BOWMAN 2023 BASEBALL CARDS PREVIEW

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The 2023 Bowman baseball card set is one of the most highly anticipated releases each year for collectors and fans. As the first major set to feature prospects and rookie cards of players that will debut in the upcoming season, Bowman gives a first look at the future stars of MLB.

This year’s Bowman set promises to be one of the deepest in recent memory in terms of star prospects. Headlining the rookie class is likely to be Cardinals catcher and 2019 first overall pick Andrew Jones. Jones made his MLB debut in 2022 and showed why he is considered a future superstar, hitting .280 with 13 home runs in 108 games. His prized rookie card is sure to be one of the chase cards in 2023 Bowman.

Another elite catching prospect that could debut in 2023 is Padres farmhand Luis Campusano. Once considered the top catching prospect in the minors, injuries slowed his progress but he hit .296 between Double-A and Triple-A in 2022. Campusano has plus power from both sides of the plate and should be near the top of San Diego’s prospect rankings. His Bowman rookie could be one to watch.

On the pitching side, Braves top prospect Michael Harris II made a strong MLB debut after being a standout in this year’s Bowman set. Fellow Braves hurler Spencer Strider also had a breakout rookie campaign that was previewed in 2022 Bowman. Strider’s prospect card jumped in value as he emerged as a future ace.

Some other top pitching prospects that may receive their first Bowman cards in 2023 include Druw Jones of the Braves, the #2 overall pick in 2022 and son of Andruw Jones. Jones has elite tools and could move quickly. Tigers lefty Jace Jung, the younger brother of Rangers third baseman Josh Jung, had a strong full season debut and may get his first card. Reds righty Hunter Greene had a solid rookie year and his prospect card could gain steam. White Sox prospect Garrett Crochet is another flamethrower to watch after missing 2022 due to injury recovery.

On the position player side, high school shortstop Termarr Johnson was taken 29th overall by the Red Sox and has star potential. Dodgers catcher Diego Cartaya is one of the best offensive catchers in the minors. Mariners outfielder Edwin Arroyo and Rangers third baseman Justin Foscue had breakout seasons and their prospect values increased. Cardinals outfielder Alec Burleson continued hitting at every level and may receive a Bowman rookie.

In terms of international prospects, keep an eye out for the first cards of Cuban infielder Lazaro Montes, signed by the Cubs for $3 million, and Dominican shortstop Robert Puason, signed by the Athletics for $5.1 million. Both have elite tools and could rise up prospect lists quickly.

When it comes to parallels and inserts, Bowman is known for its popular Chrome, Black, and Gold parallels along with hit prospects like Inception, Inception Velocity, and Sterling. Serial Numbered parallels like Green /50 and Orange /25 add to the chase. Autograph and memorabilia cards of top prospects like Jones, Campusano and the Jung brothers will be in high demand.

Bowman also features prospects from Japan with the Wander Franco Superfractor parallel being the biggest hit in recent years. Cards of current MLB stars in their prospect years like Shohei Ohtani add to the nostalgia of the set.

Release date for the 2023 Bowman baseball set is expected to be in late April or early May. Hobby boxes will contain 12 packs with 7 cards per pack. Jumbo boxes with 24 packs will also be available. As one of the first looks each year at the future of MLB, Bowman is a must-have for collectors looking to get cards of stars before they break out. With another elite rookie class on the horizon, 2023 Bowman is primed to be a highly popular and valuable set.

1990 CLASSIC BASEBALL CARDS PRICING

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The 1990 baseball card season featured iconic rookie cards and hall of fame talents entering their primes. Three decades later, many ’90 issues remain highly coveted by collectors. Let’s examine pricing trends and investment opportunities for several key 1990 baseball cards.

Perhaps the most sought-after ’90 rookie is Ken Griffey Jr’s Upper Deck card. Widely considered one of the most visually appealing cards ever produced, Griffey’s explosive talent was evident even as a 20-year-old that year. In pristine mint condition, his rookie routinely fetches well over $1000. Even well-worn copies often sell for $100-200 given Griffey’s icon status. Another coveted rookie is Gary Sheffield’s Score issue, which has grown in popularity in recent years. In top grades, Sheffield rookies can reach $400-500 but are more commonly $100-200 cards.

Among superstars entering their primes, Nolan Ryan’s 1990 Score card stands out. At age 43, Ryan was still dominating hitters despite being in the twilight of his career. His ’90 is one of the more iconic images from his later playing days. Pristine copies often sell for $300-400 and well-centered near-mint examples fetch $150-250. Another Hall of Famer, Kirby Puckett, also has a desirable ’90 Donruss issue where he is batting left-handed that usually sells in the $150-300 range depending on condition.

Rookies of future Hall of Famers like Edgar Martinez, Mike Piazza, and Frank Thomas also remain quite collectible from the ’90 set. Martinez’s Score RC in top condition can reach $150-200. Piazza’s Fleer and Score rookies usually sell between $75-150 depending on grade. And Thomas’ Pacific rookie, featuring his monster physique and baby face, has found increased popularity in recent years with gem mint copies commanding $300-400 and near-mint selling for $150-250.

Among star pitchers, the ’90 Donruss Tom Glavine and John Smoltz rookie cards retain strong prices. Glavine rookies in pristine condition can fetch $150-250 given his Hall of Fame credentials and longevity. Smoltz rookies have gained steam in recent years with Smoltz becoming a respected broadcaster after retiring. Near-mint Smoltz rookies sell between $75-150 consistently. Another hurler with a desire rookie is Todd Van Poppel’s Score issue which usually nets $50-100 for nicest examples despite Van Poppel not panning out as expected.

When it comes to league leaders, Rickey Henderson’s 1990 Upper Deck card stands alone. As arguably the greatest leadoff hitter and basestealer ever, Henderson’s iconic UD card is one of the most aesthetically pleasing vintage issues ever produced. In pristine mint condition, examples can reach $1000-1500 at auction. Even well-worn copies often sell around $200 given Henderson’s lofty status in the sport. Another star of that era, Wade Boggs, has an equally desirable ’90 Score RC that sells between $150-300 depending on its state of preservation.

Team sets from ’90 like Donruss, Score, and Fleer also contain several strong nostalgia components that maintain collector interest and prices. Complete commons sets in nice shape often sell for $75-150 online depending on the brand, with Donruss and Score sets tending towards the higher end. But star rookies, insert cards like UD’s Fencebusters parallel, chase cards like rare A-Rod issues from Score, and hall of famers remain the true keys from the 1990 season that demand top dollar and make complete sets more lucrative investments when obtained at fair prices.

While the junk wax era of the 1990s deflated values of many modern issues, certain vintage ’90s cards have proven to retain or escalate in worth. Rookies and chase cards featuring talents like Griffey, Thomas, Piazza, Glavine, and Henderson maintain six-figure values when pristine and strong mid-range prices even in well-loved condition. Complete ’90 brand sets can be satisfying collectors items at affordable levels too. So for savvy investors or those simply seeking a nostalgic basketball card collection, certain 1990 cards showcase staying power and offer tangible financial prospects decades later.

MOST EXPENSIVE TOPPS 1990 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1990 Topps baseball card set is one of the most highly sought after issues in the hobby due to some extremely valuable rookie cards that were included. While the entire set features designs, photos and players from that 1980s/early 90s baseball era, there are a handful of cards that regularly break auction records and command five and six figure prices from avid collectors.

Perhaps the most well known and expensive card from the 1990 Topps set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the best player prospects ever, Griffey lived up to the hype by having a legendary 22-year career. His iconic swing and effortless play in center field made him a fan favorite and one of the faces of the sport for nearly two decades. Naturally, collectors sought after his rookie card issued by Topps in 1990.

In near mint to mint condition, Griffey’s rookie currently sells for $4,000-$6,000. Pristine gem mint 10 graded copies have sold for over $100,000, with one achieving a record $286,500 price in a January 2021 auction. What makes this card so expensive is Griffey’s status as a generational talent and career .284 hitter with 630 home runs. He was a surefire hall of famer from day one, increasing demand for anything related to his early career.

Chipper Jones is another superstar whose rookie card from the 1990 Topps set holds immense value. As the overall #1 pick in the 1990 draft by the Atlanta Braves, Jones went on to have a 19-year career hitting .303 with 468 home runs primarily as a third baseman. He was an 8-time all-star and won the 1999 NL MVP award.

Chipper’s rookie sells in the $2,000-4,000 range for ungraded copies, but mint 9s have brought in over $10,000. The highest price paid was $25,500 for a pristine PSA Gem Mint 10 example in January 2018. What makes the Jones card collectible is his elite talent, long and productive career spent entirely with one franchise (Atlanta Braves), and status as a lock for the baseball hall of fame.

While Griffey and Jones were the biggest stars, other valuable 1990 Topps rookies included Hall of Famers Frank Thomas, Jeff Kent, and Moises Alou. “The Big Hurt” Thomas blasted 521 career home runs batting .301 for his career mostly with the Chicago White Sox. Ungraded copies of his rookie sell for $1,500-2,500 but mint 9s have sold for over $6,000.

Jeff Kent spent 22 seasons in the majors smacking 377 homers primarily as a second baseman. His 1990 Topps RC ranges from $800-1,500 ungraded and $3,000+ for high-end versions. Moises Alou had a 17-year career hitting .303 with 335 home runs playing outfield for several clubs. His rookie card goes for $700-1,200 loose or $2,000+ graded.

In addition to star players, the 1990 Topps set also featured rookie cards of hall of fame managers Joe Torre and Tony La Russa. Torre won four World Series championships guiding the Yankees dynasty teams of the late 1990s. His rookie sells for around $400-700. La Russa managed for 33 seasons and is third all-time in wins – his 1990 RC goes for $300-500.

Other odds and ends from the 1990 Topps issue include the serial number parallel rookie cards. For example, a #1/949 Chipper Jones SNR sells graded for $15,000+. The Derek Jeter preview card inserted in Series 2 packs is valued around $500 ungraded, $2,000+ graded. The Alex Rodriguez rookie from this same insert set reaches $1,500 loose or $5,000+ graded very nicely.

While the 1990 Topps baseball card set as a whole remains extremely collectible and full of memorable players and photos from that era, it is the superstar rookie cards led by Ken Griffey Jr, Chipper Jones, Frank Thomas and others that make it one of the true titans among vintage issues. Three decades later these early cards depicting all-time player greats still attract six and seven figure prices from dedicated baseball collectors with deep pockets. Due to the all-time talents featured, the 1990 Topps set stands out as one of the most valuable vintage issues in the hobby.

MOST VALUABLE FLEER 1989 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1989 Fleer baseball card set is one of the most iconic and valuable releases from the late 1980s. Fleer issued cards for all major league players and had a different design and style compared to Topps, which was the dominant brand at the time. Several factors contributed to high prices for the top rookie cards and star players from the ’89 Fleer set in today’s vibrant collectibles market.

Perhaps the most valuable and sought-after card from 1989 Fleer is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey emerged as a true five-tool superstar for the Seattle Mariners and went on to have a Hall of Fame career. His rookie card became one of the most iconic and desirable in the hobby. In pristine mint condition, Griffey’s ’89 Fleer RC regularly sells for well over $10,000 and some elite examples in a PSA 10 gem have exceeded $100,000 at auction. Even in more moderately graded condition, this card still commands thousands due to Griffey’s legendary status.

Another rookie card sitting near the top of the value chart is Greg Maddux’s ’89 Fleer issue. Maddux went on to have an all-time great pitching career spanning two decades, winning 355 games and capturing four Cy Young awards. Like Griffey, Maddux’s rookie card saw a meteoric rise in demand and price in recent years. Graded examples in mint condition reach the $5,000-10,000 range depending on quality. For avid collectors seeking to own an integral piece of baseball history, these Maddux and Griffey RCs are truly coveted priorities.

In addition to rookie sensation cards, popular stars from the late 80s were well-represented in the ’89 Fleer set with high-value offerings. Perhaps most notable is the Mickey Mantle retired tribute card, featuring one of the sport’s icons who passed away in 1995. High-graded Mantle tribute cards routinely sell for $1,000-2,000 each thanks to his legendary status and the card’s effective design commemorating his retirement. Similarly, images of Boston legend Ted Williams and all-time hit king Pete Rose still captivate collectors and any pristine copies of their ’89 Fleer portraits achieve four-figure prices.

condition, this card still commands thousands due to Griffey’s legendary status.

While not rookies themselves, superstars Barry Bonds and Wade Boggs also had sought-after cards in the ’89 Fleer checklist that hold substantial value today. Bonds was already well on his way to a likely Hall of Fame induction and his intimidating image and career stats translate to high collector demand for sharp examples, even graded low as an PSA 8. Meanwhile, batting champion Boggs had amassed gaudy numbers by ’89 and any mint copies of his recognizable Fleer card crack the $1,000 threshold. These were dominant players at the time capturing the excitement of the late 80s era.

Condition, of course, is paramount when determining an accurate value of any vintage sports card. But highly graded versions of other ’89 Fleer stars like Ozzie Smith, George Brett and Nolan Ryan commonly reach the $500-1000 level. Even ascending young talents like Mark McGwire and Roberto Alomar had issues that today settle in the low hundreds range for top-notch specimens as interest has grown in stars of that generation.

For astute vintage collectors, 1989 Fleer also provides tremendous bargain opportunities relative to the legendary names featured. Players like Ryne Sandberg, Kirby Puckett, Ricky Henderson and more had incredible careers yet many of their sharp ’89 Fleer cards can still be acquired for $50-150 each depending on quality. This is partly because Fleer paralleled Topps as the “secondary” brand back then versus the monopoly Topps holds today. But quality examples are steadily gaining recognition from an expanding collector base three decades later.

The 1989 Fleer baseball card set disrupted the traditional baseball card landscape of its era and holds a special place incard collecting lore. Nostalgia for 1980s stars coupled with iconic rookie issues of future Hall of Famers like Griffey and Maddux fuel demand that shows no signs of slowing for this diverse checklist over thirty years later. With solid research and patience, savvy collectors can still find worthwhile ’89 Fleer gems at reasonable price points compared to other vintage sets.

1991 THE SPORTING NEWS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1991 The Sporting News baseball card set holds significance as it was the final issue of cards from the legendary publication. For decades, The Sporting News released an annual set that showcased Major League Baseball’s top players. By the early 1990s, the baseball card industry was experiencing major changes that would shape its future. Despite facing headwinds, the 1991 TSN set remains beloved by collectors today due to its historical relevance and inclusion of many star players.

Released at the end of the explosive junk wax era, the 1991 TSN set contained 242 cards plus additional checklist and record breaker inserts. It maintained The Sporting News’ traditional focus on highlighting statistical achievements over flashy photography or extras common in competing brands at the time. While not as graphically vibrant as competing issues from Fleer or Donruss, collectors appreciated TSN’s classic design sensibility. With manufacturers overproducing cards to meet demand, the 1991 TSN cards did not face significant risk of loss from the outset.

Not all was well for the baseball card industry by 1991. The prior five seasons saw explosive growth fueled by unlimited print runs that saturated the marketplace. This speculation bubble had already started bursting, leaving many late ’80s and early ’90s card issues nearly worthless. The glut of available cardboard changed collector attitudes toward accumulation versus investment. TSN’s final baseball card set would release into this declining atmosphere.

Still, the 1991 TSN cards hold value today by featuring future Hall of Famers and stars from the late 1980s/early 1990s. Rookie cards from talents like Jeff Bagwell, Tom Glavine, and Moises Alou made their paper debuts. Frank Thomas, Nolan Ryan, Cal Ripken Jr., and other legends graced the veteran checklist as well. The era’s most acclaimed players including Ken Griffey Jr., Barry Bonds, and Roger Clemens also received starring slots.

Among the most valuable individual 1991 TSN cards are the rookie issues for Jeff Bagwell and Tom Glavine. Bagwell’s dazzling rookie season propelled him to stardom, making his TSN debut one of the set’s key chase cards. In top graded Gem Mint condition, a Bagwell RC can sell for over $100. Glavine likewise took the league by storm from 1991 onward, with his rookie holding a retail value around $60 in top shape. Star veterans like Griffey, Bonds, and Ripken also command above average prices relative to other cards from the set.

The set’s record breaker and checklist inserts provide added collector interest. A Cal Ripken Jr. “Record Breaker” card celebrating his consecutive games played streak readily sells for $20-30. The base checklist meanwhile acts as a retro snapshot of the league, with examples routinely trading hands for $5-10 each. The nostalgia and historical significance of being The Sporting News’ farewell to cards keeps demand robust for the complete 1991 TSN set.

For those pursuing a full complete set, costs will measure up comparably to other ’91s despite the brand’s demise. In well-centered, near mint conditioned examples, a fully mastered TSN base issue can be acquired for under $100. This pricing reflects the circulation numbers while also acknowledging the set’s influence and feature players. The inserts potentially push the total cost higher, but individual cards also trade hands affordably. Serious collectors regard completion of The Sporting News’ baseball swan song as an obtainable goal with lasting commemorative value.

The 1991 TSN baseball card set maintains relevance and financial worth due to the quality players featured amid the hobby’s changing tides. Its final year release imbued the cardboard with a sense of historical bookending that future sets lacked. While lesser products from the junk wax era faded, the classic TSN brand name and statistical focus kept this set memorable. Even just a decade after issue, collectors looked upon the 1991 cards fondly as a symbol of an bygone publishing tradition in sports cards. Over thirty years later, nostalgia and quality rookies continue driving steady demand for The Sporting News baseball cards’ fond farewell.

BASEBALL CARDS AND PRICE

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The History and Pricing of Baseball Cards

Baseball cards have been an integral part of America’s pastime for over 130 years. Originally included as an advertisement or promotional item in packs of cigarettes in the late 1800s, baseball cards grew to become a beloved collecting hobby. Over the decades, certain factors have influenced the value and pricing of these cardboard collectibles. Let’s take a look at the history of baseball cards and what drives their price in the marketplace.

The earliest known baseball cards date back to the late 1880s but were not widely produced and distributed until the late 1880s and early 1890s when tobacco companies like Goodwin & Company and American Tobacco Company began inserting them in cigarette packs. These tobacco-era cards from the late 19th century are the most valuable and sought after by collectors today due to their extremely low surviving populations. Mint condition examples of cards featuring star players from this era like Honus Wagner, Cy Young, and Nap Lajoie can sell for millions of dollars at auction.

The golden age of baseball cards is considered to be the post-World War 2 era from the late 1940s through the 1960s. During this time, card production exploded as companies like Topps, Bowman, and Fleer began mass producing and inserting cards in candy, gum, and bubblegum packages. Millions of these cards were produced, circulated, and saved by children and adults alike fueling the baseball card collecting craze. Stars of this era like Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Hank Aaron are hugely popular with collectors today. Near mint and gem mint condition examples of their rookie cards from the 1950s can sell for six figures.

In the 1970s, the baseball card market experienced a lull as the bubblegum companies lost their exclusive contracts with MLB and the players association. New companies like Donruss entered the market but production and quality declined. The 1980s saw a resurgence led by the advent of higher gloss and photo quality cards from Topps and Donruss featuring stars like Mike Schmidt, Nolan Ryan, and Cal Ripken Jr. The 1990s experienced the modern baseball card boom with the rise of ultra-premium inserts, parallels, and autograph cards that drove collector interest and prices to new heights.

Several key factors influence the price and value of baseball cards in the current marketplace:

Player/Year – The most iconic and valuable cards feature all-time great players, especially their rookie cards, from the pre-war tobacco and postwar golden eras. Mantle ’52, Mays ’51, and Wagner ’09 are examples.

Condition – Mint condition examples command a huge premium. Even minor flaws or wear can significantly decrease value. Grading services objectively assess condition.

Autographs/Memorabilia – Signed cards and those with game-used patches or swatches have exponentially greater value than unsigned versions.

Printing/Rarity – Lower print run parallels, serially numbered inserts, and one-of-one custom cards have greater scarcity and demand.

Popularity/Nostalgia – Cards of recently retired stars or players from collector’s youth tend to be in higher demand.

Market Forces – Overall collector interest and economic conditions impact short-term pricing fluctuations in the marketplace.

While the vast majority of modern production baseball cards have relatively little monetary value, the rarest and highest quality examples from the earliest production years through the postwar golden age can sell for amounts that seem unimaginable given they were once inexpensive promotional items. A perfect 10 gem mint Mickey Mantle rookie is currently the most valuable trading card in existence and considered a blue-chip collectible investment. Whether you’re a casual collector of your favorite player or team or a serious investor, the enduring appeal and history behind these cardboard treasures ensures baseball cards will remain a driving force in the sports memorabilia industry for generations to come.

PRINTING BASEBALL TRADING CARDS

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Printing Baseball Trading Cards: A Complete Guide

Baseball card collecting and trading has been a beloved American pastime for generations. While many people focus on collecting pre-printed cards from manufacturers like Topps, Fleer, and Bowman, printing your own customized baseball trading cards can be a fun creative project. Whether you want to design cards for your favorite minor league or independent league team that doesn’t get national coverage, commemorate a special season or tournament, or just print unique cards for your personal collection, taking the time to print baseball trading cards yourself allows for endless customization.

Before diving into the printing process, the first step is designing your baseball trading card templates. Most people create their templates using desktop publishing or graphic design software like Microsoft Publisher, Adobe Photoshop, or Canva. Templates usually mimic the standard size, layout, and design elements of professional cards. Consider including spaces for a photo, player name and statistics, team logo, fun facts or quotes, card details like series and number on the front, with additional stats or notes on the back. Be sure to leave enough blank space for the printed information so your templates are versatile.

Once your templates are complete, it’s time to start populating them with content and images. Research players’ statistics, accomplishments, and fun facts online or from programs. Collect headshots and action photos of players if possible in a high resolution format like JPEG or PNG that retains image quality when resized for printing. You can take your own photos or find them with an image search. Don’t forget logos and graphics – most are available for free use online. Always double check copyright permissions if using others’ content or images commercially.

Now it’s time to print your baseball trading card templates. The best printers for high quality cards are inkjet or photo printers that can print on cardstock. Cardstock is thicker paper specifically made for cards, calendars and the like that can better withstand uses like bending, storing in sleeves or binders long-term. Look for cardstock in the 80-110lb weight range. Load it into your printer tray short edge first for better feeding.

For inkjet printers, choose the highest quality print settings and make test prints on regular paper first to adjust sizing and layout before printing on cardstock. Good adhesion of ink requires cardstock tailored for your specific printer model. Check manufacturer recommendations. Dedicated photo papers often give better prints than generic cards. For best results, choose either a pigment-based ink or a dye-based ink formulated for cardstock like those made by Canon and Epson. Avoid printers with dye-based inks only which can bleed over time.

Now it’s time to start printing your templates onto the loaded cardstock sheets. Make sure paper is feeding straight and test corners before printing a full sheet. Check print alignment and adjust as needed before committing to a full print job. Aim for at least 300 dpi resolution for crisp details. Depending on printer size, you may get 1-8 cards per sheet of cardstock. Allow inks to fully dry before handling newly printed cards to avoid smudging.

After printing, it’s time for customization and protection. Consider adding extras like team logos, serial numbers on the fronts or backs using glossy label sheets, or protectors/sleeves to help preserve the printed surface and edges. For protection, look for penny sleeves, magnetic or screw-down holders, toploaders, or plastic sheets. Consider attaching to binder pages, baseball case pages or customized boxes for organized storage and display of your personalized baseball trading card collection.

With the right paper, templates, photography assets and printer setup, creating customized baseball trading cards at home is highly rewarding. Taking the time to design unique cards allows collectors to truly put their personal stamp on this beloved hobby. Displaying a binder full of creatively crafted cards highlighting memories made on the diamond makes for a treasured memento of America’s favorite pastime.

VALUE OF 2022 TOPPS CHROME BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2022 Topps Chrome Baseball card set was released in late August/early September and has proven to be another highly sought after release from Topps. As the flagship Chrome set each year, it offers refractor and blue parallel versions of the base Topps cards in a shiny Chrome finish. While still early in the product cycle, here is an overview of some of the top rookie cards and parallels from the 2022 Topps Chrome set that are gaining value in the trading card marketplace.

One of the biggest names and cards from the 2022 Topps Chrome set is Grayson Rodriguez. The Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher prospect had a breakout season, reaching Triple-A at age 22, and is considered one of the top pitching prospects in baseball. His base Topps Chrome card is steadily climbing in price, with PSA 10 gem mint examples now selling in the $100-150 range on eBay. This is up significantly from initial release price guidelines in the $20-30 range. Rodriguez also has several valuable parallel options, with his /499 green refractor among the most coveted. Graded PSA 10 green refractors have sold for $400-650 based on recent eBay closed auction data.

Another elite pitching prospect finding early value is San Diego Padres left-hander MacKenzie Gore. Once considered the top pitching prospect in baseball, injuries slowed his rise but he finished strong heading into 2023. His base Topps Chrome card demand remains high, with PSA 10s around $75-125. Gore’s prized parallel is the /299 peach refractors, with a single PSA 10 recently selling for an impressive $900. Orlando Arcia is a breakout brewing star for the Atlanta Braves who hit .273 in 2022 after being acquired from Milwaukee. His Topps Chrome rookie card holds steady around $50-75 graded gem mint.

Beyond rookies, some veterans are gaining added interest in Topps Chrome too. Reigning NL MVP and Dodgers superstar Mookie Betts remains one of the most popular modern players. His /50 blue refractor parallel from 2022 Topps Chrome sold for $850 in a PSA 10 slab. Mike Trout remains the golden boy and highest valued card in the hobby. Even base Topps Chrome Trout rookies from 2009-2011 are selling for $150-300 each in PSA 10 condition on the secondary market.

Topps Chrome remains one of the premier brands for parallel short prints and rare refractors as well. Some examples already becoming highly valuable include Mariners rookie sensation Julio Rodriguez’ /99 aqua refractor at $650 PSA 10, and Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman’s /99 orange refractor near $400 PSA 10. Reds 2B Jonathan India and Guardians OF Steven Kwan also have desirable /99 aqua and orange refractors respectively around the $150-300 PSA 10 range based on recent sales.

Looking ahead to possible long term risers from 2022 Topps Chrome, a few names to watch include rookie sluggers Oneil Cruz (Pirates), Bobby Witt Jr. (Royals) and Spencer Strider (Braves). While their base rookies have dipped below initial release values closer to $20 PSA 10, their short printed parallels like /499 and /150 could appreciate nicely with continued big league success. Likewise, breakouts like Reds 3B Brandon Drury, Rockies OF Kris Bryant and Tigers reliever Gregory Soto have /50 and /25 parallels that may gain buyers over the years.

While still early, the 2022 Topps Chrome set is following the typical hobby trends of rookie cards and stars appreciating the most. With its iconic shiny Chrome design and always sparse parallels, the flagship release remains a premiere modern sports card product. Savvy investors are targeting top prospects like Rodriguez and Gore, as well as short prints of big names like Betts and Trout. With strong on-field performances, certain 2022 rookies like Cruz, Witt and Strider also offer longshot appreciation potential down the road. As one of the final flagship releases before the Major League Baseball lockout, the 2022 Topps Chrome set will remain a collectors favorite for years to come.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BASEBALL CARDS

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Happy Birthday Baseball Cards: A Unique Way to Celebrate the Sport’s Biggest Fans

Baseball and birthdays seem to go hand in hand every summer. There’s nothing quite like celebrating another trip around the sun with family and friends while enjoying America’s favorite pastime. In recent years, a fun new tradition has emerged for baseball super fans – happy birthday baseball cards. These specially designed cards provide a unique way to recognize a fan’s special day with their favorite players and teams front and center.

The concept is simple yet incredibly thoughtful. A loved one selects a baseball player and/or team that the birthday boy or girl adores. They then work with one of the many artists and manufacturers that have entered this booming market. Details like the recipient’s name, age, and birthdate are added to a professionally designed baseball card template. Sometimes stats, a fun quote or inside joke might be incorporated too. Within a week or two, a one-of-a-kind baseball card arrives ready to delight the fan on their birthday.

Some may question isn’t this just a printed picture? But baseball card collector know there is magic in that glossy stock. The nostalgia factor alone makes them special gifts. And with care and preservation, the cards can become priceless keepsakes commemorating memorable occasions. Much thought and care clearly goes into their creation too, which shows the giver really understands the recipient’s passions. It’s a birthday wish brought to life in a unique memento any fan would cherish.

The concept first emerged organically around 2010 as creative baseball and card lovers came up with novel ways to share their hobby. Etsy proved a perfect marketplace for small sellers to showcase their designs. As demand boomed, full-scale companies entered the field. Today major players like Birthday Baseball Cards and My Own Baseball Card craft thousands of bespoke Creations annually. Templates featuring every MLB player and team allow for endless customization potential.

In addition to birthdays, the cards now mark all sorts of life events. Anniversaries, retirements, new babies – all provide an excuse to spread baseball joy. Some couples even exchange lovingly crafted cards as relationship milestones. The gift captures nostalgia while putting a modern personalized twist on classic cardboard collectibles. It’s a special bridge unifying childhood memories and present-day fandom.

Of course, not just any fan will do. The biggest devotees truly appreciate such a unique baseball token. Season ticket holders, fantasy players, and those with extensive memorabilia collections are ideal recipients. But even casual fans smile seeing their name paired with legendary icons like Babe Ruth or Sandy Koufax. Subtle card details reveal how well the giver pays attention to their beloved cherry picker’s quirks. That thoughtfulness is why the presents resonate so strongly.

Interest and variety within the marketplace constantly expands too. New artists emerge showcasing one-of-a-kind retro or artistic styles. Specific teams and eras get spotlighted through curated collections. Fan-funded independent creators produce small limited runs as passionate hobby projects. Partnerships between card producers and charities raise funds through specialty designs as well. There’s truly a customized baseball birthday card for any loyalist out there.

So whether you’re three or 93, don’t be surprised to find a happy birthday baseball card amid gifts and well-wishes on your special day. The cards celebrate fans young and old, bridging nostalgia with novelty in a treasured baseball token. Their appeal keeps growing as more people discover this brilliant fusion of America’s favorite pastime with birthday merriment. With so many options, thoughtfully crafted baseball birthday cards are sure to remain a hit for years to come.

BASEBALL COLLECTORS CARDS

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Baseball cards have been an integral part of America’s pastime for over a century. Originally included as an advertisement or promotional item in cigarette and candy packages starting in the late 1800s, baseball cards soon evolved into a beloved collectible item for fans of all ages. Even today in the digital age, the tradition of collecting and trading baseball cards remains hugely popular as both a nostalgic hobby and lucrative business.

Some of the earliest baseball cards date back to the late 19th century during baseball’s early professional period. In 1886, the American Tobacco Company began inserting illustrated cards featuring major league players into packages of cigarettes as a promotional gimmick. These tobacco era cards from the late 1800s through the early 1900s are among the most valuable and coveted items for serious collectors. Examples in near mint condition have sold at auction for over $2 million.

The golden age of baseball cards is widely considered to be from the late 1930s through the 1950s when the chewing gum company Topps gained the exclusive rights to produce cards and inserted them in gum packs. These post-war Topps cards defined the modern baseball card format that is still used today of a player photo on the front with career and team stats on the back. The iconic 1952 Topps set is especially prized by collectors for featuring legends like Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays in their rookie seasons.

In the late 1950s, Topps began facing competition from new entrants like Fleer and Bowman which produced their own sets in the early 1960s. This sparked what is known as the “card war era” as companies battled for licensing rights and inserted extra cards, premiums, and oddball promotions to entice collectors. The competition drove innovation but also led to an overproduction of cards that flooded the market. By the mid-1960s, the war caused a collapse that nearly ended the baseball card industry.

Topps regained exclusive control in the late 1960s and produced some of the most visually appealing and statistically rich sets of the post-war period through the 1970s. Young collectors in the 1970s helped fuel a resurgence when it became a mainstream hobby. The rise of specialized magazines also helped establish the infrastructure for grading services, conventions, and online communities that turned card collecting into a serious endeavor for many.

In the late 1980s, the entry of upper deck and score broke Topps’ long monopoly. These companies produced cards on higher quality card stock with sharp color photography that collectors preferred. The increased competition once again led to an overproduction through the early 1990s that caused a price crash and lost interest. New collectors emerging with the steroid era of the late 1990s helped revitalize the market.

Today, the baseball card industry remains a multimillion-dollar business dominated by the “Big 3” of Topps, Upper Deck, and Panini. While physical card sales have declined some with the digital age, there remains a robust secondary market for vintage cards among avid collectors. Modern rookie cards of stars like Mike Trout have sold for over $400,000. Grading services like PSA and BGS that authenticate and encapsulate pristine vintage cards in plastic slabs have become essential to the high-end market.

Major events like the release of a new Topps flagship set in the spring or the National Sports Collectors Convention each summer still draw huge crowds. Card shops, eBay auctions, and online communities also fuel the continued interest among both casual and serious collectors. As a connection to baseball’s storied past, cards remain one of the most authentic American traditions in sports. Whether collecting for nostalgia, investment, or the thrill of the chase of finding a valuable gem, baseball cards continue captivating new generations of fans in this golden age of the hobby.