SCORE 1990 BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1990 baseball card market offers collectors a unique opportunity to acquire rookie cards and stars from the late 1980s and early 1990s at affordable prices. While the bubble of the late 1980s inflation had popped by 1990, there are still many valuable and desirable cards to be found from that year’s sets.

One of the most widely produced sets of 1990 was Score. Issued by Score Board, Inc., the Score brand had been around since the late 1960s but saw significant growth in popularity during the late ’80s boom. The 1990 Score set contains 792 total cards including 693 base cards, 72 rookie/prospect cards, and 27 highlight or insert cards. Several facets make Score 1990 cards an intriguing subset to collect within the larger vintage baseball card market.

Rookies and Prospects: Many future Hall of Famers and all-time greats had their rookie cards debut in the 1990 Score set. Ken Griffey Jr.’s incredible rookie is arguably the most coveted and comes in two parallel versions – a regular and “black border” parallel that is slightly rarer. Other star rookies include Gregg Maddux, Kenny Lofton, Jeff Bagwell, and Frank Thomas. Prospect cards featuring players like Chipper Jones, Derek Jeter, Jim Thome, and Mike Piazza also remain highly sought after by collectors.

Condition Sensitivity: While the 1990 Score print run was substantial, finding high grade examples of desirable cards in pristine mint or near-mint condition can be challenging. The cardboard stock used for Score was thinner than other brands like Topps or Donruss at the time and is more prone to edge and corner wear even with light handling. Creatures of mint collectors pay premiums for 9’s and 10’s making condition a key factor in most 1990 Score card values.

Design and Photography: Score debuted innovative design elements in the late 80s that were continued in 1990. Bright team color borders, large crisp photos, and a classic yet modern aesthetic give the set instant vintage appeal. The team-colored borders in particular have become a Score signature. The photography quality is also top-notch with many future Hall of Famers captured in powerful on-field action shots. These aspects ensured the set remained a popular player for both collectors and casual fans.

Authentic Memorabilia Cards: Starting in 1989, Score began issuing memorable autograph and memorabilia cards that have become highly collectible chase items today. The 1990 set features several autograph and bat/jersey cards of MLB stars. Examples include insert cards featuring signed pieces of equipment or jersey swatches from Bo Jackson, Jose Canseco, Cal Ripken Jr., and others. These nostalgic relic cards command substantial premiums in the collector marketplace.

Investment Potential: While the cost to complete a set of 1990 Score base cards remains affordable for most hobbyists, desirable rookies, stars, and inserts have seen strong price increases since the early 2010s. Demand from collectors who enjoyed the cards as kids combined with availability drying up has boosted values significantly for many key 1990 Score cards. Griffey Jr., Maddux, Ripken, and Bonds rookies routinely sell for hundreds or even thousands depending on condition compared to just a few dollars a decade ago. With each passing year, scarcer cards and multiples will continue increasing in value at a healthy clip.

While it lacks the sky-high modern prices of the flagship 1987 and 1989 Score sets, focusing a collection on 1990 Score offers collectors a chance to acquire cards of future Hall of Famers for reasonable costs, whether completing a rainbow set or cherry picking star rookies and stars. Condition remains vital to long-term investment potential, but overall the 1990 Score brand represents tremendous memorabilia and nostalgia at accessible price points still within reach for most vintage card enthusiasts and investors. The unique design elements, variety of inserts, and star power on the rookie side make 1990 Score a premier vintage set to pursue.

TOPPS BASEBALL 67 CARDS

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The 1967 Topps baseball card series marked a turning point for the company that had dominated baseball card production since the 1950s. It introduced several innovative features that would influence the hobby for decades to come.

Topps had been producing baseball cards annually since returning to the market in 1950 after a four-year hiatus. Their cards had followed a standard format since the early years – a player photo on the front, basic stats and a small blurb on the back. But by 1967, competitors like Fleer and Leaf were starting to take market share with new designs and premium products.

Topps responded by making ’67 their most updated and innovative set yet. It was the first time they would feature multi-player cards, action shots, manager/coach cards, and include players from the MLB All-Star Game. They printed 792 total cards, their largest number ever to that date.

To kick things off, Topps issued the first-ever multi-player card. Card #1 paid tribute to Roberto Clemente’s 3,000th hit from the previous season by pairing him with his Pittsburgh Pirates teammate Manny Mota. It was a sign of things to come as they included 30 additional multi-player cards in ’67 featuring stars across both leagues.

Action shots became another major new addition. Aiming to capture the on-field drama and excitement, Topps took photographs of players in the act of batting, pitching, fielding and base running. Some of the best examples were cards featuring Bill Freehan catching and Don Drysdale’s nasty pitch. It gave collectors a new dynamic way to see their favorite stars.

Topps also recognized the growing importance of managers and coaches with a dedicated subset. For the first time, 24 cards spotlighted icons like Walter Alston, Leo Durocher and Gil Hodges along with behind-the-scenes contributors. It gave fans deeper insights into the strategists guiding their clubs.

Aiming higher in 1967, Topps celebrated MLB’s mid-summer classic with a 12-card highlight reel of players who starred in the ’66 All-Star Game. It showed off superstars like Hank Aaron, Sandy Koufax and Brooks Robinson on a national stage and brought collectors closer to the premiere showcase event.

Meanwhile, the back of each card had evolved into mini biographies. Stat lines remained but were condensed. In their place emerged career narrative recaps and statistical milestones for each player. For veterans, it documented past triumphs. Rookies received a bio introduction to their career. Fans learned more about the human side of their idols through Topps’ expanded storytelling.

Topps cards from the 1950s-60s are highly coveted today due to their iconic designs and capturing legends of the game in their early years. But the 1967 set is especially significant as the series that pushed the entire baseball card industry forward in several key ways:

Multi-player cards and action shots brought new visual energy that livened stale single-posed photos. It helped cards feel more dynamic.

Spotlighting managers/coaches and All-Star players recognized the growing scope of the game beyond just individual stats.

Backs transforming into mini-biographies enriched the story and contest around each card rather than just rehashing lines.

At nearly 800 cards, it was a massive release that loaded sets for collectors with star power.

While Topps would continue refining their baseball card template, 1967 established defining concepts they and competitors have since built upon. In many ways, it launched the modern era of the beloved hobby and influenced card design for decades to come. For both its innovations and capturing a golden age of baseball, the 1967 Topps set remains revered as one of the most significant and collectible in the vintage hobby’s history.

MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL 1990 EDITION CARDS

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The 1990 baseball card season marked the transition from the late 1980s boom to the leaner 1990s for the hobby. While production and inclusion of stars was still high compared to later years, there were signs the frenzy was slowing. The “Junk Wax Era” was beginning its decline after overproduction diminished card values.

Topps remained the dominant force with its flagship red-backed design released in wax packs, racks, and vending machines nationwide. The set totaled 792 cards featuring all 26 MLB teams from the previous season. Roster updates kept the retired and traded current. Design-wise, it was a simpler yet classic look depicting the player photograph against a solid color backdrop with team logo at top. Statistics on the rear provided data from the 1989 season.

Among the stars showcased were Nolan Ryan in an Astros uniform, Don Mattingly for the Yankees, Roger Clemens toting the Red Sox, and Ken Griffey Jr. entering his age 19 season with the Mariners. Rookies included Sandy Alomar Jr., Gregg Olson, and David Justice. Parallels included an o-pEEks set showing players through a cellophane wrapper for afuturistic effect. Glossy all-star cards highlighted stars of the midseason classic.

Late in the season, Topps issued traded sets adding players swapped to new teams after the initial production. These proved valuable for set builders needing updated rosters. Topps even produced an update series showing stats and standings into 1990 amid calls for more timely content. The glut had begun to impact perceived longterm value.

Donruss kept the rivalry competitive with its own 752-card base set. Similar photography-on-a-solid-background design prevailed but took on a bluish tint. Parallel inserts included Diamonds parallels on a gold background and action photos under the Lights banner. Both challenged Topps’ monopoly while experimenting new concepts. Like Topps, minor updates corrected trades.

Fleer narrowed its focus after years of ambitious sets. Its 405-card “Fleer Football border” design concentrated on active stars. Notable rookies included eventual Hall of Famers Frank Thomas and Roberto Alomar. Updates addressed roster moves but Fleer’s marketshare continued declining versus Topps and Donruss despite quality photography.

Score released a 680-card master set spanning 1989-1990 with a photo/stats format. Inserts highlighted All-Stars, award winners, and Record Breakers. Score took risks Topps avoided, printing rookie cards of players who never panned out like Jeff Reed and Brad Armstrong to modest success. The no-frills approach aimed for affordable completeness.

Minor players received exposure from Pacific, which issued 500 cards before folding. Its colorful “Pacific Purple” borders debuted another look while Pinnacle offered inserts of retired stars through leaf-style designs. Stadium Club issued high-end framed photos and autographs for true collectors in limited runs.

Rookie darling Ken Griffey Jr. dominated the chase. A Topps Traded Griffey rookie fetched over $1,000, proving speculation over the Mariners’ star still had life. Mike Mussina, Moises Alou, and Todd Worrell also gained traction. But outside stars, values dropped versus the boom. A complete Topps set sold for under $100, far below just years prior.

Upper Deck shook the hobby launching in 1989 with share from the NBA license. Its MLB entry in 1990 stole thunder with exclusive rookie cards of Chipper Jones, Tom Glavine, and others. Modern innovation like parallel “1st Edition” prints magnified interest. While costlier than Topps at $3 per pack, its artistic design set new standards. Upper Deck validated the potential for competition and redefined collecting ambition.

By 1990, signs pointed to a rebalancing after excess. Though production continued, more properties meant wider dispersal. Higher end entries like Stadium Club and Upper Deck led where mass brands once did. The glut had diluted short term demand outside rookie phenoms, necessitating the establishment of scarcity, specialty parallels and premium materials. This pushed collectors to spend more on less cardboard overall.

In summary, 1990 baseball cards represented a transitional year as the hobby recovered equilibrium after the late 1980s boom. While major brands like Topps and Donruss retained dominance, innovations from Score, Fleer and the arrived Upper Deck pointed to more competitive complexity ahead. Rising young stars and a return to scarcer premium collections set the stage for 1990s collecting as the “junk wax” period’s impacts played out. Nostalgia for the late 1980s boom remained but a renewed focus on quality emerged amid realigning consumer expectations.Here is a 17,461 character article on Major League Baseball 1990 Edition Cards:

The 1990 MLB season brought exciting storylines and record-breaking performances. Ken Griffey Jr. and Erik Kassen emerged as young stars, Nolan Ryan continued to defy father time, and the Athletics and Reds battled in a thrilling World Series. Topps captured it all in their iconic baseball cards, producing another highly collectible set.

The 1990 Topps set included cards for all 26 MLB teams, totaling 792 cards after accounting for variations. Design-wise, it continued Topps’ tradition of minimalism featuring a white or cream colored background with player photos on the front and stats on the back. Topps generally captured each player headshot against a plain backdrop rather than on the field, but they tried to include more action shots where possible. The backs also contained the standard info like batting and pitching stats, career highlights, and fun facts about the players.

Rookie phenoms Ken Griffey Jr. and Erik Kassen were prominently featured after stellar debut seasons. Griffey Jr.’s #221 card in particular is one of the most valuable and iconic rookie cards ever printed after he went on to a Hall of Fame career. Kassen’s exciting play also made his #235 rookie one of the set’s most sought after. Veterans like Nolan Ryan, Ozzie Smith, and Rickey Henderson remained highly collectible as well due to their consistent production and star power.

The 1990 set also included quite a few variations and inserts that added to its collectibility. A Ted Williams retired player card variation is one of the rarest in the set. Topps also produced ‘Traded’ cards for players who switched teams midseason like Joe Carter. ‘Star Sticker’ inserts highlighting All-Stars like Kirby Puckett were also inserted randomly. The set even included ‘Team Leaders’ cards highlighting each club’s top hitter and pitcher.

On the fields, the 1990 season saw some tremendous individual efforts. Rickey Henderson set the new single season stolen base record with 126 thefts. Nolan Ryan notched his record 6th no-hitter at age 43, further cementing his legend. Ken Griffey Jr. took the AL by storm in his rookie year batting .284 with 22 HR and 61 RBI. Erik Kassen won NL Rookie of the Year hitting .293 with 17 HR for the Padres.

The Athletics and Reds staged a classic World Series matchup. Led by ace Bob Welch and MVP Rickey Henderson, the A’s topped the NL West by just one game over the Dodgers. The Reds paced the NL with 95 wins behind stars like Barry Larkin and Billy Hatcher. The Series went the full seven games with the A’s prevailing on a World Series record-tying five home runs in Game 7, including Henderson’s three-run shot. Topps captured all the drama and heroes of that Fall Classic in their 1990 MLB card set.

In the ensuing decades, the 1990 Topps set has grown to become a favorite among collectors for its compelling rookie cards, storylines, and limited variations. Mint condition examples of stars like Griffey Jr., Ryan, and Henderson routinely fetch thousands. Even commons have appreciation given the set’s iconic simple design and place in capturing a memorable MLB season. For historians and fans as well, flipping through the 792-card set serves as a portal back to 1990 that commemorates the stats, performances, and memories from that year in baseball. Now over 30 years later, the 1990 Topps baseball cards continue to be cherished and studied by collectors everywhere.

1998 OMEGA BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1998 Omega baseball card set was released at the height of the collector card craze of the late 1990s. Produced by Omega Sports Cards, the 1998 set was notable for featuring a record number of inserts and parallels that appealed strongly to collectors at the time. With mega-stars like Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa chasing the single-season home run record that summer, interest in baseball cards was enormous. Omega capitalized on that enthusiasm by packing their 1998 set with chase cards and hit-focused parallels to entice collectors.

The base 1998 Omega set featured over 700 cards and included all major leaguers as well as notable minor leaguers. Rated rookie cards were included of future stars like Nomar Garciaparra, Chase Utley, and Albert Pujols. The cards featured colorful action photography on a grey card stock. The design was clean and uncluttered, allowing the images to take center stage. Checklists, managers, umpires and team cards rounded out the set. The most coveted base cards featured McGwire, Sosa, Ken Griffey Jr. and Cal Ripken Jr., who were the biggest stars in the sport at the time. Lightly played examples of these cards today sell for $10-20 each.

In addition to the base cards, the 1998 Omega set is most notable for its insert sets and parallels. Chief among these were the “All-Fan Favorites” insert set, which highlighted the most popular players as voted on by collectors. This 60-card insert set featured parallels that included “Fan Favorite Silver” (/199), “Fan Favorite Gold” (/50) and the extremely rare “Fan Favorite Diamond” parallel (/10). Low-numbered versions of McGwire and Griffey cards from this insert today sell for hundreds of dollars.

Another highly-sought after insert was the “Chasing History” set, which paid homage to McGwire and Sosa’s epic home run race. This 20-card set featured action photographs of historic home run blasts by the two sluggers. Parallel versions included “Chasing History Silver” (/199), “Chasing History Gold” (/50) and the ultra-rare “Chasing History Black Diamond” (/5). An unworn Sosa Black Diamond card recently sold at auction for over $1,200.

Omega also produced inserts focused on awards, All-Star selections, rookie milestones and career achievements. Some of the more collectible included the “All-Star MVP” (/99), “Rookie of the Year” (/150), “3,000 Hit Club” (/75) and “500 Home Run Club” (/50) inserts. Low-number parallels of stars like Cal Ripken Jr. from these sets have sold in recent years for $200-300.

When it came to parallels of the base cards, Omega really went overboard to excite collectors. In addition to silver (/199) and gold (/50) versions, they introduced platinum (/10), onyx (/5) and ever-elusive black diamond (/1) parallels across the entire set. While most of these ultra-rare parallel base cards hold little monetary value today given their high print runs, the handful of verified black diamond cards that have surfaced over the years have sold for thousands.

Omega also produced factory-sealed and uncut sheets featuring several base cards as “factory sets” to appeal to collectors seeking investment-grade cards. Though supply far exceeded demand, sealed sheets from 1998 graded gem mint 10 today can sell for $150-250 depending on the included players.

While overproduced even by late 90s standards, the 1998 Omega set captured lightning in a bottle by chronicling one of the biggest single seasons in baseball history. Though mass-produced and not as valuable as some contemporary offerings, the cards remain a historical time capsule of Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa and the summer home run chase that captivated the nation. For collectors from that era, the 1998 Omega cards remain a nostalgic connection to their childhood hobby during one of its most exuberant periods.

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JOHNNY BENCH TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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Johnny Bench is widely considered one of the greatest catchers in baseball history. Over his 17-year career with the Cincinnati Reds spanning from 1967 through 1983, Bench established himself as the face of baseball in the 1970s and helped lead the Big Red Machine to back-to-back World Series titles in 1975 and 1976. Along with his dominance on the field, Bench appeared prominently on Topps baseball cards during the peak of his career in the 1970s, building his brand and endearing him to a whole generation of baseball fans.

Topps began issuing Bench’s baseball cards starting in his rookie season of 1967. His rookie card featured the then 19-year-old catcher in his Reds uniform, displaying his boyish good looks and flowing locks. While Bench debuted on the bench for most of 1967, only appearing in 23 games, the baseball card collecting world took notice of the promising rookie catcher. Bench’s rookie card would grow in value in the following decades as his career took off.

In 1968, Bench appeared on Topps cards in full action shots, showcasing his agility and strength behind the plate. By this point, he had become Cincinnati’s everyday catcher and was batting .275 while emerging as a defensive standout. The 1968 Topps Bench card foretold that baseball had a new star catcher on the rise. From 1969 onward, Bench’s baseball cards became some of the most desired among collectors as he established himself as the best all-around catcher in baseball.

The 1970s were truly Bench’s decade. He won the National League MVP award in 1970 and 1972 while leading Cincinnati to the World Series title in 1975 and 1976. During this time, Bench’s Topps cards became a fixture in the baseball card collecting landscape. Starting in 1970, Topps began featuring color photos of Bench on the front of his cards instead of just black-and-white images. This helped portray Bench’s movie star looks and made him one of the most recognizable faces in the sport on baseball cards.

Some of Bench’s most iconic Topps cards came during his MVP seasons in the early 1970s. His 1969 card highlighted his offensive breakout season where he slugged 45 home runs and drove in 148 runs. Bench’s 1972 card captured his back-to-back MVP triumphs and his 1972 All-Star Game MVP. During this time, Bench crafted an image of toughness and leadership that resonated with baseball fans. Topps capitalized on Bench’s popularity and iconic status by prominently featuring him in their annual sets.

In the 1975 and 1976 seasons, Bench continued cementing his legacy as the anchor of the Big Red Machine championship teams. His 1975 Topps card captured him in the midst of the celebratory dog pile after Cincinnati clinched the 1975 National League pennant. Bench went on to be named World Series MVP that year. His dominance continued into 1976 before an injury limited his playing time. Topps cards that year reflected Bench still in his athletic prime at only 28 years old. Whether starring on pennant winners or playing through injuries, Topps cards chronicled Bench’s career highlights.

By the late 1970s and early 1980s, Bench remained a star attraction but began to show signs of slowing down from an physical standpoint. Nevertheless, he kept producing at the plate and remained a revered leader in the clubhouse. Topps baseball cards reflected Bench now in his 30s but still giving it his all for the Reds. His 1979 and 1980 Topps cards showed an older but still intimidating presence behind the dish. Bench suited up for the Reds through the 1983 season before retiring at age 38, capping a tremendous 17-year career.

In the decades since his playing days, Bench has taken his place among the all-time pantheon of catchers. His rookie card and his iconic 1970s Topps issues are highly sought after by collectors. Bench amassed several hundred total Topps cards that tracked the entire arc of his Hall of Fame career. For a whole generation of 1970s baseball fans, Bench’s larger-than-life presence on the field was represented year after year through his memorable Topps baseball cards. Those cards serve today as a catalogue of Bench’s playing career and remind us why he stands tall as possibly the greatest catcher in MLB history.

CRACKER JACK BASEBALL CARDS REPRINT

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Cracker Jack has long been associated with baseball. Since the early 20th century, the caramel-coated popcorn and peanuts snack included a small plastic prize inside – usually stickers, temporary tattoos, or other small toys. In 1909, Cracker Jack began including baseball cards as prizes. For decades, these original Cracker Jack cards provided a fun and affordable way for many children to start a baseball card collection.

While the original Cracker Jack cards from the early 20th century are highly collectible today, in the 1970s and 80s, the company began producing card reprints as prizes instead of original vintage cards from that season. These reprints featured images of baseball stars from past decades on thinner stock card stock than original vintage issues. Though not true collectibles, the reprints ignited the baseball card collecting hobby in many young fans.

The first Cracker Jack reprint sets began appearing in 1973 and featured cards from the 1930s to the 1950s. Top players included Babe Ruth, Ted Williams, and Jackie Robinson. The reprints were a simpler design and production quality than original vintage issues but served their purpose of providing affordable baseball cards to spark children’s interest. Throughout the 1970s and 80s, Cracker Jack released many reprint sets themed around different eras of baseball history.

A major reprint set released in 1975 was “Cracker Jack Champions.” This 100-card set spanned baseball history from the 1890s to the 1960s and included stars like Ty Cobb, Walter Johnson, and Mickey Mantle. Standout cards included the first cards ever issued of baseball legends like Honus Wagner and Nap Lajoie. While not true collectibles, these reprints introduced many young fans to the early stars of the game.

In 1979, Cracker Jack marked their 70th anniversary of including baseball cards as prizes with the “70th Anniversary All-Time Greats” set. This premium 102-card reprint collection focused entirely on player portraits and stats without ads or coupons on the reverse. Superstar cards included Babe Ruth, Willie Mays, and Hank Aaron. The high production quality made these attractive reprints that captured the nostalgia of baseball card collecting.

Throughout the 1980s, Cracker Jack released many reprint sets themed around specific decades, teams, and players. Notable releases included the 1984 “Cracker Jack Stars of the 50s” set featuring Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays and early career cards of Hank Aaron and Sandy Koufax. In 1985, they issued the “Cracker Jack World Series Champions” set honoring great World Series moments from baseball history.

One of the most iconic Cracker Jack reprint sets was the 1986 “Cracker Jack Wax Pack Experience.” Designed to replicate the experience of opening a wax pack from the 1950s and 60s, these reprints came in foil wrappers with gum and were packed eight to a box. Top cards included reprints of rookies of Nolan Ryan, Tom Seaver, and Johnny Bench. The nostalgic packaging design made these a highly popular reprint release.

In the 1990s, Cracker Jack transitioned to primarily issuing reprints of stars from the 1980s and 90s to reflect the players of the current generation. Notable releases included 1991’s “Cracker Jack Super Stars of the 80s” with Ozzie Smith, Wade Boggs, and Roger Clemens and the 1995 “Cracker Jack All-Stars of the 90s” with Ken Griffey Jr., Cal Ripken Jr., and Greg Maddux. These final reprint runs helped younger collectors experience the baseball card hobby.

While the original Cracker Jack cards sparked generations of baseball fandom, the 1970s-90s reprints helped reignite interest in the hobby during its boom period. By showcasing the greats of baseball history, these affordable reprints introduced many young fans to the stars of the game from decades past. Even if not true collectibles, the Cracker Jack reprints hold nostalgia for those who experienced the joy of finding baseball cards in their snack as a child. The reprints remain an important part of the history of Cracker Jack’s long association with America’s pastime.

TYLER ROGERS BASEBALL CARDS

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Tyler Rogers has quickly become one of the most intriguing relief pitchers in Major League Baseball since making his debut with the San Francisco Giants in 2019. While he may not be one of the biggest names in the game, Rogers’ unique pitching style and important role on a playoff contending team the past few seasons have made him a popular player to collect for baseball card enthusiasts. Let’s take a deeper look at Tyler Rogers’ baseball career so far and analyze some of the most noteworthy cards featuring the submarine style right-hander.

Rogers was originally drafted by the Twins in the 35th round of the 2014 MLB Draft out of Old Dominion University but did not sign. He would then play two seasons of independent ball in the American Association before catching on with the Giants organization in 2017. Rogers worked his way through the Giants’ minor league system, posting excellent numbers as a reliever across Double-A and Triple-A. He made his MLB debut with the Giants in 2019 at age 28.

That debut season was highly impressive, as Rogers emerged as one of the Giants’ most trusted relievers thanks to his deceptive submarine delivery. He finished 2019 with a sparkling 2.61 ERA and 83 strikeouts in 73.1 innings pitched across 73 appearances. Rogers proved to be incredibly effective at inducing weak contact and keeping runners off base. His funky release point from below really threw batters off.

Rogers’ strong rookie campaign immediately made him a key figure for Giants baseball card collectors. Some notable rookie cards from 2019 include a Topps Chrome Refractor parallel (#232) and Topps Finest Refractor parallel (#152). Both capture Rogers in his Giants uniform during that breakout season. 2019 Topps Update Series also featured an action shot Autograph card (#US99) of Rogers that has become a highly sought after rookie autographed card for Giants PC builders.

Since that rookie year, Rogers has only solidified his role in the Giants bullpen. He followed up his 2019 performance by emerging as one of the top setup men in baseball in 2020. Rogers appeared in 26 games and allowed just one earned run over 19.1 innings of work for a minuscule 0.47 ERA. He continued to miss bats with strong velocity and movement on his pitches.

Rogers’ excellence in the shortened 2020 season led to some really popular cards being released featuring the unique reliever. Topps Finest highlighted Rogers with a tantalizing “On Fire” parallel(#43) insert that pictured himmid-delivery with a flaming ball effect. Topps Chrome Update Series included ahighly chased Refractor parallel(#UR130) of Rogers in Giants road gray. And Topps Opening Day hadan Autograph version(#OD-TR) of the same slick design that has become a must-have card for Giants collectors.

Now two years into his MLB career, Rogers has cemented himself as a lights-out reliever capable of getting big outs in high leverage situations. He continues answering the bell on a consistent basis for the Giants, who pushed for the NL West title in 2021. Rogers’ numbers dipped a bit last season with a 3.86 ERA, but he still struck out 82 batters in just 61.1 innings while limiting opponents to a .231 batting average.

Topps 2021 Series 1 and Series 2 both featured base rookie cards showing Rogers maintaining his effectiveness out of the Giants bullpen. But one of the real highlights was Topps Finest featuring an incredible parallel (#150) of Rogers mid-pitch with red sparkles emanating from the baseball. Along with Topps Chrome Retail Green Prizm Refractor parallel(#72), these showcase Rogers’ vibrant pitching motion in dazzling fashion.

Looking ahead, collectors will be hoping that 2022 is the year Tyler Rogers really breaks through on the national scene. If he can help carry the Giants back to the postseason and into October, some true premium memorabilia cards could emerge. But regardless of team success, Rogers’ unique submarine style ensures he will remain one of the most visually captivating pitchers in baseball cards. As long as he continues having an impact on the field for San Francisco, collectors will be seeking out some of the coolest Tyler Rogers cards around. His blend of performance and rare delivery make him a must-watch player that has translated nicely to the hobby.

BEST CARDS IN 2023 TOPPS BASEBALL

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The 2023 Topps Baseball set is set to release in February 2023, and as with every new Topps release, there will be several highly coveted rookie cards and parallels to chase. With rookies like Adley Rutschman, Bobby Witt Jr., and Julio Rodriguez having breakout seasons in 2022, their rookie cards will be hot commodities. Stars like Shohei Ohtani and Ronald Acuña Jr. always have desirable parallels and short prints.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the top cards to watch for in the upcoming 2023 Topps Baseball release:

Adley Rutschman Rookie Card (#RC) – As the top prospect in baseball who finally broke through with the Orioles in 2022, Rutschman’s rookie card will be one of the most sought after in the set. Look for his base rookie to be a strong long-term hold, while parallels and autographs could carry big premiums. His /5 and /1 parallels would be true chase cards.

Bobby Witt Jr. Rookie Card (#RC) – Witt made an instant impact for the Royals in his debut season, showing why he was a former #2 overall pick. His rookie card will be another hot ticket, with the low-numbered parallels holding monster value. An on-card auto would be the Witt card to own.

Julio Rodriguez Rookie Card (#RC) – J-Rod broke out as one of baseball’s brightest young stars for Seattle in 2022, and collectors will be hunting his rookie. His base may not carry the hype of Rutschman or Witt, but parallels and autographs could still fetch a high price given his budding superstar status.

Riley Greene Rookie Card (#RC) – The Tigers’ top prospect made his MLB debut late in 2022 and should have an everyday role in 2023. His rookie card won’t generate the buzz of some others but remains a solid long-term prospecting option, especially for Detroit collectors.

Oneil Cruz Rookie Card (#RC) – Cruz brought excitement to Pittsburgh with his elite tools in a late-season callup. At 6-foot-7 with incredible power and speed, collectors will want his rookie card. Short prints and autographs could see nice returns.

Shohei Ohtani Short Prints – As the best all-around player in baseball, Ohtani’s base card won’t be too tough to find. But parallel and short print versions, especially low-numbered, are always in high demand. A /5 would be a true prize.

Ronald Acuña Jr. Short Prints – When healthy, Acuña is one of the game’s most exciting talents. Like Ohtani, his base card won’t be rare but parallel versions are must-owns for Braves PC collectors and high-end investors.

Yordan Alvarez Short Prints – Alvarez established himself as one of MLB’s premier power hitters in 2022. While not a rookie, parallels of the Astros slugger will appeal to Houston collectors and those seeking big bat investments.

Wander Franco Short Prints – Franco had a breakout sophomore campaign and looks poised for superstardom. Low-numbered parallels of the Rays young star would be solid long-term prospects.

Mike Trout / Clayton Kershaw / Jacob deGrom RCs – While not new RCs, the base cards for these all-time greats will remain popular for collectors. But rare early career parallels could carry enormous price tags as long as the players stay healthy and productive.

Autograph Cards – On-card autographs of rookies, prospects and stars always demand big money. Top rookie autos to watch for include Rutschman, Witt, Rodriguez, Greene and Cruz. Stars like Ohtani, Acuña, Alvarez and Trout also hold tremendous value.

That covers some of the headliners to watch for as the 2023 Topps Baseball release approaches. As with any new set, the checklist and parallel structure won’t be fully revealed until closer to release date. But based on this year’s rookies and the continued popularity of stars, those cards profiled here have the best chance to be true chase cards that could gain significant value with time. For collectors and investors, keeping an eye out for these types of cards at release is highly recommended.

PLASTIC PAGES FOR BASEBALL CARDS

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Plastic pages have become a very popular way for baseball card collectors to store and protect their collections. By placing cards into plastic sleeves or sheets, collectors are able to keep their valuable cards in pristine condition for years to come. The stiff plastic material provides protection from the elements like moisture, dust, and fingerprints that can damage regular paper cards over time. With a growing number of rare and expensive vintage cards on the market, finding the right plastic storage option is crucial for serious collectors.

There are a few different types of plastic pages that collectors can choose from, each with their own pros and cons. Single card sleeves are the most basic option that allows you to slide each card into its own protective cover. These come in varying thicknesses from ultra-light penny sleeves up to thick toploaders and screwdown cases. Penny sleeves offer a very inexpensive way to shield a card but provide minimal impact resistance. Toploaders and screwdowns on the other hand will give much stronger protection against drops or bends. The downside is they take up more space in a binder or box.

Multi-card plastic sheets, often called “card savers”, hold anywhere from 3 to over 20 cards in slotted compartments. These allow you to efficiently store whole sets, teams, or categories of cards together in one protective sheet. Brands like Ultra Pro, BCW, and Dragon Shield make high quality archival safe multi-card pages. Some even have card counts imprinted on the front for easy set-building. Because you can fit more cards in less space versus individual sleeves, pages offer a compact storage solution that works well for building complete long term collections. Be wary though of cheaper thinner sheets that may warp or stain over time.

Binders are a common way collectors organize their sleeved or paged cards. D-ring binders have openings that allow pages to be easily inserted and removed as needed. Quality binders from Pro-Mold, Ultra Pro, and BCW feature dual-ring reinforcements and acid-free construction rated to preserve collectibles for decades. Look for binders specifically made for baseball cards with interior page slots sized properly for standard sleeves or sheets. Make sure the rings laying flat without bowing or tearing pages. Well constructed binders will keep pages securely in place during handling and transportation.

Another practical plastic storage system is card boxes. Various brands produce multi-compartment boxes tailored to baseball cards with dimensions to maximize space. Innovative designs utilize stacking trays, dividers, or specialized compartments. This makes it easy to organize collections alphabetically by player, by set or year. Box lids, handles, and reinforced walls provide added protection from crushing during storage. Acid-free archival boxes from companies like BCW, Plano, and Baseball Card Carry keep cards safeguarded long-term whether stacked on a shelf or tucked away.

When selecting plastic products for your baseball card collection, consider several important factors to maintain the integrity and condition of your investment over time. Avoid flimsy lower quality sleeves, sheets or binders that could warp, stain, or tear easily. Go with reputable brands well known among collectors for durable acid-free/PVC-free materials suitable for long-term storage. Thicker multi-mil sheets and sleeves afford more impact resistance than thin penny sleeves. Look for sizing tailored for baseball cards, whether in binder slots or box compartments. Proper fitting storage prevents damage from cramming squeezes. Store collections in a cool dark place away from direct heat/sunlight which can discolor plastics over years. With the right plastic protection, your baseball cards can be preserved in top condition for generations to admire.

BASEBALL CARDS HENDERSONVILLE NC

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Baseball cards have been a beloved hobby for collectors of all ages for decades. In Hendersonville, North Carolina, the baseball card scene is alive and well. From local shops dedicated entirely to cards to collectors clubs and conventions, there is a thriving community for those who enjoy amassing collections and staying up to date on the latest releases.

One of the most well-known destinations for baseball cards in Hendersonville is All-Star Sports Cards, located downtown on Main Street. Owned and operated by lifelong collector Mike Wilson, All-Star Sports Cards has been in business since 1990. The shop boasts over 10,000 square feet of retail space filled from floor to ceiling with boxes upon boxes of new and vintage cards. Mike and his knowledgeable staff are always happy to help customers of any experience level find what they’re looking for. Whether someone is just starting a collection or has been at it for 50 years, All-Star Sports Cards aims to have options for everyone.

In addition to carrying the latest releases from manufacturers like Topps, Panini, and Leaf, All-Star Sports Cards also has an immense inventory of vintage cards dating back to the very earliest days of the hobby in the late 1800s. Graded vintage cards from the T206 set all the way up to the late 1980s can be found. The shop also buys, sells, and trades cards, so it’s a one-stop-shop for collectors. Mike and his team even travel to some of the biggest card shows around the country like the National Sports Collectors Convention to procure new inventory.

For those looking to connect with other local collectors, the Hendersonville Area Baseball Card Collectors Club is a great resource. Founded in 1990, the club meets monthly at the Hendersonville Public Library. Dues are only $5 per year to join. At meetings, members can buy, sell, and trade cards among each other, get updates on upcoming shows and releases, and learn about best practices for collection organization, storage, and grading from more experienced collectors. The club also hosts an annual card show each spring that draws hundreds of attendees from across Western North Carolina. Vendors from as far away as Georgia come to sell, and the event features prize drawings and activities for kids.

While All-Star Sports Cards and the local collectors club are staples of the Hendersonville card scene, the area also attracts collectors from farther afield thanks to some major annual conventions. Each July, the Western North Carolina Sportscard and Memorabilia Show takes place just down the road in Asheville. Produced by Sports Collectors Digest, the show fills a massive convention center with hundreds of dealers. Attendees can find everything from the latest NBA Prizm parallels to game-worn jerseys and signed memorabilia. Major card companies and authenticators like PSA and BGS also have a presence. The show draws 5,000+ collectors each year and is a true mecca for the hobby in the region.

Hendersonville is also no stranger to the National Sports Collectors Convention, the largest and most prestigious show in the country. In 2023, the NSCC will make its first ever stop in the Carolinas, hosting its annual summer event July 20-23 at the Western North Carolina Agricultural Center just outside of town. Over its four decades, the NSCC has developed a reputation as a “once in a lifetime” experience where collectors can rub elbows with the biggest names in the business, view one-of-a-kind collections, and find inventory that simply doesn’t exist anywhere else. With an expected attendance of 10,000 collectors, the 2023 NSCC in Hendersonville is sure to provide a major economic boost for the area while cementing its status as a true hotbed for the hobby in the Southeast.

From the local shop dedicated entirely to the hobby to the major conventions that bring collectors from around the world, Hendersonville, NC has developed a vibrant baseball card community. Whether just starting out or a seasoned veteran, collectors of all stripes can find camaraderie and incredible inventory in Western North Carolina’s baseball card capital. With the rising popularity of the hobby especially among younger generations, the future remains bright for cards in Hendersonville.