BASEBALL SITUATIONAL CARDS

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Baseball situational cards, also known as baseball situation cards, are index cards or sheets that baseball coaches and managers use to outline specific in-game scenarios and the optimal strategic decisions and plays for those scenarios. Situational cards have become a staple tool in baseball coaching over the past few decades as analytics and advanced stats have infiltrated the sport. While every team’s situational cards differ in specifics, they generally aim to provide quick references for strategic decisions in common in-game situations based on statistical analysis.

Situational cards first began emerging in the 1970s and 1980s as baseball embraced sabermetrics and teams started analyzing their own statistical trends and opponents’ tendencies. Early adopters like Billy Martin with the Oakland A’s and Earl Weaver with the Baltimore Orioles were known for meticulously tracking their own stats as well as opponents’ to gain strategic advantages. As stats grew more sophisticated through the 1980s and 1990s, tracking situational probabilities became more prevalent. Managers could now make data-backed decisions on everything from pitch selection to defensive shifts to pinch hitting.

Modern situational cards reflect the immense statistical analysis that underpins today’s MLB front offices. A typical set of cards will break the game down situation by situation, often delineating by counts, bases occupied, outs, inning, and other factors. For example, there may be a card solely focused on what to do as a team batting with runners on first and second with no outs in a late inning. The card lists the statistical likelihood of various outcomes like singles, doubles, caught stealings, etc. based on team and player stats as well as recommended strategic moves.

Some of the most common situational scenarios addressed on modern cards include: leading or trailing in the late innings, bases loaded strategies, sacrifice bunt situations, stolen base probabilities, pitch selection with runners on, defensive positioning with certain hitters at the plate, and leverage index guidance for high or low leverage at-bats. Advanced metrics like win probability added, win expectancy, and other sabermetric stats power the recommendations. The goal is to maximize run expectancy and minimize risk in any given scenario based on cold, hard numbers.

While the specifics vary team to team, most MLB clubs employ a similar process for developing their situational card book. Advance scouts and analysts pore over mountains of internal and opponent data throughout the season, with a focus on the most frequent in-game situations. In addition to overall stats, they’ll zero in on splits like home/road, day/night, with runners on, against certain pitchers, and more. This information is constantly updated and synthesized into recommendation sheets. Managers and coaches then consult the cards in real-time to make optimal strategic choices in each scenario.

Some teams even take situational card consulting a step further. For example, the Tampa Bay Rays are known for employing iPads loaded with their proprietary “Book of plays” app during games. Coaches can pull up any scenario on the fly and get immediate recommendations. Meanwhile, the Houston Astros were rumored to have developed an elaborate system of wearable buzzers and signals to covertly relay signs from their cards to players in real time. Their sign-stealing scandal brought the strategic value of situational cards into the national spotlight.

While the analytics are invaluable, situational cards have some limitations. For one, they are only as good as the underlying data, which may be imperfect or change over time. They cannot account for intangibles like momentum shifts, recent performances, or the “feel” of a game that experienced managers rely on. Overreliance on the cards can also stifle creativity. That said, when used judiciously to inform decisions rather than dictate them, situational cards are a powerful tool for any baseball staff looking to gain an edge through analytics-based strategies. As data-driven baseball continues advancing, situational cards will remain a fixture for optimizing in-game management.

Situational cards have evolved into an essential part of strategic baseball since emerging in the 1970s. Fueled by ever-growing statistical analysis, today’s MLB clubs employ intricate card books breaking down the game scenario by scenario based on mountains of internal and opponent data. While not perfect, the cards provide a valuable quick reference for coaches and managers to make optimized strategic decisions in the most frequent in-game situations based on cold, hard numbers. As long as analytics continue influencing baseball, situational cards will remain a staple tool for gaining competitive advantages through data-backed strategic planning.

DONRUSS 2023 BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE

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The 2023 Donruss baseball card set is one of the most anticipated releases each year from the vintage brand. While still early in the year, here is an in-depth price guide for the key rookie cards and veterans from the flagship Donruss release based on current secondary market sales:

Bobby Witt Jr. Base RC – $80-100
The top rookie in the 2023 Donruss set is Royals star Bobby Witt Jr., who had a stellar debut season. His base rookie card is currently selling in the $80-100 range on eBay. As one of the top prospects from the 2022 draft class to make an immediate impact, Witt’s rookie cards have plenty of long term upside.

Julio Rodriguez Base RC – $60-80
Mariners centerfielder Julio Rodriguez had one of the best rookie seasons in recent memory and is considered a future superstar. His Donruss base RC is trading hands for $60-80 currently. Rodriguez has five tools and continues to improve, boding well for the long term value of his rookie collection.

Adley Rutschman Base RC – $50-70
Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman was the top prospect in baseball and after a strong debut, his stock is rising. The future star catcher’s base Donruss rookie sells in the $50-70 range today but that price is expected to climb as he establishes himself as an elite talent.

Bobby Miller Base RC – $30-50
One of the top pitching prospects to debut in 2023 was Dodgers righty Bobby Miller, who has electric stuff. As a high profile pitching prospect, his base Donruss RC commands $30-50 right now but that figure could grow substantially with future success.

Spencer Strider Base RC – $25-40
Braves flamethrower Spencer Strider broke out as one of the best rookie pitchers in baseball in 2023, cementing his place in the rotation. His Donruss base RC is priced in the $25-40 range currently based on early production. Strider has the potential for much higher prices with continued dominance.

Oneil Cruz Base RC – $20-30
Pirates superstar prospect Oneil Cruz brought his immense power to the show in 2023. At 6’7 with prodigious tools, his Donruss base RC sells in the $20-30 range as collectors wait for him to put it all together at the MLB level. Huge upside here long term.

Jack Leiter Base RC – $15-25
As the #2 overall pick in 2021, Rangers pitcher Jack Leiter came with sky high expectations. After an up and down rookie campaign, his Donruss base RC can be found for $15-25 while the market waits for improvements. Leiter’s pedigree and stuff keep his cards intriguing.

Max Muncy – $10-15
Veteran Dodgers slugger Max Muncy remains one of the most productive power hitters in baseball. His base Donruss cards hold steady value in the $10-15 range. Muncy continues putting up All-Star caliber seasons and his cards reflect that stability.

Aaron Judge – $8-12
It’s hard to find a more dominant player in 2023 than Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge following his historic 62 home run season. Not surprisingly, his Donruss base card holds value in the $8-12 range as one of the premier stars in the game today.

Mookie Betts – $7-10
Dodgers superstar Mookie Betts is a perennial MVP candidate and five tool star. His Donruss base cards trade hands for $7-10, reflecting his elite status and consistent production at the plate and in the field year after year.

Jacob deGrom – $5-8
When healthy, Mets ace Jacob deGrom is arguably the best pitcher on the planet. Even with recent injury issues, his Donruss base card remains in the $5-8 range thanks to his otherworldly stuff and track record of dominance. Huge upside if he stays on the mound.

Sandy Alcantara – $4-6
Marlins workhorse Sandy Alcantara emerged as the NL Cy Young frontrunner in 2022 with a historic season. His Donruss base is priced fairly at $4-6 given his combination of incredible durability and production. Alcantara looks like a surefire star.

Shane Bieber – $3-5
Guardians ace Shane Bieber was the AL Cy Young winner in 2020 and remains one of the most reliable arms in baseball. His Donruss base holds value in the $3-5 range. Bieber consistently pitches deep into games with top shelf stuff.

Juan Soto – $2-4
In what was a down year by his lofty standards, Nationals outfielder Juan Soto is still one of the most feared hitters in MLB. At just 23 years old, his Donruss base sells for $2-4 with his best seasons likely still ahead. Soto has true five tool superstar potential.

This covers some of the key 2023 Donruss rookies and veterans to watch based on current secondary market sales. With the season ongoing, prices will fluctuate based on player performance. Top rookies like Witt, Rodriguez and Rutschman offer the most upside as they establish themselves as future stars. Veterans like Judge, Betts and deGrom provide stability due to proven track records at the highest level. The 2023 Donruss release is shaping up to be another highly collectible set from the hobby’s most storied brand.

BASEBALL CARDS OKLAHOMA

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Baseball cards have been an integral part of American culture and childhood for generations. Though the baseball card industry has evolved over the decades, these collectibles remain popular throughout the United States, including in Oklahoma. Whether someone is a casual collector or a serious investor, baseball cards offer fun and insight into America’s pastime.

Some of the earliest history of baseball cards in Oklahoma can be traced back to the late 19th century when cigarette companies like American Tobacco began inserting cards into their packs as a marketing technique. These included some of the earliest depictions of stars from Major League Baseball franchises. While Oklahoma was still a territory at the time and before the beginnings of organized minor league baseball, interest was growing in the professional game across the country. Kids and adults alike enjoyed collecting and trading these primitive cardboard pieces of sports nostalgia.

Through the early 1900s, baseball cards continued to be packaged with cigarettes and gained wider popularity. Oklahoma had achieved statehood in 1907 and the first semipro and minor league teams began to pop up across the state in cities like Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Muskogee, and Enid. Fans could eagerly follow local squads while also collecting cards of notable MLB players. The 1920s brought the rise of more durable gum and candy cards inserted by companies like American Caramel, Goudey Gum, and Play Ball. More intricate photographs and statistical information elevated the hobby.

After a lull during World War II, the 1950s were a golden age for baseball cards in Oklahoma and beyond. Topps gained dominance by being the lone producer after competitors withdrew from the business. Iconic sets from this period like 1952 Topps, 1956 Topps, and 1959 Topps are still considered some of the most valuable in the world. They depict the era of legends like Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, and Mickey Mantle. In Oklahoma, interest was high while minor league franchises thrived in cities across the state from Tulsa to Oklahoma City.

The 1960s saw innovation and color arrive to baseball cards. Topps issued its first color photographs in 1964. In 1967, the firm introduced a design change with a woodgrain background that remained standard for over a decade. Oklahoma fans enjoyed following homegrown MLB talent like Bob Prince, Dean Stone, and Mickey Lolich while keeping up collections. Minor league ball parks witnessed strong attendance and new squads continued sprouting up. The advent of expansion in the majors led to commemorative cards of the new franchises including the Seattle Pilots.

In the 1970s, competition from Fleer and new products like oddball issues and annuals helped maintain interest among Oklahoma collectors. A boom in stratospheric sports card prices also began during this period, signaling the rise of serious investors seeking scarce vintage pieces for financial gain rather than just casual collecting by kids. The Oklahoma City 89ers were a perennial powerhouse in the American Association minor league. Landmark MLB achievements shown on cards included Hank Aaron breaking Babe Ruth’s home run record and Nolan Ryan’s record setting strikeouts.

The junk wax era of the 1980s-1990s, named for an overproduction of cards that drastically lowered values, was still an extremely active time for the hobby in Oklahoma. While serious collectors look down on much of the output, kids greatly enjoyed the affordability of complete sets from Donruss, Fleer, Score, and Ultra. Newer trading card non-sports brands like Garbage Pail Kids also found popularity. In Oklahoma City, the 89ers gained notoriety through stars like Ken Griffey Jr. before moving to Wichita. The birth of premium inserts in the late 80s presaged the returns of scarcity and excitement.

In more modern times, Oklahoma collectors and fans have seen massive changes to the baseball card industry. Mega companies like Upper Deck and Leaf arose and collapsed. Trading online replaced brick-and-mortar stores. Premium memorabilia cards brought back limited runs and high price tags. The Oklahoma City Dodgers arrived as the current Triple-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1998, fueling interest. Stores in Oklahoma that were mainstays like Sports Collector’s Universe in Tulsa have since shuttered. Baseball cards remain a treasured artifact of sports, history, art, and nostalgia throughout the state. Whether seeking rare gem Mint cards or just enjoying the affordable fun of opening a pack, Oklahomans have shown their love of “America’s Pastime” through collection of these cardboard treasures from over a century.

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1993 BOWMAN BASEBALL BEST CARDS

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The 1993 Bowman baseball card set is one of the most popular and valuable vintage card releases of all time. While not quite as iconic or expensive as early Fleer and Topps issues, the 1993 Bowman set ushered in a new era of collecting and included several rookie cards that would go on to have Hall of Fame careers. Containing over 700 cards, the 1993 Bowman baseball card set was produced during the height of the 1990s baseball card boom. While numerous insert sets and parallels were introduced in later years, the 1993 Bowman base cards remain a highly sought after piece of collectors’ histories. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top rookies, stars, and most valuable cards from the 1993 Bowman baseball release.

Perhaps the single most valuable and recognizable card from the 1993 Bowman set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the greatest players of his generation, Griffey’s rookie is arguably the most iconic of the 1990s. With his sweet left-handed swing and effortless defense in center field, Griffey was an absolute thrill to watch in his prime. His rookie card has been climbing steadily in value over the past few decades. Near mint, PSA 10 graded copies now trade hands for upwards of $10,000. Even well-centered, lower graded examples still fetch hundreds if not over $1,000. Griffey’s dynamic smile, youthful exuberance, and Hall of Fame career make this one of the most desirable rookie cards in the hobby.

Another hugely valuable rookie card from 1993 Bowman is Frank Thomas. Like Griffey, “The Big Hurt” established himself as one of baseball’s true elite players and greatest hitters of all time over the course of his 19 year career. Winning back-to-back MVP awards in 1993 and 1994 sealed Thomas’ status as a true superstar. High grade PSA 10 Thomas rookies have broken the $5,000 price point in recent years. Even in PSA 8 condition, this card still commands over $500. No hitter dominated the game in the 90s quite like Frank Thomas and his rookie card remains a must-have for White Sox and card collecting aficionados alike.

Derek Jeter’s rookie card from 1993 Bowman is also extremely sought after, though not quite as expensive as Griffey or Thomas just yet. That said, Jeter’s star power and unparalleled winning pedigree as the longtime Yankees shortstop and captain has elevated his cards substantially post-retirement. PSA 10 Jeter rookies recently crossed the $4,000 mark, with PSA 8s bringing $300-600 still. As one of the greatest offensive shortstops in history and a surefire Hall of Famer, interest in Jeter’s early cardboard is only going to increase over time. His effortless silhouette swing and stellar defensive skills made him a fan favorite for two decades in the Bronx.

In addition to future Hall of Famers, 1993 Bowman also included rookie cards for other stars like Cliff Floyd, Jason Bere, Billy Ashley, and Bobby Hughes. The set is also notable for including cards depicting childhood photographs and hometown stats for future stars like Jim Thome, Nomar Garciaparra, Todd Helton, and Jason Varitek. From an investment standpoint, high grade rookie cards for these accomplished players have also gained value in recent years.

Veteran star cards like Barry Bonds, Cal Ripken Jr., Mo Vaughn, Kirby Puckett, Jeff Bagwell, and Roberto Alomar also hold appeal for collectors in the 1993 Bowman set due to their playing accolades. Bonds in particular routinely puts up big numbers in auction due to his all-time home run record and place in baseball history, despite character controversies later in his career. Near-mint PSA 10 copies of Barry Bonds’ 1993 Bowman card have reached as high as $1,500-2,000.

In terms of chase variants and inserts, the 1993 Bowman Alex Rodriguez printing plate is exceptionally rare and valuable. Only five are believed to still exist according to Beckett researchers. It would easily be worth a 5-figure sum if ever offered openly for sale. Gold foil parallels are also highly sought after for stars like Bonds, Griffey Jr. and Frank Thomas. The 1993 Bowman Traded set that featured updated player photos from mid-season trades also holds great appeal to dedicated collectors.

The 1993 Bowman baseball card set holds a deserved reputation as one of the finest issues of the 1990s collecting boom. Featuring rookie cards and prospects that would go on to have Hall of Fame careers, it also captures an exciting period of baseball history leading up to the 1994 strike truncated season. With its large set checklist size and varied insert variants, 1993 Bowman holds appeal for both investors and casual fans. Graded specimens of its biggest stars like Griffey Jr., Frank Thomas, Derek Jeter, Barry Bonds and more will undoubtedly retain and grow in value for dedicated collectors.

BASEBALL POP UP CARDS

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Baseball pop up cards have been a fun tradition and collector’s item for decades. These unique cards use intricate die cuts and folds to create a three-dimensional image that pops up off the surface of the card. While they first gained popularity in the late 19th century, baseball pop up cards are still being created today and remain a nostalgic connection to America’s pastime.

Some of the earliest known pop up cards date back to the 1880s when lithographic printing techniques advanced enough to allow for complex die cuts. These early pop up cards often featured patriotic images or holiday themes. It was not long before baseball emerged as a favorite subject matter. As the young sport of professional baseball grew rapidly in popularity during the late 1800s, trading cards became common promotional items for tobacco companies, candy makers, and other sponsors looking to capitalize on baseball mania.

Naturally, pop up cards depicting baseball players and scenes from the game started being produced in the 1890s. One of the earliest known examples is an 1898 Goodwin & Company cigarette card featuring a lithographed image of Cap Anson that pops up when unfolded. Other early baseball pop up cards showcased whole teams or stadium scenes that would spring to life in three dimensions. While production of these collectibles was still somewhat crude by today’s standards, they captivated children and adults alike with their novelty.

The golden age of baseball pop up cards is widely considered to be the 1930s-1950s. During this time, advances in lithography and die cutting allowed for incredibly detailed and vibrant pop ups. Major tobacco brands like Fleer, Topps, and Bowman produced elaborate sets that captured the stars and moments from each season. Icons like Babe Ruth, Ted Williams, and Jackie Robinson were frequently featured on cards with intricate multi-layered designs. Stadiums, uniforms, and action shots were also commonly recreated in three dimensions.

The level of artistry in these mid-century pop ups was truly impressive. Some cards had upwards of 10 layers that would precisely fold out when the back tab was pulled. Different materials like foil were sometimes incorporated as well to make certain elements, like baseball stitching, really pop off the card stock. While most were given out as promotional items with chewing gum or tobacco purchases, these vintage baseball pop ups have become highly sought after collectibles today fetching hundreds or even thousands of dollars depending on condition and player featured.

In the post-war era of the 1950s, the golden age of baseball cards began to wind down as concerns grew over marketing to children. Pop ups continued being produced on a smaller scale into the 1960s, often with a nostalgic retro design. Fleer even experimented with “Super Cards” in the early 1960s that had movable parts like batting stances that could be adjusted. But the complex nature and higher production costs of pop ups meant they were never mass produced like the simpler cardboard inserts of the time.

The nostalgia and novelty of baseball pop up cards endured, though. In the 1970s and 1980s, companies released sets aimed at adult collectors that recreated the intricate designs of the past. New holographic techniques were sometimes incorporated as well. As the collectibles market boomed in the late 20th century, vintage baseball pop ups from the 1930s-1950s gained immense value. Auctions saw some of the rarest examples sell for tens of thousands of dollars.

Today, while not as common as standard baseball cards, pop ups continue to be produced on a limited basis. Manufacturers like Topps, Leaf, and Panini issue high-end sets targeting serious collectors. These modern pop ups take advantage of new printing technologies to achieve photo-realistic quality and motion effects not possible in the early 1900s. Nostalgia also remains a big influence, with many sets paying homage to the classic designs of the past. Independent artists create one-of-a-kind custom baseball pop ups as works of art.

For devoted collectors and fans of the history of American sports memorabilia, baseball pop up cards retain a magic all their own. The ability to bring static lithographed images to life with intricate folds evokes the sense of wonder many felt seeing their first pop up as a child. Even after over a century since the earliest known examples, these unique collectibles still capture imaginations and preserve the legacy of baseball’s greatest eras in a three-dimensional format. Whether showcasing past legends or modern stars, baseball pop up cards remain a nostalgic link to the development of our national pastime.

1992 CLASSIC BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1992 baseball card season is considered a classic year in the hobby, as it featured some of the game’s biggest stars and rookies from that era. Understandably, many 1992 cards have grown substantially in value over the past few decades. This year marked Ken Griffey Jr.’s reign as “The Kid” in his baseball card primes and featured the rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Pedro Martinez and John Smoltz. It was also the final year for Topps’s classic design before transitioning to a modernized style in 1993. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top 1992 baseball cards and analyze what factors influence their valuations today.

One of the crown jewels from any vintage baseball card set is the Ken Griffey Jr. Upper Deck rookie card. Widely considered one of the most iconic rookie cards ever made, Griffey’s electric smile and fluid swing translated perfectly to cardboard at the beginning of his stellar career. PSA 10 Near Mint copies of this card in recent years have sold for over $10,000. Even well-preserved non-graded examples can fetch $1,000+ due to Griffey’s popularity and status as a true five-tool player during baseball’s revival in the 1990s. The Upper Deck brand added another layer of prestige and rarity as the Premier brand of its time before the sport card bubble burst.

Another standout rookie card from 1992 is Pedro Martinez’s Donruss issue. Arriving just ahead of his dominant peak years with the Montreal Expos and Boston Red Sox, Pedro imposed his will like few pitchers before or since. Near Mint PSA 10 versions of his rookie routinely trade hands for $3,000-$5,000 in today’s market. Even lower graded 8’s can sell for $500 or more. Martinez’s Hall of Fame career and electrifying stuff as a flamethrower make this one a gem for team and player collectors alike. He was one of the most thrilling hurlers to watch when at the top of his game.

John Smoltz also debuted in the 1992 set with an equally impressive 17-year career in the bigs. His Donruss RC in high grades moves for around $200-$400 due the Braves legend’s playoff exploits and Cy Young winning ways. The ’92 Donruss design remains a set favorite and gives collectors the opportunity to acquire stars for reasonable prices considering the modern inflated costs across the board. Frank Thomas, Tom Glavine, and Jeff Bagwell also had rookie issues in this set that achieve respectable values when preserved nicely.

Turning to veterans, the ’92 Topps set features some appealing chase cards too. The Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens rookie season update cards are desired for obvious reasons. Clemens’ is a particularly eye-catching visual as he stares down the camera in a Phillies uniform. High quality copies can exceed $100. The Ken Griffey Jr. and Greg Maddux Topps flagship RCs check in around $80-$150 depending on condition. But the true “short prints” like the Ivan Rodriguez and Ozzie Smith issues have six figure potential in mint condition.

Condition, of course, is king when assessing 1992 cards and what they may be worth. The fragile cardboard stock of the early ’90s lends itself well to wear from frequent handling as kids. This means finding examples still sealed in their original wax packs is very difficult and premium for collectors. Examples that have survived in pristine shape receive massive bonuses. The Griffey UD RC, for instance, jumps exponentially from a PSA 9 to a flawless mint PSA 10 grade. Minor flaws can downgrade a card’s value by 50% or more. It’s why third party grading provides necessary authentication and preservation benefits.

Outside of star players, 1992 also featured memorable team and franchise milestones that drive collector demand. The Toronto Blue Jays won the World Series that year, making contemporary Blue Jays cards more collectible. Kirby Puckett achieved his 2nd batting title as a member of the Twins. The Atlanta Braves won their first pennant since moving to Georgia. Parallel trends exist for under-the-radar short prints and oddball parallel issues from that season too. Variations like the Topps Traded set or rare promo parallels hold added appeal and intrigue for completionists.

The 1992 sport card season was truly a seminal one packed full of future Hall of Famers and iconic moments. After three decades of appreciation, its classic cardboard treasures have evolved into meaningful collectibles and investments for fans and speculators alike. Condition remains paramount, and the headliner rookie cards of Griffey, Pedro, Smoltz and others will likely continue their ascent for years to come. With its perfect storm of stars and design nostalgia, 1992 is cemented as a pinnacle year that still enthralls collectors today.

BRAVES BASEBALL CARDS 2023

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The 2023 baseball season was one of continued success for the Atlanta Braves franchise. Coming off their 2021 World Series championship, the Braves found ways to stay competitive despite facing challenges with injuries and free agent departures. Their resilient play throughout the year led them to yet another NL East division title and playoff appearance. As baseball card collectors looked ahead to the 2023 release season, there was great excitement surrounding the rookie cards and standout performers from this Atlanta ballclub.

One of the most highly anticipated rookie cards came from young starting pitcher Spencer Strider. After making his MLB debut in 2021, Strider seized an opening in the Braves rotation in 2023 and emerged as one of the best rookie pitchers in baseball. Posting a 2.67 ERA over 31 starts and 202 innings pitched, Strider struck out 202 batters and established himself as a future ace. His impressive rookie campaign made his 2023 Topps, Bowman, and Stadium Club cards some of the most sought after on the hobby market. Many believe Strider has the potential to develop into a true ace and perennial All-Star, giving his rookie cards strong long term value and investment potential.

Another Braves rookie generating buzz was outfielder Michael Harris II. After a brief cup of coffee in 2022, Harris claimed an everyday role in center field in 2023 and never looked back. The 21 year old hit .297 with 19 home runs and 64 RBI while playing Gold Glove caliber defense. Harris established himself as not just the Braves centerfielder of the present, but perhaps of the future as well. His sterling rookie campaign made cards from sets like Topps Chrome, Bowman Chrome, and Topps Finest some of the breakout rookie hits of the year. Many see All-Star upside in Harris and believe his cards could appreciate significantly if he continues developing into a true star player.

While rookies Strider and Harris stole much of the spotlight, the Braves continued to see strong production from established veterans as well. Shortstop Dansby Swanson had arguably the best season of his career, hitting .277 with 25 home runs and 96 RBI. The impending free agent put himself in position for a massive payday and raised the stock of his 2023 cards in the process. Fellow infielder Austin Riley also continued building on his breakout 2021 campaign. Riley clubbed 33 home runs and drove in 93 while hitting .301, cementing his status as one of baseball’s most feared sluggers. Both Swanson and Riley’s accomplishments made their flagship rookie cards from past years more desirable as collectors looked to add centerpiece cards of the Braves young core.

On the pitching side, Max Fried further solidified himself as the Braves ace after another excellent season. Across 32 starts, Fried posted a 2.48 ERA and threw 201 innings while continuing to miss bats. The impending free agent is seen by many as one of the top arms potentially available this winter. His continued strong play boosted the values of his rookie cards and made parallel and autograph cards from recent years more appealing investments. Meanwhile, veteran reliever Kenley Jansen cemented his Hall of Fame resume with his 400th career save, done as the Braves closer after inking a free agent deal. The milestone triggered a surge of interest in Jansen’s rookie cards from 2009 and 2010 Bowman issues.

While injuries slowed him at times, veteran first baseman Matt Olson still provided thump in the middle of the Braves order. Olson clubbed 34 home runs and drove in 111 in his first full season in Atlanta after being acquired in a blockbuster trade. The consistency and power Olson brought to the Braves lineup raised the profile of his flagship Topps cards from earlier in his career with the A’s. Veterans like Olson, Swanson, and Riley helped the Braves young core of Acuna, Harris, Strider and others remain in playoff contention all year. Their continued production made cards from their early careers more appealing to collectors.

In the end, the 2023 Braves fell just short of a repeat World Series title. But their gritty play and emergence of new young stars like Harris and Strider generated plenty of excitement that carried over into the baseball card marketplace. From prized rookie cards to investments in established veterans, Braves cards were a hot commodity as the 2023 release season got underway. With this talented roster, led by a mix of veterans and rising young talent, the future remains very bright in Atlanta. Their success on the field in 2023 translated directly to strong collector demand for Braves cards across the hobby.

BASEBALL CARDS LAS VEGAS STRIP

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Baseball cards have long been a popular collectible item across America. As Las Vegas grew into a major tourist destination starting in the mid-20th century, it was only natural that baseball card collecting would find its way to the Strip. Over the past several decades, the casinos, hotels, and attractions along Las Vegas Boulevard have played host to numerous baseball card conventions, memorabilia stores, and displays highlighting some of the rarest and most valuable cards in existence.

One of the earliest establishments to showcase baseball cards on the Strip was the Stardust Resort and Casino, which opened in 1958. The Stardust became known for its impressive collections of pop culture memorabilia, including autographed balls, bats, jerseys, photographs and, of course, vintage baseball cards. In the 1960s, the Stardust began holding annual sports memorabilia shows that would draw collectors from across the country. Several of the earliest major baseball card conventions were held at the Stardust, helping expose Las Vegas to the growing hobby.

As Las Vegas continued to expand in the 1970s, more hotels got in on displaying baseball collectibles. The Dunes hotel-casino had a sports memorabilia gallery for many years that was a popular attraction. The Aladdin Resort and Casino featured memorabilia from various sports in its casino area. Perhaps most notably, in 1979 billionaire hotel magnate Steve Wynn opened the Las Vegas Hilton hotel (now the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino). The Hilton had one of the first baseball card shops located within a Strip hotel. Operated by J.W. Sportscards, the shop gave visitors easy access to buying, selling, and trading cards amid their gambling excursions.

The 1980s saw additional baseball card conventions come to town. In 1984, the largest card show ever at that time was held at the Las Vegas Convention Center, drawing over 10,000 attendees. That same decade, the Imperial Palace hotel began hosting an annual National Sports Collectors Convention that featured extensive baseball card displays and signings by legendary players. Meanwhile, the Dunes and Stardust continued holding their own memorabilia shows. With so much activity, Las Vegas was fast becoming one of the top destinations nationwide for card collectors and dealers to congregate.

As the memorabilia industry grew in the 1990s, more specialized baseball card shops opened up and down the Strip. The Stratosphere Casino Hotel had a sports collectibles store for a number of years. The Las Vegas Hilton expanded its card business into a full memorabilia superstore. And the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino launched a sports collectibles gallery within its casino. Some of the rarest baseball cards ever found also exchanged hands in Las Vegas during this decade, such as a 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner card that sold for over $500,000.

In the 2000s, several new baseball card conventions set up shop in Las Vegas. The National Sports Collectors Convention continued at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Card Show began holding two annual events each year that occupied the entire Las Vegas Convention Center. These massive shows would see hundreds of dealers and tens of thousands of collectors descend on the city. Memorabilia stores also proliferated with joints like the Las Vegas Sports Card Company, the Sports Card Shop, and the Baseball Card Exchange operating prominently on the Strip.

The past decade has seen a few changes but baseball cards have remained deeply ingrained in the Las Vegas culture. While some shops have closed, others like the Sports Card Shop have endured for decades. Several Strip casinos like New York-New York and Planet Hollywood have maintained rotating baseball memorabilia exhibits. Meanwhile, conventions keep drawing collectors to town in huge numbers. The National Sports Collectors Convention remains one of the largest and most prestigious annual events for meeting dealers, finding rare pieces, and participating in big-money auctions.

Over the past 60+ years the casinos, hotels and attractions on the Las Vegas Strip have played a major role in the growth of baseball card collecting and dealing. Through prominent shops, impressive displays, and massive conventions, Las Vegas has truly become one of the epicenters for the baseball memorabilia industry. Its vibrant tourist economy and central location in the American Southwest have made it an ideal place for collectors and dealers to regularly congregate. And with new generations discovering the hobby every year, baseball cards figure to remain closely intertwined with the entertainment capital of Las Vegas for many years to come.

LIST OF RARE ERROR BASEBALL CARDS

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Some of the rarest and most coveted cards among collectors are printing or manufacturing errors on baseball cards. Errors can occur during the printing process and include things like missing text or photos, miscuts, double prints, off-center prints, and more. When errors happen, they result in cards that are one-of-a-kind and hold tremendous value simply due to their scarcity and error status. While errors aren’t meant to happen, when they do they can create some truly unique and valuable pieces of sports card history.

One of the holy grails of error cards is the 1915 Billy Mitchell model car error card from the E134 series. Only one of these is known to exist and it displays a model car instead of a baseball player photo on the front of the card. It is believed that during the printing process, the photo plate for the model car was accidentally used instead of the photo of pitcher Billy Mitchell. The find of this one-of-a-kind card in the 1980s created a huge sensation in the hobby. In 2013, it set the record as the highest price ever paid for a single baseball card when it sold at auction for $2.8 million, secured by collector Derek Jeter.

Another extremely rare error is the 1909-1911 T206 Jimmy Sheckard card that has “Sheckard” misspelled as “Shekard” on the front of the card. The typo occurred during the printing of the nameplate under the photo. Only a small handful are known to exist with this error. One in near mint condition sold at auction in 2016 for $96,000, showing just how much demand there is for flawless examples of significant errors like this iconic typo.

A beautiful and popular error is known as the 1967 Topps N.L. Champions Orioles card. It features an aerial photo of Memorial Stadium but mistakenly refers to the Orioles as N.L. Champions when they were actually champions of the American League that year. Approximately 10 are known to exist with this American/National League misprint. High grade specimens in the PSA 8-10 range regularly sell for $3,000-$5,000 each online.

Perhaps the most famous modern error card is the iconic 1992 Bowman Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card where the photo is noticeably off-center to the left side. When packs were initially released containing these off-center Griffey rookies, collectors started pulling them out to admire Junior’s stellar rookie season stats. Only then did they notice the blatant off-center photo. Though an error, demand for these became insane due to the rarity and mystique surrounding the phenom’s rookie card. Pristine PSA 10 graded examples have sold for over $20,000.

Another significant off-center error from the early ’90s is the 1990 Fleer Cris Carpenter rookie card, where the photo is dramatically shifted towards the left side of the card. It’s believed fewer than 10 perfectly cut and centered specimens exist. In 2017, one gem mint PSA 10 example sold for $12,500 given Carpenter’s notoriety and the extreme scarcity and eye-catching nature of the manufacturing flaw on his debut issue.

Rarer still is the 1939 Play Ball Dizzy Dean card that features an inverted image, with Dean appearing in a left-handed stance even though he was a right-handed pitcher. Only a handful are known to exist with this unusual backwards photo. One copy that earned a PSA 4 grade (due to edge wear and staining) still sold for $6,630 at auction in recent years, a true testament to the interest in vintage errors despite condition issues.

Some more notable modern miscuts that intrigue collectors include the 2003 Topps Jose Reyes rookie card missing the team logo along the left edge, the 2007 Topps David Wright card missing the player’s name, and the 2015 Topps Update Kris Bryant shortprint missing “Kris” from his first name. All command premiums in the $100s to low $1,000s range depending on centering and condition rarity.

There are always new errors being discovered too, like the 2020 Topps Update Luis Robert card that exists with his photo mysteriously missing, leaving just a blank white space. Only a small quantity are known with this truly unique photo absence. Specimens still in their original sealed pack command well over $1,000 on the secondary market.

As cards continue being produced each year in the billions, occasional blunders will likely occur. While frustrating for manufacturers, printing mistakes end up creating some of the most eye-catching and valuable collectibles over time for those who recognize errors for the true anomalies and historical oddities that they are. Condition census rarity alone often isn’t enough to propel certain cards into the stratosphere – a fantastic error can catapult even a mediocre player’s issue into the six or even seven-figure range depending on the significance and uniqueness of the flaw. Errors remind us that not all that is rare is beautiful, but beauty and significance are nonetheless in the eyes of the discerning collector.

BEST BASEBALL CARDS TO BUY FOR INVESTMENT

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When it comes to investing in baseball cards, there are certain cards that have proven to hold their value or increase substantially over time. While baseball cards can be a fun collectible, certain rare and iconic rookie cards in particular have emerged as smart long-term investments. It’s important to do thorough research, understand risks, and only invest amounts you can afford to lose. With that context in mind, here are some of the best baseball cards to consider buying if investing is a primary goal:

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle – Widely considered the most valuable baseball card in existence, ungraded PSA 8 copies have sold for over $2 million. The 1952 Topps set was the first widely distributed baseball card set and Mantle’s rookie card is the obvious crown jewel. Extremely few high-grade examples even exist, making this essentially the holy grail for serious collectors and investors.

1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner – As arguably the most famous trading card ever printed, the ultra-rare Wagner is the pinnacle that all other cards are compared to. Graded PSA 8 copies have sold for over $3 million. The story of its sudden rise in value is legendary, though finding an authentic, high-grade example today will likely cost hundreds of thousands, if not millions.

1957 Topps Hank Aaron – Aaron broke Babe Ruth’s all-time home run record and was one of the greatest sluggers ever. His iconic rookie card from his breakout ’57 season has increased steadily in value. PSA 8 copies have sold for over $100,000 in recent years. Like Mantle and Wagner, condition is absolutely critical to maximize return on this investment piece.

1952 Topps Willie Mays – Along with Mantle, Mays was one of the two greatest all-around players of the 1950s. His ’52 Topps rookie is highly coveted and has seen strong appreciation. High-grade copies in the $50,000+ range show how a PSA 8 or above can hold long-term value better than most other cards.

1969 Topps Nolan Ryan – As arguably the greatest strikeout pitcher ever, Ryan’s early career is best represented by his first Topps issue. Prices have jumped up over time to over $15,000 for a PSA 8. With 27 career no-hitters, Ryan’s legend continues to grow and attract new collectors.

1948 Leaf Ted Williams – Williams was one of baseball’s purest hitters and his ’48 Leaf rookie card is a top vintage pick. Condition is ultra-critical since the cardboard stock was prone to damage. PSA 8s have sold for $50,000+. Even lower grades command five-figure sums due to his iconic status.

1988 Score Griffey Jr. – Widely considered the best player of his generation, Griffey’s explosive rookie season made this one of the most sought-after modern issues. High-grade copies in the $4,000+ range show steady long-term appreciation. With his sweet swing and effortless talent, Griffey’s popularity endures to this day.

1986 Fleer Jordan – While not a baseball card, MJ’s iconic rookie basketball card broke cultural barriers and changed the collectibles industry forever. High-grade PSA 10s consistently sell for $10,000+. Even in lower grades, it’s proven to be one of the safest investments in cards over the past 30+ years.

1909-11 T206 Mathewson/Wagner – For a lower price point, the duo cards featuring Mathewson and Wagner provide exposure to two of the games earliest legends for a fraction of their individual singles. Higher grade examples in the $5,000+ range still show promise as blue-chip investments.

1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. – As the first Upper Deck baseball issue, this modern classic captured Griffey’s immense talent perfectly. PSA 10s have reached $4,000 due to strong demand. Upper Deck quality helped revive the industry and this card leads their renowned brand.

It’s also worth considering complete vintage sets like the 1952 Topps, 1909-11 T206, 1933 Goudey, or 1957 Topps. Entire authenticated and graded sets can be had for less than single premium cards but provide nice diversification. For modern sets, the 1987 Topps, 1989 Upper Deck, and 1991 Ultra are classics to research. Always buy from reputable auction houses, dealers with strong seller histories and never overpay based on hype alone. Condition, eye appeal and the track record of individual cards should be the primary focus when investing long-term in the baseball card market.

Proper storage and preservation is also critical to maintaining value over decades. It’s generally recommended to store valuable vintage and modern cards in acid-free holders like magnetic or screwdown cases in a cool, dry place away from direct light. Research replacement costs for insurance as valuable collections are sometimes targeted by thieves. Focusing on the long-term icons at the pinnacle of their respective eras and sports is your best bet for stable appreciation when investing in the baseball card market. Just be sure to collect only what you truly appreciate to better enjoy the ride!