends like Kirby Puckett, Wade Boggs, and Ozzie Smith were entering their primes. Meanwhile, a new generation of stars was emerging, headlined by Ken Griffey Jr. and the ‘Kid’ became the undisputed cover star and most sought-after rookie in the ’89 Bowman set. His card is still one of the most iconic and valuable baseball cards ever issued.

Other notable rookie cards from the 1989 Bowman set included future Hall of Famers Tom Glavine (Atlanta Braves pitcher) and Gary Sheffield (Milwaukee Brewers outfielder). Both players went on to have outstanding MLB careers and their rookie cards remain highly collectible today. Additional impact rookies like Gregg Jefferies (NY Mets), Randy Johnson (Montreal Expos), and Mark Grace (Chicago Cubs) also debuted in the ’89 Bowman set before blossoming into all-star caliber players. The set is widely considered one of the best for capturing future stars at the beginning of their careers.

Beyond the rookie card class, the 1989 Bowman set also featured established MLB stars who were entering their baseball primes. Superstars like Ozzie Smith, Wade Boggs, Kirby Puckett, and Roger Clemens had some of their best seasons ever in 1989. Their inclusion added proven talent and value to the set. The ’89 Bowman cards of these players remain widely collected today, especially in high grades, as representations of those players’ abilities at the height of their powers.

In terms of production and rarity, the 1989 Bowman set had a large initial print run to meet anticipated demand. Due to the boom and growing collector base of the late 80s, the set sold out quickly. As one of the most popular releases of its time, most of the ’89 Bowman cards survived in circulated condition through heavy childhood collections. But high grade specimens suitable for today’s standards became scarce soon after. PSA/BGS Gem Mint 10 rookie cards of Griffey Jr., Glavine, and Sheffield now sell for thousands of dollars when they surface.

The 1989 Bowman baseball card set was a seminal release that bridged the sport’s eras. It captured the arrival of future legends like Ken Griffey Jr. while also spotlighting the games’ established stars of the late 80s/early 90s. Loved by collectors both old and new, the ’89 Bowman set endures as one of the most iconic and valuable offerings from the golden age of baseball cards. Its rookie cards especially stand as some of the most historically significant and investment-worthy in the hobby. Over 30 years later, the set remains an important snapshot of MLB during one of its most popular periods.

1985 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 1985 Fleer baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable issues from the 1980s. It was Fleer’s first true competitor to Topps, who had enjoyed a monopoly in the baseball card market for decades. With the introduction of this exciting new option, collectors began what is now known as the “Great Baseball Card Boom” of the 1980s.

While the entire 1985 Fleer set holds value for collectors, some stand out as truly valuable gems. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most expensive and desirable cards from this historic release.

Perhaps the most iconic of all is the Fleer #252 Gary Carter rookie card. As the first true Fleer rookie card for the Hall of Famer, this card created a huge surge in interest upon its release. Carter went on to have a stellar 19-year career, establishing himself as one of the greatest catching talents in MLB history. His Fleer rookie is the true crown jewel of the ’85 set, often commanding prices upwards of $1,000 depending on condition. Even well-worn near-mint copies still sell for several hundred dollars.

Another huge star rookie from ’85 Fleer is #97 Dwight Gooden. Arguably one of the best pitchers of his generation, Gooden’s Fleer issue was the first card released showing him in a Mets uniform. His dominance on the mound and 1984 Rookie of the Year award made this one of the most hotly desired new cards. In top grades like mint or gem mint, Gooden’s Fleer rookie can fetch over $2,000. Even well-loved near-mint copies still sell in the $500-1000 range.

Beyond the rookie cards of future Hall of Famers, ’85 Fleer is also home to scarce short prints that boost valuable significantly in higher grades. One such example is #250 Darryl Strawberry, which was originally overlooked by collectors but has since become a true blue chip. High grade Strawberry Fleers in the PSA 8-10 range easily sell for well over $500 due to the card’s rarity. Another tough-to-find short print is #244 Jack Clark, whose PSA 9 copy recently sold for nearly $400.

Powerhouse hitters are also well-represented among the ’85 Fleer premium cards. #111 Don Mattingly, already a star by 1985, is iconic wearing pinstripes on his Fleer issue. PSA/BGS gem mint 10 Mattinglys have topped $2,000 at auction. Hall of Famer #78 George Brett remains highly coveted as well, with elite examples approaching $1,000. #247 Mike Schmidt, already a perennial MVP, is another third-base titan worth well into the triple digits even in lower grades.

Rookies of other future superstars like #125 Wally Joyner, #169 Barry Larkin, and #228 Mark McGwire also gain value in high grades. Superstars near the end of productive careers like #101 Dave Winfield and #121 Eddie Murray also demand six-figure prices for pristine specimens. Rare error variations on basic cards like the #12 Jim Cowser “upside down photo” variant can net mid-four figures as well.

Condition is absolutely king when evaluating the elite expensive cards in the ’85 Fleer set. Even minor flaws or wear drastically cut into a card’s resale potential. That’s why the true seven-figure specimens will be flawless PSA/BGS gem mint 10 graded examples. For most collectors on a budget, there are still plenty of affordable highlights to be found even in well-loved near-mint to mint graded copies of the set’s stars.

The 1985 Fleer baseball release sparked collector frenzy and holds a hallowed place in card history. Rookie gems and scarce variants remain valuable and fun to chase even decades later. For engaged investors, high grades of this set’s biggest names remain a proven cornerstone of any collection. But lower graded copies still offer nostalgic thrills and affordability to new collectors just starting their journey with this legendary early Fleer baseball issue as well.

OLD BASEBALL CARDS FOR SALE

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Old Baseball Cards for Sale: A Glimpse into History Through Vintage Collectibles

Baseball cards representing some of the earliest years of professional baseball in America are highly sought after collectibles that provide a unique historical perspective. Cards from the late 1880s through the early 1950s showcase the evolution of the sport and individuals who helped pave the way for modern Major League Baseball. While finding cards in mint condition from the earliest decades can draw auction prices of six or even seven figures, there is a wide array of affordable vintage options available for collectors of all budgets.

One of the first widely distributed sets of baseball cards dates back to 1886-1887, produced by the manufacturers of cigarette brands such as Allen & Ginter and Pearl. These rarities captured star players of the time like Tim Keefe, King Kelly and Pud Galvin. In excellent condition, a single one of these pioneer cardboard pieces can be worth over $100,000. More common from the same earliest era but still highly valuable are cards between 1888-1907 from sets like T206, E90-1 and E95-1 issue. Well-kept examples can realize several thousand dollars each.

The 1910s saw innovations in baseball card production that increased availability and helped spark lasting fandom. In 1910, the American Tobacco Company began issuing cards as inserts in packs of cigarettes under the brand name T208. This decade also saw contributions from sets like M101-8, M101-1 and M102-3. Names displayed included contemporaneous legends Ty Cobb, Walter Johnson and Grover Cleveland Alexander. In VG-EX condition, cards from this era often sell in the hundreds to low thousands.

Mass production truly took hold in the 1920s. Topps Chewing Gum began issuing regional sets that were predecessors to the modern concept of annual baseball cards included in candy packs. Other memorable 20s sets were C313 Hudson Superba, NYP (Nationals Police), and Shoe Card. Stars of the day Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig and Rogers Hornsby were featured. Condition is critical but cards in average circulated state frequently sell from $50-$300 each from this widely collected decade.

The Great Depression affected sales of collectibles for kids, yet some memorable sets persevered including 1936 and 1937 Goudey Gum and 1939 Play Ball. Honus Wagner’s legendary T206 card from 1909 saw one of the highest prices ever paid for a single card when a copy surfaced in near-mint condition and sold at auction in 2016 for $3.12 million. Most cards were nowhere near as scarce or expensive, but high grades of stars like Mel Ott, Earl Averill and Lefty Grove brought prices of $1,000+ each.

World War II rationing of paper and other resources took baseball cards off the market for several years. But production roared back as the country celebrated victory and renewed prosperity. Topps re-emerged as the dominant maker in the 1950s with their iconic red, white and blue design that has endured for generations. Rookie cards first appeared, featuring future legends like Willie Mays, Hank Aaron and Sandy Koufax. Cards from complete 1955, 1956 and 1957 Topps sets regularly sell for $50-150 each in average issued condition, while high grade mint examples can realize thousands.

The post-war period also saw under-recognized but treasured sets issued including Bowman, Red Man, Leaf and Play Ball. Stars displayed included Mickey Mantle, Stan Musial, Warren Spahn and early Ted Williams and Jackie Robinson cards after baseball integrated. Even common circa 1950 cards sell for around $10 each but condition sensitive all-time great rookie cards or stars in high grades push into the multiple hundreds of dollars each.

As the decades wore on and mass production continued, scarcity and condition remained the drivers of high value. But virtually any complete or partial set, team subset or individual card representing the earliest pioneers and all-time legends of the game from before 1960 holds intrinsic historic interest for collectors and provides a tangible link to the golden era of America’s pastime. With patience and diligence, affordable vintage cardboard from this glorious period can still be found to spark wonder and kindle nostalgia.