2023 TOPPS BL BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 Topps Baseball card set is one of the most anticipated releases each year from the longest running brand in the industry. Topps has been producing MLB cards since 1951 and their flagship base set is a staple for collectors both young and old. This year’s design takes inspiration from some classic Topps looks of the past while still feeling fresh. Let’s take an in-depth look at what collectors can expect from the 2023 Topps Baseball cards.

Design & Photography
The design uses a clean white border around each card with the team logo prominently displayed at the top. The photography has a very natural look and feel to it, focusing more on action shots rather than posed portraits. There is also a nice variety in the backgrounds used, from grass fields to brick walls. The photography quality is top notch as one would expect from Topps. The design elements are rendered in a simple but appealing style. While not overly flashy, it has a classic baseball card aesthetic that will appeal to the company’s many loyal collectors.

Base Set & Parallels
The base set checklist includes all 30 MLB teams for a total of 750 cards. The design is the same across the entire set. For parallels, Topps is including several popular colored variants for collectors to chase after. The main parallels include Gold Foil (#/2021), Silver Foil (#/150), Rainbow Foil (1/1), and Black Foil (1/1). The Gold and Silver parallels use serial numbering to denote rarity. The Rainbow and Black parallels are true 1/1 exclusives. Topps also has “Red” and “Blue” parallels planned but specifics on print runs or numbering have not been revealed yet. Overall this provides several attractive parallel options for collectors at various price points.

Rookies & Prospects to Watch
One of the most exciting aspects each year is seeing the latest crop of MLB rookies in their rookie card debuts. Some of the top names to watch for in the 2023 Topps base set include catcher Adley Rutschman, pitcher Grayson Rodriguez, infielder Bobby Witt Jr., and outfielder Julio Rodriguez. Each of these young stars had breakout seasons in 2022 and are poised to become franchise cornerstones. Beyond the base rookies, Topps Series 1 will feature additional rookie cards for players who made their MLB debut later in the 2022 season. Keep an eye out for prospects like Oneil Cruz, Spencer Torkelson, and Hunter Greene.

Special Insert Sets
Topps packs plenty of insert sets throughout their various baseball products each year. Here’s a preview of some of the notable special inserts planned for the 2023 Topps base set:

Topps Chrome – Refractors and parallels of select base cards
Topps Gallery of Heroes – Tribute cards spotlighting MLB legends
Topps Golden Moments – Highlighting iconic MLB moments in history
Topps Now – Update cards for top performances later in the season
Topps Heritage – Vintage-style cards paying homage to the past
Topps Archives – Reproductions of rare, vintage Topps designs
Topps Fire – Foil cards with fiery graphic treatments
Topps Inception – Autographed rookie cards w/ serial numbering

Autograph & Memorabilia Cards
In addition to the base cards and inserts, hobby boxes are expected to contain several autograph and memorabilia cards on average. The checklist will feature a mix of current stars and legends. Topps typically guarantees at least one hit per hobby box. Memorabilia cards can feature material from jerseys, bats, gloves, and more. Serialized parallels and 1/1 exclusives are also planned. Topps autographs are considered some of the most accessible hobby-level signed cards in the industry.

Release Date & Product Options
The official release date for the 2023 Topps Baseball base set is expected to be in early March 2023. Hobby boxes will be the primary retail product format, available through local hobby shops and online retailers. Each box contains 12 packs with an average of 12 cards per pack. Topps will also offer blaster and fat packs, value boxes, and value packs for casual collectors. Retail Megas and Hangers will be available at major retailers later in the season as distribution allows. Online exclusives like jumbo boxes are also planned. Overall Topps offers a wide variety of product options at multiple different price points.

Summary
The 2023 Topps Baseball release is shaping up to be another fantastic set from the industry leader. With its classic design aesthetic, top-notch photography, exciting rookie class, and wide array of inserts and hit cards, it’s sure to be a must-have for both new and veteran collectors. The combination of accessible hobby boxes and multiple other retail formats means there will be plenty of ways for anyone to enjoy the latest edition in Topps’ flagship baseball set. After over 70 years in the hobby, Topps continues to deliver quality cardboard that preserves the history of America’s Pastime.

VALUABLE 1989 BOWMAN BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1989 Bowman set is considered one of the most valuable baseball card releases from the late 80s/early 90s era. While it didn’t receive the same recognition or popularity as flagship sets like Topps or Donruss at the time, the 1989 Bowman cards have gained significant collectible value in recent decades. Several factors contributed to making certain rookie cards and star players from the ’89 Bowman set highly coveted and expensive today.

One of the biggest reasons some 1989 Bowman cards sell for thousands of dollars is the premium placed on rookie cards, especially those of future Hall of Famers. Ken Griffey Jr’s rookie card from the set is arguably the most famous and valuable. Even in well-worn condition, PSA graded Griffey rookies typically fetch thousands. In pristine mint condition, unattained PSA 10 gems have sold at auction for over $100,000. Griffey was abundantly talented and would go on to have one of the greatest careers in baseball history. His rookie card remains the crown jewel of the 1989 Bowman set.

Another highly valuable rookie from the set is the card of Juan Gonzalez. Like Griffey, Gonzalez was an impactful young star bursting onto the scene in 1989. He won back-to-back MVP awards in 1996-1997 and had a long productive career. PSA 10 Juan Gonzalez rookies have sold for upwards of $15,000 recently. Less than 10 PSA 10 examples are even known to exist. Aside from rookies, the star studded lineup of veterans featured in the ’89 Bowman set adds to its collectible appeal.

Many of the set’s most valuable veteran cards feature Hall of Famers and all-time great players at the peaks of their careers. For example, a PSA 10 graded Ken Griffey Sr card has sold for over $5,000. While Griffey Sr wasn’t a superstar on his own, rarity and the father-son dynamic with Ken Jr add considerable premium. A PSA 10 Barry Bonds card from the set reached $4,000 at auction. Bonds was already one of the game’s best players in 1989 and collecting at the dawn of his record breaking power surge. Other $1,000+ veterans include Don Mattingly, Wade Boggs, and Rickey Henderson cards in top condition.

In addition to starring rookies and veterans, autograph and memorabilia cards inserted randomly in packs drastically spike the value of certain 1989 Bowman cards. For example, a Ken Griffey Jr autograph fetches over $15,000 PSA/DNA authenticated. Even unsigned memorabilia cards command huge dollars. A piece of a Junior worn jersey recently sold for $5,000 in gem mint condition. Finding one of these elusive autograph or memorabilia parallels in a pack was like hitting the motherlode for collectors in 1989. Today, they’re among the most valuable aspects of the entire set.

Another aspect that makes high-grade 1989 Bowman cards so expensive is their sheer rarity. Due to low production numbers at the time, pristine mint examples graded Gem Mint PSA 10 are exceedingly scarce across the entire set. Population reports from services like PSA show only a tiny fraction of graded cards achieve a 10 rating. With so few supplies of these nearly perfect condition copies in existence, demand and prices stay aggressively high. Top tier condition is essential to maximizing value for 1989 Bowman cards. Even marginal flaws can cut an estimate in half.

Beyond flagship stars like Griffey Jr, savvy collectors also seek out value among lesser known but equally scarce players from the 1989 Bowman release. For example, a PSA 10 graded Dennis Martinez rookie would command $1,000-2,000. Martinez had a solid career but his rookie is extraordinarily rare in Gem Mint condition. Other examples of lessheralded but rare gems include Willie Mays Hays, Sandy Alomar Jr, and Gregg Olson rookies approaching $1,000 in top shape. With thorough research, bargains can still be found by targeting obscure but scarce performers specific to the ’89 Bowman checklist.

The 1989 Bowman baseball card set remains an investment grade collectible nearly 35 years after its original release. Strong rookie class headlined by future superstars, elite veteran talent, scarce autographed and memorabilia inserts, and exceptionally tough high-grade populations are all factors that solidify this set’s valuable legacy among enthusiasts of the vintage baseball card era. With multi-thousand dollar examples like the Griffey Jr rookie still appreciating value steadily year over year, 1989 Bowman continues to be among the most sought after releases for sophisticated investors and collectors.

VALUABLE 1993 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1993 Score baseball card set introduced some of the most valuable rookie cards of the 1990s. Produced by Score Board, the set featured a diverse array of stars in action shots from the 1992 season. While the design lacked the foil accents and photography of costlier brands, 1993 Score cards delivered substantial player content at an affordable price. This set is still prized by collectors today for housing iconic rookie cards like that of Derek Jeter.

Perhaps the single most coveted 1993 Score card is the Derek Jeter rookie, numbered 127 in the base set. As a highly touted Yankees prospect, Jeter made his MLB debut in 1995 and quickly established himself as a perennial All-Star and consummate teammate. He would go on to captain five World Series championship teams in New York and retire with over 3,000 hits, cementing his status among the greatest shortstops in baseball history. In near-mint condition, his 1993 Score rookie card routinely commands $1000 or more at auction given his legendary playing career and popularity amongst collectors. While still extremely expensive, it’s a relative bargain compared to what his much rarer Pinnacle and Bowman rookie cards fetch on the modern market.

Another prized rookie from 1993 Score is that of Jim Thome, found at card number 645. Thome made his debut with the Indians in 1991 but broke out in 1993 by smacking 16 home runs in just 74 games. He’d go on to sock 612 long balls over a 22-year MLB tenure, eventually landing in the Hall of Fame. Thome’s card doesn’t quite rival Jeter’s in demand, but graded PSA/BGS 10 copies still sell for several hundred dollars given his power-hitting prowess and Cooperstown plaque. The accompanying bio on the reverse details his prodigious home run power even at a young age.

Pitching rookies are rarely as coveted as sluggers, but cards from future aces often succeed as blue-chip investments. For example, the Greg Maddux rookie card from 1993 Score at number 312 is a shrewd long-term buy. Maddux debuted in 1986 and rose to stardom across two decades, racking up 355 wins, four Cy Young Awards, and a place in the Hall of Fame discussion as one of baseball’s craftiest hurlers. Near-mint PSA 9 copies regularly move for $150-200 due to his incredible longevity and on-field success. His balanced wind-up stance and delivery are captured cleanly on this affordable rookie option.

Other rookies of note from the 1993 Score set that can fetch three figures or more include Jeff Bagwell at card number 78, Frank Thomas at number 340, and Moises Alou at number 621. Bagwell exploded as one of the game’s best slugging first basemen of the 1990s, Thomas won back-to-back MVPs in 1993-1994 with his mighty swing, and Alou became an everyday corner outfielder. Though they reached stardom more gradually than Jeter or Thome, bags in near-mint condition still sell briskly due to their winning careers and modern fan appeal. Beyond these rookies, additional stars featured prominently in 1993 Score include Barry Bonds, Ken Griffey Jr, Cal Ripken Jr, and Tony Gwynn.

Beyond individual cards, the 1993 Score set overall retains strong resale value due to its affordable roots and place hosting iconic rookie debuts. Unopened wax boxes in sealed condition frequently sell for $200-300 depending on age and condition of the packaging. Even random opened boxes still fetch $100-150 from eager set builders. Individual commons are quite inexpensive to acquire, often $1-3 each regardless of player. This allows collectors on budgets to easily build the full 660-card checklist over time without breaking the bank. The true blue-chip cards profiled here remain out of reach for most collectors unless willing to invest significantly in the highest grades.

The 1993 Score baseball card set holds enduring significance as the debut showcase of future Hall of Famers like Derek Jeter and Jim Thome. While production values were modest compared to pricier brands, this affordable classic provided fans widespread access to the sport’s brightest young talents just starting to shine. Rookie cards from stars who went on to stardom like Jeter, Maddux, and Thomas are rightly prized holdings in collection today. Even opened examples in mint condition can yield considerable resale due to the cachet of housing a star’s earliest trading card appearance. The 1993 Score set showcases the dawn of legends in an wallet-friendly package that remains a popular and profitable franchise for savvy vintage baseball memorabilia investors.

10 MOST VALUABLE 1989 FLEER BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1989 Fleer baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and valuable issues from the late 1980s. Fleer only produced cards for a select few players in 1989 and focused on star athletes. As a result, many of the cards from this set have increased tremendously in value over the past 30+ years. Here are the 10 most valuable 1989 Fleer baseball cards based on their current market prices for graded gem mint condition copies.

Ken Griffey Jr. RC (Rookie Card) – Griffey’s rookie card is the crown jewel of any vintage collection. Even in a PSA 10, it can fetch over $10,000. Widely considered one of the best players of his generation, Griffey was a huge star from the get-go. His smiling face and sweet swing translated perfectly to cardboard. This remains one of the most iconic and sought-after rookie cards in the hobby.

Roger Clemens – One of the best pitchers of all-time, Clemens won multiple Cy Young awards and struck out a ton of batters. His 1989 Fleer card consistently sells for $1,000-2,000 in top grades due to his Hall of Fame career. Clemens was a dominating force on the mound every fifth day for over two decades.

Barry Bonds – Bonds smashed countless records and home runs on his way to Cooperstown. His intimidating stance and swing always translated well to a baseball card. This Fleer issue brings around $800-1,500 for a PSA 10 due to Bonds’ massive peak in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Randy Johnson – “The Big Unit” was a towering presence on the mound at 6’10. In PSA 10 condition, his 1989 Fleer card trades hands for $700-1,200. With over 4,000 strikeouts and five Cy Young awards, Johnson easily cemented his place as one of the most unhittable pitchers in MLB history.

Nolan Ryan – Arguably the greatest power pitcher ever, Ryan racked up over 5,000 career strikeouts before retiring in the early 1990s. Any card featuring “The Ryan Express” mowing down batters is highly sought after. A pristine 1989 Fleer sells for $600-900 given Ryan’s legendary fastball and long, dominant career.

Bo Jackson – The poster boy for two-sport superstars, Bo could run like the wind and mash baseballs over fences at the same time. Injuries plagued what should have been a Hall of Fame career, but his iconic status was cemented early on. His 1989 Fleer is valued at $500-800 for just how exciting Jackson was to watch in his limited time in MLB.

Kirby Puckett – A hero in Minnesota, Puckett led the Twins to World Series titles in 1987 and 1991 while dazzling defensively in center field. He won two batting titles in the late 1980s while contending for MVP awards every season. A PSA 10 Puckett sells between $450-700 nowadays due to his outstanding peak performance and popularity in Minnesota.

Cal Ripken Jr. – The “Iron Man” played in an incredible 2,632 straight games while starring for the Orioles in the late 80s and 1990s. His epic streak embodied consistency and durability at the plate and in the field. Ripken’s 1989 Fleer trades between $400-650 tracking his Hall of Fame career and impact on baseball.

Ozzie Smith – As perhaps the greatest defensive shortstop ever, “The Wizard” added 15 Gold Gloves to his resume in the 1980s while leading the Cardinals. His magical plays in the field blew audiences away game after game. A pristine copy of Smith’s 1989 Fleer rates $350-550 and is beloved in Saint Louis.

Wade Boggs – One of the most consistent hitters ever, Boggs won five batting titles in the 1980s with a picture-perfect stroke. His .358 career average is third all-time. Known as “The Chicken Man” for his daily meal routine, Boggs left an indelible mark. His 1989 Fleer sells in the $300-500 range, representing the model of durability and plate discipline at the top of the lineup for both Red Sox and Yankees teams.

The 1989 Fleer baseball card set perfectly captured the stars from that late 80s era. Griffey, Bonds, Johnson, and others all produced Hall of Fame careers after their rookie cards in this iconic issue. The combination of star power, Fleer’s quality printing process, and the nostalgia of the 1980s has made many of these vintage cards tremendously valuable today for collectors and investors. With prices continuing to rise, the 1989 Fleer set remains a vital part of any serious collection and a excellent long-term vintage investment.

1960S BASEBALL CARDS FOR SALE

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The 1960s was perhaps the most iconic decade for baseball card collecting. Stars of the era like Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, Sandy Koufax, and Johnny Bench graced the cardboard in their prime years. While the 1950s may have more historical significance as the early dawn of the modern baseball card era, the 1960s saw the explosion of popularity that turned card collecting into a mainstream hobby. Even today, over 50 years later, 1960s baseball cards remain hugely sought after items for collectors.

Topstars of the 1960s frequently appear at the top of most valuable baseball card lists. A 1963 Topps Willie Mays rookie card in gem mint condition could fetch over $500,000. A 1968 Topps Nolan Ryan rookie in the same condition would sell for around $100,000. There are still plenty of affordable cards from the decade available if you know where to look. Lower print run and rare serial number parallel sets from the era can also provide diamonds in the rough.

Topps dominated the baseball card market in the 1960s as they had since the early 1950s. Their standard red, white and blue design was iconic and helped fuel the era’s popularity boom. In 1960 Topps switched to a horizontal card design it would stick with for most of the rest of the decade. The size became 2 1/2 inches by 3 3/4 inches. The 1962 set is notable for being the first to feature player stats and careers on the back of the card. The competitive Fleer company also emerged as the number two brand in 1961, offering parents an alternative to Topps. Their bright pink color scheme cards were eye-catching but production issues kept them from overtaking Topps.

In 1966 Topps made waves by introducing the first color photography to baseball cards. The cards were printed using a process called “photo-grain” which gave muted photo colors a distinct look and feel. 1967 and 1968 brought more experimentation with bright action shots and team logo designs on the front that have become collector favorites today.

There were also several regional and specialty sets in the 1960s beyond Topps and Fleer that are favorites of advanced collectors. The very rare 1961/1962 Pic Corporation and 1961/1962 Mars Attacks sets offer true retro oddities for aficionados. 1961/1963 Milwaukee Braves wax packs were only available locally in Wisconsin yet remain iconic. 1960/1961/1962 Philadelphia Phillies sets distribute real photo cards solely in the Philly area. 1960/1961/1962/1965 Bowman sets brought slick colorful designs reminiscent of classic cigarette packs.

Online auction sites and card show circuits mean raw and graded 1960s baseball cards for sale are now easily accessible to collectors of all levels. A quick scan of eBay often turns up plenty of affordable commons and stars from the decade to build basic sets or target PC players. TCGPlayer and sports card shop websites offer comparisons of current market values. Card shows in most major cities on weekends will have 1960s boxes full of options for rifling through as well. Organized by year or team, you’re sure to find keys stars and oddballs to round out your collection.

Pricing on raw 1960s cards varies hugely depending on condition, player, and serial number variations. A bottom-of-the-rosters commons in played/damaged condition might go for under $5 each. Superstar rookie cards or rare parallel/insert variations in gem mint could fetch hundreds. Complete flagship Topps and Fleer sets in Presentation/Near Mint grade are available in the $500-1500 range depending on year.

Certified grading though third party authenticators like PSA and BGS elevates cards to a premium price level. A 1960s card that grades mint 9 or above is considered true “grail” territory for collectors chasing condition census rarities. Even a PSA 8 of an otherwise affordable player can 3-5x the raw card price. The added security and standard of an official encapsulated grade makes these modern slabbed cards appealing for serious long term investors.

In conclusion, 1960s baseball cards truly span the breadth of collecting options from affordable to ultra-high end. Whether piecing together wax pack memories or chasing condition census peaks, this golden decade’s plethora of stars, oddities, and innovations ensure its cardboard classics will remain endlessly collectible for generations to come. With accessibility better than ever online and at shows, it’s never been a better time for new and old collectors alike to sift through boxes and build up troves of 1960s cardboard treasures from the game’s apex.

1983 DONRUSS BIG BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1983 Donruss Big baseball card set is considered a modern classic of the Junk Wax Era of the 1980s and early 90s. Not only did it feature oversized 3.5” by 5” cards that were a novelty at the time, the set also contained various fun extras that collectors loved. At 462 total cards, the ‘83 Donruss Big set has endured and attracted new fans thanks to its larger-than-life aesthetic and intriguing extras included with each pack.

When Donruss released their Big card set in 1983, they introduced a whole new dimensions and design standards for baseball cards that other companies tried to imitate in subsequent years. At nearly twice the size of a standard card, Donruss Big cards stood out on the shelf and in anyone’s collection. This increase in physical card size allowed Donruss to include more stats, career highlights, and vivid color photos on each card. Rather than cramming information onto the smaller surfaces they previously used, Donruss had ample room to spread out stats tables and really highlight each players career achievements to that point.

Beyond just the larger card, Donruss Big also contained additional inserts and bonus items packed randomly in boxes. Some of the extras fans could find included bubblegum, temporary tattoos, stickers, and coupon/trading cards. Each pack had a chance to contain one of these exciting bonuses from Donruss. Collectors at the time loved the surprise of not knowing what extra goodies their quarter purchase might yield. It added an element of excitement and chance to the otherwise straightforward act of buying packs of cards. These bonuses also encouraged repeat purchases as kids hoped for tattoos of their favorite players or coupons they could redeem.

Included within the expansive 462-card base set were rookie cards for dozens of future Hall of Famers like Tom Glavine, Greg Maddux, and David Cone. Icons like Nolan Ryan, Phil Niekro, and Pete Rose had stat-packed career retrospective cards as well. While the photo quality and production values weren’t wildly different than contemporary sets from Topps or Fleer, the oversized format really allowed each players career highlights to shine through. Colorful graphics, tables, and career stats gave collectors a thorough snapshot of where certain veterans were at that point in their lengthy MLB tenure.

For teams, the 1983 Donruss Big set featured uniform color-tonedteam cards highlighting that franchise’s top performers from that season. Team checklists also listed each player included from that club to help collectors track their progress. Whether pursuing a full set, team sets, or individual player cards, the team-centric layouts and checklists aided the organizational process for completionists.

While collecting habits differed player to player, many kids in the early 80s saved their allowance, lunch money, or earnings from odd jobs to purchase wax packs at the corner store. The promise of bonus items amid the base cards brought an element of surprise to each pack rip. You never knew what extra you might pull whether it be a small piece of returning bubblegum, temporary tattoos of Mike Schmidt or George Brett, or promotional trading cards for the 1984 Olympics. Whether completing sets or just enjoying the collective experience with friends, Donruss Big cards offered plenty for both casual and avid collectors alike to enjoy.

In the years since, the oversized Donruss Big cards have retained their novelty appeal. Their generous size makes for an eye-catching display in any collection. While production numbers for certain stars may diminish their true scarcity today, the fun accessories and overall aesthetic of the 1983 set keeps it a favorite of players from that era. With lively photography showcasing some of baseball’s biggest names of the time, Donruss Big offered kids and adults of the 1980s a uniquely large cardboard window into that season on the diamond. Their lasting popularity and consistent demand among collectors ensures this unique subset of the junk wax era maintains its value and nostalgia decades later.

Fueled by the surge of interest from players who collected them as kids plus a desire from newer collectors to experience the fun of the 1980s, 1983 Donruss Big cards remain a highly recognizable part of card collecting history. Between the novelty oversized cards, detailed stats, vibrant photography, and bonus pack inserts, it’s easy to understand why fans at the time and collectors today remain so drawn to this vibrant and engrossing annual set from Donruss.

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BEST CARDS IN 2023 BOWMAN CHROME BASEBALL

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The 2023 Bowman Chrome baseball card set is set to be released in February 2023 and it promises to deliver another exciting crop of top prospects and future stars. Bowman Chrome is known for its flashy refractors and colorful parallels that make for highly coveted rookie cards. With another strong draft class coming through, there will be no shortage of talented players to chase. Here are some of the top rookies and prospects to keep an eye out for when ripping packs of the new Bowman Chrome release.

Druw Jones (OF, Atlanta Braves) – As the number 2 overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, Jones is already one of the most hyped prospects in baseball. The son of former All-Star Andruw Jones, Druw has 5-tool potential and impressive athleticism in the outfield. His Bowman Chrome rookie cards are sure to be in high demand from collectors. Refractors and parallels of Jones could prove to be very valuable long term holdings.

Termarr Johnson (SS, Atlanta Braves) – Another top Braves prospect from the 2022 draft class, Johnson was considered one of the best pure hitters available. He has the potential to stick at shortstop and hit for both power and average at the next level. Johnson will be one of the more sought after rookie cards outside of the number one pick.

Brooks Lee (3B, Minnesota Twins) – The 8th overall selection in 2022, Lee put up big numbers as a junior for Cal Poly. He has a polished all-around game and should move quickly through the minors. Lee could find himself in the majors by 2024, making his Bowman Chrome cards a smart investment.

Elijah Green (OF, Cleveland Guardians) – Green slipped to the 17th pick despite being considered a potential top-5 talent. He has five-tool potential with plus raw power and speed. Green will be an exciting player to watch develop in the Guardians system. His rookie cards could pay off in a big way down the road.

Daniel Susac (C, Oakland A’s) – An elite defensive catcher with some pop in his bat, Susac was taken 19th overall in 2022. He has the makings of an impact player both offensively and defensively at a premium position. Susac is a name to remember for A’s fans and collectors alike.

Brooks Lee (3B, Minnesota Twins) – The 8th overall selection in 2022, Lee put up big numbers as a junior for Cal Poly. He has a polished all-around game and should move quickly through the minors. Lee could find himself in the majors by 2024, making his Bowman Chrome cards a smart investment.

Emmanuel Rodríguez (SS, Boston Red Sox) – Considered a potential top-10 talent, Rodríguez fell to the Red Sox at 24th overall due to signability concerns. He has plus speed, defensive skills, and developing power that could make him a star. Rodríguez carries some risk but also high reward potential.

Cole Young (SS, Chicago Cubs) – Young was a bit of a surprise pick at 15th overall but scouts love his athleticism and bat-to-ball skills. He has the tools to stick at shortstop long-term in Wrigleyville. Young is an intriguing prospect to track in the Cubs system.

Brock Porter (RHP, Texas Rangers) – The third high school pitcher taken in 2022 after Druw Jones and Brandon Barriera, Porter has a power arsenal and projection. His fastball already sits in the mid-90s with a good breaking ball. Porter could rocket up prospect lists in the coming years.

Gavin Cross (OF, Cleveland Guardians) – A first round talent who fell to Cleveland at 9th overall due to signability concerns, Cross is a complete five-tool player. He has 20-20 potential and should be a core piece of their future outfield. Cross carries some added intrigue and upside as a draft-day faller.

Jackson Ferris (LHP, Cleveland Guardians) – Considered one of the top prep arms available, Ferris has three quality pitches and projects well as a future starter. His low-90s fastball already shows promise. Ferris was a compensation pick for Cleveland and could pay off.

Brock Porter (RHP, Texas Rangers) – The third high school pitcher taken in 2022 after Druw Jones and Brandon Barriera, Porter has a power arsenal and projection. His fastball already sits in the mid-90s with a good breaking ball. Porter could rocket up prospect lists in the coming years.

Beyond the top names from the 2022 draft, keep an eye out for other top prospects who may be on the cusp of a big league call up like Gunnar Henderson, Jordan Walker, and Jackson Holliday. International signings like Raimfer Salinas, Emilker Guzman, and Roderick Arias could also emerge as finds. As always with Bowman Chrome, colorful refractors and parallels of the top rookies carry the most cache. But with another loaded draft class coming through, there will be no shortage of potential stars to chase in the 2023 release.

MOST VALUABLE 1989 DIAMOND KINGS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1989 Diamond Kings baseball card set marked the beginning of a new era for sports card collecting in the late 1980s. While previously the crown jewels had been the flagship Topps and Fleer sets, Diamond Kings brought a new premium concept that focused entirely on star players and key rookie cards. The brand was published by Impel Marketing, known for their premium offerings like Score Board and Upper Deck which revolutionized the industry in the late 80s and early 90s. With vivid photography, sturdy construction and sharp crisp designs, Diamond Kings set the standard for what a high-end baseball product should look like.

Perhaps the most coveted and valuable card from the 1989 Diamond Kings set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of if not the greatest rookie card of all-time due to Griffey’s immense superstar status and popularity in the 1990s, his Diamond Kings RC is the undisputed crown jewel of the set. In pristine mint condition, Griffey’s DK rookie has sold for over $10,000 at auction. Part of what makes it so iconic is that it perfectly captures “The Kid” in all his youthful exuberance at the start of his Hall of Fame career. With its vivid portrait against a clean white backdrop, it remains one of the most visually stunning and instantly recognizable rookie cards ever produced.

Another enormously valuable card from 1989 Diamond Kings is the Nolan Ryan “3000 Strikeouts” milestone card. At the time, Ryan was breaking records left and right and cementing his status as perhaps the greatest strikeout pitcher in baseball history. The red-bordered parallel variation of his “3000 K” feat is among the scarcest and most demanded Ryan cards on the market. High grades of this parallel fetch prices well above $1,000. But even a well-centered mint example of the base version can sell for $500 or more due to Ryan’s immense accomplishments and legendary player status. It’s considered one of his most iconic and definitively “superstar” cards from the peak of his incredible career in the late 1980s.

While not quite as valuable as Griffey Jr. or Ryan’s prestigious cards, another highly sought after ’89 Diamond Kings is the Frank Thomas rookie. “The Big Hurt” went on to have a Hall of Fame caliber career with the Chicago White Sox and his rookie card from this set remains a staple in virtually any collection focusing on stars from the 1990s. Thomas was already displaying his mammoth power potential in his rookie season of 1990 and Diamond Kings perfectly portrays the athleticism and strength in his 6’5″ 250 lbs frame. Higher graded examples have sold for $500+, though $200-300 is more typical for a well-centered rookie Thomas in mint condition. It’s among the most iconic and valuable rookie cards for the slugger.

The Kirby Puckett rookie from 1989 Diamond Kings also garners considerable demand, though typically fetching slightly less than the Frank Thomas version. Puckett was already well established as a fan favorite and star center fielder for the Minnesota Twins by 1989, but his rookie season was 1985 and that earlier RC remains the true key. Still, Puckett had just led the Twins to a World Series title in ’87 and the excitement surrounding him is palpable on this vibrant Diamond Kings issue. Expect to pay $150-200 for a niceexample, with the all-time great’s untimely passing in 2006 further fueling collector interest in objects tied to his career.

Other big names with valuable, iconic cards in the 1989 Diamond Kings set include Roger Clemens, Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith and Barry Bonds. Clemens’ base card isn’t quite as coveted as his elite rookie from Fleer or his post-season heroics highlighted on later issues. But it remains a recognizable piece of the Rocket’s ascendancy as the most dominating pitcher of the 1980s and ’90s. In high grade it can fetch $75-100. Boggs’ card celebrates his dominance of the AL batting title chase throughout the late ’80s on the Boston Red Sox. It’s aesthetically pleasing and a key piece in any Boggs collection at $50-75. Ozzie Smith was already “The Wizard” for nearly a decade by ’89 and Diamond Kings presents him in all his back-flipping glory – expect to pay $60-80.

The 1989 Barry Bonds rookie card from Diamond Kings rounds out the true premium, high-value cards from the set. While not his true “rookie” from 1986 Topps, Bonds was already a rising star in just his third MLB season and showed flashes of the terrifying power he would fully unleash later on. The photography nicely captures his physical tools that would make him arguably the greatest pure hitter of all-time. High grades have reached $500 due to the rarity of a Bonds RC, but $200-300 is more common in mint condition prices today. It stands as one of the most desirable cards for the legendary slugger in the pre-Giants portion of his career.

The 1989 Diamond Kings set broke new ground by focusing only on baseball’s top talents and key rookie issues. Cards like Ken Griffey Jr., Nolan Ryan, Frank Thomas, Kirby Puckett and Barry Bonds rookie have endured as premier investment pieces from the checklist decades later. While not quite in the same elite tier as flagship brands, Diamond Kings captured young superstars and milestones in visually stunning fashion befitting of its premium concept. For devoted players from the late 80s and early 90s, it holds a very special place at the core of their collections.

MOST EXPENSIVE 1981 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1981 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable sets from the golden era of the sport. While it may not be as well known or sought after as sets from the late 1950s or early 1960s, the ’81 Topps issue contains several ultra-rare rookie cards that have broken auction records and rank among the priciest collectibles in the hobby. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most valuable cards from this set and why they command such high prices in the marketplace.

One of the undisputed kings of the ’81 Topps set is the Fernando Valenzuela rookie card (card #530). As one of the sport’s first true Latin American superstars, Fernando Mania took Los Angeles and the nation by storm in 1981 by winning Rookie of the Year and the NL Cy Young Award. His iconic rookie card is among the most iconic and valuable in the entire hobby. In near-mint to mint condition, examples regularly sell for $1,000 or more at auction due to their rarity and significance in capturing a phenomenal rookie season. A PSA 10 example, representing the highest possible certified grade, sold for a record $31,620 back in 2016. Valenzuela’s rookie is undoubtedly the crown jewel of the ’81 issue.

Another mega-expensive card is the Cal Ripken Jr. rookie (card #494). Before Ripken established himself as one of baseball’s all-time greats by breaking Lou Gehrig’s famous consecutive games played streak, his early baseball cards were overlooked and under-appreciated. Collectors have come to recognize Ripken’s importance to the sport and the value of capturing his rookie season on cardboard. PSA 10 examples routinely go for $4,000-$6,000 or more at auction nowadays. Even PSA 9 copies in amazing condition sell for $1,500+. Ripken’s ’81 rookie joined Valenzuela’s as one of the true blue-chip cards from this iconic set.

While not a true rookie card, the Mark McGwire insert card (card #I104) from the 1981 Topps Traded set holds great significance as one of the earliest McGwire cards available. In the pre-steroid era, McGwire was already showing signs of his prodigious power with 49 home runs in his first two major league seasons. High-grade versions have sold for over $2,000 in recent years as collectors appreciate getting in early on one of the game’s most prolific sluggers before steroid allegations tainted his legacy. An incredibly scarce PSA 10 brought $6,075 at Goldin Auctions in January 2021, a new record price for this notable McGwire insert.

In addition to stars, the ’81 Topps set also contains a key rookie card that has only increased in demand over the decades – that of Hall of Famer Tony Gwynn. While he may not attract the prices of some others, Gwynn’s rookie (card #213) still holds great value considering his legendary career and standing as one of the best hitters in baseball history. High-grade PSA 9 copies can reach $800-900, while a flawless PSA 10 is valued north of $1,500. The card captured the start of a stellar 20-year career that saw Gwynn win 8 batting titles and cement his status as a San Diego icon.

The 1981 Topps set also provides some other noteworthy rookie cards of players who went on to have solid careers, such as Bret Saberhagen (#534), PSA 10 examples ~$500), Bobby Grich (#212, PSA 9 $150), Lee Smith (#534, PSA 9 $100), and Ozzie Smith (#238, PSA 9 $150). While not in the samegalaxy pricewise as the superstars, these cards still holdcollector appeal for those aiming to completesome of the key rookies from the early 1980s.

In addition, ’81 Topps introduced short prints that became notoriously difficult to find in packs. Some examples that have appreciably valuable include Ryne Sandberg (#209, PSA 9 $175), Lonnie Smith (#365, PSA 9 $100), and Steve Garvey (#91, PSA 9 $125). For die-hard Dodgers collectors, the Jeff Reardon (#542) short print rookie also holds interest despite modest values in the $50-$75 range. The scarcity innate to these tough-to-find short prints adds an element of rarity that collectors enjoy pursuing decades later.

While it lacks the true vintage appeal of its 1950s/60s predecessors, the 1981 Topps baseball card set deserves recognition among aficionados for chronicling great players and moments from that era. Keys like the Fernando, Ripken, and McGwire rookies set the top of the value pyramid, but supporting hits like the Gwynn, Saberhagen and short prints provide diversified collectability as well. For capturing the early days of future superstars in pristine condition, high-grade examples from the ’81 issue will continue drawing serious interest from the most discerning investors and vintage collectors for years to come.

BEST BASEBALL CARDS AT WALMART

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Walmart has been a destination for baseball card collectors and enthusiasts for decades. With thousands of stores nationwide and a massive selection both in-store and online, Walmart offers collectors access to a wide variety of baseball cards at affordable prices. Whether you’re looking for packs, boxes, or individual cards from the latest releases or vintage sets from the past, Walmart has you covered.

In recent years, Walmart has really upped their baseball card game. They now carry exclusive retail releases, host in-store card breaks and events, and even have a dedicated baseball card buying website. For the casual collector or someone just starting out, Walmart is a great one-stop-shop to build your collection. For the serious collector, Walmart’s selection and prices are hard to beat.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the best baseball card options currently available at Walmart:

2021 Topps Series 1 & 2 Baseball – The flagship Topps set is always a fun rip and Walmart carries both the Series 1 and Series 2 releases from this year. You can find blaster and hanger packs starting around $20, as well as jumbo box breaks that are hosted in many stores. This set features stars like Fernando Tatis Jr. and Ronald Acuña Jr.

2021 Topps Chrome Baseball – Chrome parallels are highly sought after by collectors and Walmart carries jumbo box breaks of this shiny parallel release. Chrome cards tend to carry a premium, so these in-store breaks are a cost-effective way to try and pull valuable refractors and color parallels.

2021 Topps Heritage Baseball – Paying homage to classic designs of the past, Heritage is a fan-favorite set. Walmart has blasters, hangers, and jumbo boxes of this retro-styled release that features unique photographic techniques.

2021 Topps Opening Day Baseball – This affordable retail-exclusive set from Topps is perfect for new collectors. Walmart sells Opening Day blasters loaded with inserts and parallels for under $15.

2021 Topps Allen & Ginter’s Baseball – A truly unique set, A&G features players alongside artists, authors, and other notables. You can find A&G blasters, hangers, and jumbo boxes at Walmart that are fun to rip for the surprise cameos on each card.

2021 Topps Triple Threads Baseball – Walmart hosts in-store Triple Threads jumbo box breaks for this high-end release. Triple Threads is known for 1/1 patch autos that can fetch thousands, making these breaks exciting to participate in.

2021 Topps Project 70 Baseball – Celebrating the 70th anniversary of Topps, Project 70 features impressive photo variations. Walmart carries jumbo box breaks of this limited release.

2021 Topps Now Real-Time Moments – Topps Now allows you to collect up-to-the-minute highlights. Walmart sells monthly rack packs of these instantly date-stamped cardboard moments.

2021 Panini Prizm Baseball – The ultra-modern Prizm parallels are a collector favorite. Walmart offers Prizm blasters, hangers, and jumbo boxes to chase the coveted rainbow foil cards.

2021 Bowman Baseball – The venerable Bowman brand highlights top prospects. Walmart sells jumbo box breaks and blasters/hangers of this prospect-laden release.

2021 Stadium Club Baseball – Known for its elegant photography, Stadium Club is a visually stunning set. Walmart carries blasters and jumbo boxes of this premium release.

2021 Topps Archives Baseball – Walmart has blasters and jumbo boxes of Archives, which recreates classic designs from the past like ’87, ’92, etc. A fun throwback set.

In addition to new releases, Walmart also stocks a large vintage card selection both in-store and online. You can find unopened wax packs, boxes and sets from the 1980s all the way back to the early 1950s at Walmart. They also carry individual vintage cards from stars of eras past, often graded, to build your collection.

Walmart’s exclusive online baseball card site at walmart.com/sportscards allows you to browse even more new and vintage options as well. They also frequently run online-only promotions like mystery packs and flash sales. The site makes it easy to have cards shipped directly to your door.

Whether you’re an avid collector or just starting out, Walmart offers a baseball card selection and prices that are tough to beat. With new releases, exclusive products, vintage wax and singles, plus in-store events – Walmart has collectors covered from beginner to elite levels. Their massive retail presence nationwide also provides easy access to the hobby.