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2019 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 2019 Topps baseball card set featured some of the biggest stars and top rookies in the game. While most packs and boxes of these cards can be found for reasonable prices, certain rare and sought-after rookie cards and veteran stars have increased tremendously in value since release. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable 2019 Topps baseball cards on the trading market today.

One of the biggest risers has been the Juan Soto Topps rookie card. Soto had a remarkable rookie season in 2018 that saw him become just the fourth teenager ever to hit over .300 with over 20 home runs. He continued building on that success in 2019 and has developed into a true superstar at just 21 years old. Soto’s rookie card has skyrocketed up collector want lists and the PSA 10 Gem Mint version recently sold for over $800. In a PSA 9 Near Mint condition, the Soto rookie has been selling in the $250-300 range.

Another phenom making a huge splash in the hobby is Eloy Jimenez. Like Soto the year before, Jimenez had a monster rookie year in 2019 that saw him hit 31 home runs for the White Sox. His rookie card has followed suit and the PSA 10 now goes for around $500-600. In a PSA 9, Jimenez rookie cards have been moving for $150-200. With his five-tool talent and prematurely dubbed “Baby Ruth” physique, Jimenez is primed to be one of the game’s next superstars and his rookie card prices should continue climbing.

Ronald Acuna Jr exploded onto the scene in 2018 and further entrenched himself as a budding superstar in 2019. The runner-up in 2018 NL Rookie of the Year voting, Acuna bashed 41 home runs in 2019 and became the second youngest player ever to hit 40 bombs in a season. Not surprisingly, his 2018 Topps Update rookie card parallel “Black Gold” parallel /50 has become one of the hottest modern rookie cards. Pristine PSA 10 examples have sold for over $8000 in recent months. Even Acuna’s base Topps Chrome rookie from 2018 Update in a PSA 10 is commanding $1000-1500 prices now.

Two of the biggest names from the 2019 Topps set are Mike Trout and Christian Yelich. Trout continued building his strong case as the greatest player of this generation, winning his third AL MVP in 2019 while hitting a career high .291. His base Topps rookie card remains one of the most iconic and valuable cards in the modern era, with PSA 10 copies selling for around $300-400 range. Yelich’s transformation into a true five-category superstar was cemented with his 2018 NL MVP followed by an equally dominant 2019. A PSA 10 of his flagship Topps card from 2019 has yielded $150-200 in sales.

Beyond the elite stars, some key veterans from the 2019 Topps set that are gaining steam include Max Scherzer, Jacob deGrom, and Alex Bregman. Despite entering his mid 30s, Scherzer has maintained ace status and dominance, winning Game 7 of the 2019 World Series. Bregman broke out in 2019 by capturing AL batting title while leading Astros to another 100 win season. DeGrom has solidified himself as the best pitcher in baseball over the past two years, winning back-to-back Cy Young awards. High graded examples of their flagship Topps cards from 2019 in PSA 10 are entering the $75-100 price range for each.

Among the high profile rookies beyond Soto and Jimenez, players like Vladimir Guerrero Jr, Pete Alonso, and Fernando Tatis Jr have boosted the values of their 2019 Topps rookie cards substantially in a short time. Guerrero became the third youngest player ever to hit three home runs in a game and showed why he’s a future superstar. Alonso smashed an MLB rookie record 53 home runs to claim NL Rookie of the Year and Tatis caught fire after a midseason call up to become a burgeoning star. Their flagship Topps rookies in PSA 10 grade have reached the $175-250 range and should continue appreciation as their careers blossom.

The 2019 Topps baseball card set featured some transcendent young talents like Soto, Acuna and Jimenez that are driving their rookie card prices through the roof as they cement all-time great potential. Established veterans Trout, Yelich, Scherzer and more also boasted flagship cards that are climbing steadily. And breakout emerging stars Guerrero Jr, Alonso and Tatis have vaulted their rookie cards to the top of want lists. With the combination of elite veterans, burgeoning young stars and hot rookie classes, the 2019 Topps set looks poised to produce some of the most valuable modern cards in the years to come.

MOST EXPENSIVE 2019 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2019 Topps Baseball card set featured some of the most valuable modern rookie cards and veteran star cards. While the design was polarizing with fans, the set featured rookies and veterans that have led to record prices being paid for certain cards on the secondary market over the past couple years. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable and expensive cards from the 2019 Topps Baseball release.

Heading the list is the prized rookie card of Juan Soto from the Washington Nationals. Soto exploded on the MLB scene in 2018 at just 19 years old, batting .292 with 22 home runs and 70 RBI in only 116 games. His 2019 Topps Base card (#334) has become one of the most iconic and recognizable modern rookie cards. Fresh PSA 10 Gem Mint copies of the Soto base card have eclipsed $1,000 and tend to sell in the $750-950 range consistently. His paper /499 parallel rookie cards also command big money, with the Gold parallel (#/50) reaching $2,500 PSA 10. The Soto rainbow foil parallel (#/25) has even topped $5,000 in pristine condition.

Another overwhelming rookie presence from 2019 Topps was Eloy Jimenez of the Chicago White Sox. While he didn’t have Soto’s inaugural campaign, Jimenez was one of MLB’s top prospects and didn’t disappoint in his full 2019 season with the Sox. His base rookie card (#209) also reaches $1,000+ in PSA 10 and has sold for as much as $1,250. Low numbered parallels also hold value, with the Sapphire parallel (#/50) hitting $2,000 in Gem Mint and the Gold parallel (#/10) reaching north of $3,000 PSA 10. Jimenez’s cards remain strong with believers in his continued breakout potential.

Speaking of big time prospects, the prized rookie card of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. of the Toronto Blue Jays commands huge prices despite a slightly disappointing starting MLB career so far. His is one of the most iconic rookie cards from any set in recent years due to his legendarybloodline. In pristine PSA 10 condition, his Topps base rookie (#377) has sold for as much as $2,000 in auction. The lower print parallels also carry premier values, such as over $3,000 for the Gold parallel (#/50) and $5,000+ for the extremely rare Black parallel (#/5) in Gem Mint 10. Vladdy Jr. remains one to watch and his card prices could surge higher if he develops into the superstar many foresee.

Meanwhile, the cards of established veterans who continued producing at elite levels also gained immense popularity and value from 2019 Topps. Chief among them is Christian Yelich, who was coming off an NL MVP campaign in 2018 only to follow it up by winning the batting title in 2019 as well. The Milwaukee Brewer’s base card (#99) enjoys a strong $350-500 PSA 10 market. But his most desired issue has become the rainbow foil parallel (#/25), with two recent PSA 10 sales eclipsing $2,500 each. It’s clear Yelich mania is in full effect card-wise after back-to-back breakout seasons.

Another clean-shaven veteran star who caught fire card-price wise was Cody Bellinger of the Los Angeles Dodgers. In addition to defending his NL Rookie of the Year crown in 2018, Bellinger one-upped things in 2019 by being named NL MVP. Not surprisingly, his Topps base issue (#43) finds the $400-600 range in pristine PSA 10 condition. Similar to Yelich, Bellinger’s most sought parallel has become the ultra-short print rainbow foil (#/25), with a recent PSA 10 bringing nearly $3,000. With many predicting continued stardom for the Dodgers’ young outfielder, Bellinger and his cards maintain scorching value in the collecting world.

Rounding out the high-dollar favorites from 2019 Topps are a couple of living legends who keep defying Father Time on the field—and collectors in the marketplace. Mike Trout of the Los Angeles Angels remains perhaps the most coveted name in the hobby. His base issue (#32) steadily trades hands for $350-$500 in PSA 10. But the trophy cards reside in his parallels, such as $2,000+ for the Gold (#/50) and over $5,000 achieved for the Black parallel (#/5) when pristine. Trout as the sport’s pre-eminent player is shown in the premium prices people gladly pay to add him to their collections.

One cannot ignore perhaps the greatest of all time, who like Trout showed in 2019 he’s still capable of performing at an otherworldly level deep into his late 30s—Los Angeles Dodgers Piazza Ave. icon Clayton Kershaw. The lefty reaffirmed his legend status with another top-three Cy Young season and led L.A. to a pennant. Accordingly, his flagship Topps issue (#253) now calls $500-650 home in perfect condition. But the real gems—and financial commitments required—lie within his parallels. Recent sales of a PSA 10 Gold parallel (#/50) reached $2,500, with his Black parallel (#/5) astonishingly trading at $7,500. Collectors remain in awe and wish to commemorate Kershaw’s genius through his premium cards.

The 2019 Topps baseball release provided an intriguing bounty of modern rookie phenoms and established veterans who continued producing at the highest levels. Cards of Juan Soto, Eloy Jimenez, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Christian Yelich, Cody Bellinger, Mike Trout and Clayton Kershaw in particular have led the most expensive listings within the set over the past couple years. With these players’ careers unfolding in real time and additional accomplishments adding to their legend, the financial commitment required is a tribute to collectors’ desire to stake claim to documenting some of the best performers in today’s national pastime through their prestigious cardboard.

MOST VALUABLE 2019 BOWMAN BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2019 Bowman baseball card release offered collectors a chance to acquire rookie cards and prospects of some of the game’s top young talent. While it may be early to project long-term value given most of these players have just begun their careers, certain cards from the 2019 Bowman set have already gained significant value based on prospect hype and early MLB success. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable 2019 Bowman baseball cards on the market today based on recently sold listings.

One of the biggest risers has been Eloy Jimenez of the Chicago White Sox. Jimenez made his MLB debut in 2019 and showed why he is considered one of baseball’s best hitting prospects, batting .267 with 31 home runs and 79 RBI in his first full season. Jimenez’s rookie card from 2019 Bowman Draft is one of the set’s most coveted, with PSA 10 Gem Mint examples recently selling for over $1,000. Even raw, ungraded Jimenez rookie cards in near-mint to mint condition have sold for $300-500. This is a great return for a card from a product that had a $125 MSRP per factory-sealed box.

Another White Sox prospect shining in the majors is Luis Robert. Signed out of Cuba to a $26 million deal in 2017, Robert made his MLB debut in 2020 and hit .233 with 12 home runs in 52 games. This furthered hype around the uber-athletic outfielder. Robert’s prized rookie card from 2019 Bowman Draft Base sells for around $150-250 in PSA 10 Gem Mint grade, while raw copies trade hands for $50-100 based on condition. As Robert continues developing in the majors, his 2019 Bowman cards stand to gain even more in value long term.

Staying in the AL Central, one of the top prospects hailing from the Cleveland Indians organization is outfielder Daniel Johnson. Though he spent most of the 2019 season at Double-A, Johnson displayed five-tool talents that have collectors excited about his upside. His 2019 Bowman Draft Red Refractor Parallel #109 sells in the $75-200 range depending on grade, with raw versions in the $30-75 range based on centering and edges. As Johnson makes his way up the Indians prospect rankings, his cards could grow steadily in the coming years.

One of baseball’s best farm systems belongs to the Tampa Bay Rays, and Wander Franco tops their loaded prospect list. Considered by many to be the best overall prospect in baseball, Franco’s prized card is his 2019 Bowman Draft Green Refractor Auto #99. Graded PSA 10 Gems have sold for over $2,000 and remain the most valuable card from the 2019 Bowman Draft set. Even raw Franco autos from the product trade in the $300-500 range. Still just 19, Franco is likely MLB-bound by 2021 and his cards should become even more significant holdings.

While the above prospects were featured in Bowman Draft, the standard Bowman base set also offered access to future stars. Shortstop Bo Bichette of the Toronto Blue Jays exploded onto the scene in 2019 and his Topps Project 2020 campaign further boosted interest in his early cards. Bichette’s 2019 Bowman Silver Pack Pink Refractor Parallel #163 has sold for between $150-300 in PSA 10 Gem condition, with raw copies in the $50-150 range. Other 2019 Bowman Bichette parallels also hold premium value according to grade and parallel status due to his early success in Toronto.

Another 2019 Bowman hitter who made his MLB debut that year is Tigers outfielder Christin Stewart. Although Stewart posted just a .639 OPS as a rookie in 2019, collectors recognize his raw lefty power. Stewart’s 2019 Bowman Draft Purple Refractor #93 graded PSA 10 has sold for around $150 recently while raw copies sell for $30-75 typically. Stewart has put himself back on the prospect map with a strong 2020 season split between Detroit and the team’s Triple-A affiliate, raising optimism around his cards long term.

Few organizations have as many elite pitching prospects rising together like the San Diego Padres. MacKenzie Gore is considered the crown jewel of their loaded system. Gore’s 2019 Bowman Draft Chrome Green Refractor Auto #6 sells for $300-500 raw and $600-800 PSA 10 Gem Mint. Meanwhile, 2019 Bowman Draft Base Paper RCs of Gore trade in the $40-80 range depending on condition. Gore is poised for a 2021 MLB debut and it will be exciting to track how his already valuable rookies perform in the long run.

While most of the above cards showcase future star prospects and young MLB talent, 2019 Bowman also provided a unique antique-style Mike Trout card that has captured collector attention. Trout’s 2019 Throwback Thursday SP Autograph parallel numbered to just 5 copies is the true blockbuster card from the set so far. Though Trout remains in the prime of his career and not a prospect, one ungraded copy successfully sold on eBay for over $4,000 last year given its rarity and retro aesthetic paying homage to the earliest years of the hobby.

While it’s still quite early, certain key 2019 Bowman rookie cards like Eloy Jimenez, Luis Robert and Wander Franco are already making their case as worthwhile long-term investments based on their prospect pedigrees converting to success at the MLB level. As prospects like MacKenzie Gore, Daniel Johnson and Bo Bichette hopefully fulfill lofty expectations, their 2019 Bowman cards hold great future potential as well. For die-hard player collectors, finding treasures like a rare Trout parallel only enhances the appeal of this fun 2019 baseball card release from Topps.

2019 TOPPS BASEBALL BEST CARDS

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The 2019 Topps flagship baseball card set marked the 67th year of production for the iconic brand. As with every Topps release, the 2019 offering featured a wide variety of designs, parallels, short prints, and inserts to satisfy collectors across all levels of interest and budgets. With hundreds of players included across base cards, rookie cards, veteran hits and more, selecting the “best cards” from the 2019 Topps set involved weighing factors like on-field performance, popularity, rarity, and design aesthetics. Here are some of the strongest contenders for the title of 2019 Topps baseball’s best cards:

Perhaps the biggest star on the baseball diamond in 2019 was Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout, who took home his third AL MVP award. Unsurprisingly, Trout’s base card found itself among the most sought-after in the set. Topps hit a home run by featuring Trout in an intense action shot at the plate, swinging with ferocity. The simple yet powerful image captured Trout at the top of his game and increased demand for the card. Another Angels star, Shohei Ohtani, also enjoyed a breakout season after debuting in 2018 following successful stints in Japan and the minors. Ohtani’s base card showed him pitching, representative of his extreme two-way talents. While injuries limited Ohtani’s playing time in ’19, his performance and future potential still made him a coveted rookie card.

One of the Topps brand’s strongest traditions is highlighting top prospects and early-career stars in their “Bowman” and “Chrome” parallels. In 2019, no rookie caught more attention than that of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. of the Toronto Blue Jays. After months of hype as one of the minors’ top-ranked prospects, Guerrero finally made his much-anticipated MLB debut in 2019. Collectors went wild for Guerrero’s Topps Chrome Refractor RC, featuring a sparkling image of the young slugger taking a mighty cut. Guerrero gave collectors an encore performance with his Topps paper base RC card, showcasing his confident stance at the plate. Also in high demand were the rookie cards of Eloy Jimenez (White Sox), Pete Alonso (Mets), and Chris Paddack (Padres), three impact rookies who achieved success immediately in the big leagues.

While stars on present-day teams received plenty of card love from Topps in 2019, legends of the past weren’t forgotten either. “Topps Now” flashback cards honored pitching icons Sandy Koufax and Bob Gibson with specially designed parallel versions featuring stunning black-and-white action photographs from their prime years. Koufax’s cutter and Gibson’s high leg kick were captured in all their glory. Topps also produced a moving tribute to the late Roy Halladay with a “Hall of Fame” parallel card, honoring the iconic pitcher on the field where he found immortality. For collectors seeking iconic names from baseball history mixed with modern rarity, these flashback cards resonated strongly.

Topps has long been adept at crafting insert sets highlighting unique achievements, performances and milestones. In 2019, no player had a bigger year at the plate than New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso, who swatted an NL-rookie record 53 home runs. Topps commemorated Alonso’s mammoth total with a “53 Homers” parallel card that featured a powerful graphic displaying his home run leader status. Meanwhile, Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Christian Yelich took home his first NL batting title by hitting an otherworldly .329. The “Hitting Machine” parallel card Topps created to salute Yelich’s excellence at the plate with its robotic design became an instant must-have. Adding modern flair were various Topps “Now & Then” parallels marrying classic photographs with present-day action shots to honor longevity and links to baseball’s past.

Topps also introduced a “Fractured” subset in 2019 that split player photographs across four cards in an abstract, Cubist-inspired design. While unconventional, the creativity shown through Fractured cards featuring stars like Mookie Betts, Max Scherzer and others became collector favorites for their novelty. Rounding out the inserts were perennial Topps fan favorites like “Photo Shoot” cards giving a behind-the-scenes look at annual player portraits and the ever-popular “Heritage” retro parallels mimicking designs of the 1970s. The 2019 Topps set showed that a combination of star power, rookie phenoms, achievements, parallels and creative designs allowed for no shortage of “hits” across all types of collectors.

Clearly, the sky-high performances of players like Trout, Guerrero Jr., Alonso and Yelich in 2019, mixed with Topps’ wide assortment of inserts, parallels and innovative designs, led to a banner year in terms of standout cards from the flagship baseball set. With rookies becoming immediate impact stars and veterans cementing legendary careers, the 2019 Topps release captured both the past and future of America’s pastime. For dedicated collectors seeking the most meaningful MLB cards to commemorate a historic season, many of the strongest contenders resided within the pages of the Topps 2019 baseball release thanks to a potent mix of on-field excellence and creative cardboard commemorations.

2019 BOWMAN BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2019 Bowman Baseball card set was released on April 10th, 2019 by Topps and is one of the most highly anticipated baseball card releases each year. Bowman is known for featuring prospects, debut cards of top draft picks, and young MLB stars in their early career. Some of the biggest rookies and prospects in 2019 included Vladimir Guerrero Jr, Eloy Jimenez, Michael Kopech, Gleyber Torres and many others. This set provides a first glimpse at the future of Major League Baseball.

The base set includes 330 cards total with photographic images of players in Minor League, MLB, international and draft pick subsets. As with every Bowman release, there is rookie autograph and memorabilia card chase that collectors seek after. Notable rookies in 2019 included Bo Bichette, Alex Kirilloff, Forrest Whitley and other top prospects. The set design showcased a clean look with simple team logo adornments on a white background. While not the flashiest design compared to modern sets, it highlighted the raw talent and allowed the photos to stand out.

Within the base set are several notable parallels and short prints that increase the chase and excitement for collectors. The main parallels in 2019 Bowman included multiple color prizms, gold label cards numbered to 2019 copies, and sepia tone parallels. Some of the most coveted short prints involved low numbered photo variations and negative image cards. Collectors enjoy the hunt for these scarcer parallel cards that hold premium value. The immense pool of prospects also fuels speculation on future breakout players, keeping the player collection aspect engaging for years.

A major component of Bowman each year is the international prospect subset, introducing the next wave of global stars. The 2019 release featured 81 cards highlighting prospects from countries like Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Japan, Italy and others. Names like Luis Matos, Gabriel Arias and Omar Estevez were some of the top international prospects included. These players had yet to sign with MLB organizations, adding another layer of uncertainty but excitement. Several players from past Bowman international subsets have gone on to stardom like Ronald Acuna Jr, Juan Soto and Shohei Ohtani.

When it comes to autograph and memorabilia cards, Bowman is arguably the premier release for highest end baseball cards. The chance to pull a rookie swatch or signature of a future Hall of Famer is part of what makes Bowman so desirable. In 2019, the top hits included Vlad Guerrero Jr autographs, Eloy Jimenez relics, and Bo Bichette patch cards. Numbered parallels like gold ink, sepia and negative versions added immense value to pulls. Memorabilia cards often featured intricate swatches with intricate threads to represent the player’s uniform.

A unique aspect of Bowman is the draft picks subset that highlights players signed directly out of that year’s amateur draft. The 2019 class included star pitchers like JJ Bleday, Jackson Rutledge and Brennan Malone freshly signed by their new organizations. While the players had little track record, the set gave collectors an early opportunity to acquire cards before they ever played a professional game. Several draft picks over the years like Kris Bryant and Ronald Acuna Jr went on to superstardom, making their debut Bowman cards extremely valuable investments.

In terms of inserts, Bowman incorporated a variety of hittable short prints and parallel cards to enhance collector interest. Rainbow Foil cards numbered to the franchise’s year of origin added a vintage design element. Team affinity inserts highlighted franchise’s top prospects together on one card. Gold label relics and refractors numbered under 100 pieces added extreme rarity. Trading cards of MLB stars from years past like Johnny Bench and Tom Seaver paid homage to the pedigree of the Bowman brand name in baseball cards.

When released in April 2019, the overall reception from the card collecting community was extremely positive. The blend of rookie talents, hits and parallels provided appeal to both player collectors and investors alike. Several of the top MLB rookies from that season like Pete Alonso and Yordan Alvarez had their official rookie card debut in Bowman, driving early interest. In the years since, stars like Bo Bichette, Gavin Lux and Dustin May have flourished, raising the value of their 2019 Bowman cards considerably. The set success reinforced Bowman’s stature as the preeminent baseball card product for following future stars at the earliest stage.

In the legacy of sets past, 2019 Bowman showcased a new generation of baseball’s brightest talents. While results on the field cannot be predicted, the cards live on as a commemorative snapshot of optimism and potential. For modern baseball card collectors, Bowman 2019 served as a unique opportunity to be among the first to acquire cards of athletes before their legend was forged. With its mix of established prospects, draft picks and undiscovered international stars and one of one hits, 2019 Bowman delivered the first glimpse and greatest potential of intrigue of any release that year.

2019 BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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The 2019 baseball season saw many rookie stars make their MLB debuts and established veterans continue to produce at high levels. As with any year, certain baseball cards from 2019 releases have gained valuable and some could become quite lucrative long-term investments. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top 2019 baseball cards that currently hold strong worth and have potential to increase in value over time.

Starting with rookies, cards of Philadelphia Phillies starter Aaron Nola from 2019 Topps products have already gained value after another strong season cementing his status as one of baseball’s best young arms. In PSA 10 condition, Nola’s base rookie card now sells for around $50-75 but could multiply in price if he continues elevating his game and resume. Fellow Phillie pitchers Spencer Howard and Alec Bohm also made their MLB debuts in 2020 and have seen early card prices gain due to prospect hype and future potential. Howard and Bohm rookie cards from 2019 Bowman Draft and 2020 Topps have sold for $10-25 each so far but could appreciate greatly if either becomes an impact big leaguer.

Moving to the American League, players like Bo Bichette, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Yordan Alvarez made splashes on the big league scene in 2019. Bichette and Guerrero especially took the baseball world by storm as two of the best Blue Jays prospects in recent memory. Their 2019 Topps Chrome and Bowman Chrome rookie refractors have already climbed above the $100 mark in high grades due to their immediate popularity and production. If either turns into a superstar, those early cards could multiply in value by massive amounts down the road. Alvarez didn’t debut until late 2019 but made a strong impression with prodigious power. His base rookie cards now change hands for $25-50 and might grow steeply if he becomes a perennial All-Star and continues mashing at a prolific rate.

The National League also saw future stars in Pete Alonso, Fernando Tatis Jr. and others. Alonso took home 2019 NL Rookie of the Year honors after swatting a rookie record 53 home runs for the New York Mets. His flagship Topps Chrome rookie refractor has settled around the $150-250 range for top grades due to his massive popularity and power potential. If Alonso keeps hitting at such a high rate for years to come, those early cards could net collectors thousands someday. Tatis burst onto the scene as one of baseball’s most exciting young talents in 2019 with the San Diego Padres. While injuries slowed his momentum some in 2020, Tatis’ electrifying play and top prospect pedigree have pushed his 2019 Topps Series 1 rookie card values up near $100 PSA 10 already. Increased longevity and production at an elite level long-term could make his early cards explode in secondary market worth.

Beyond rookies, superstar veterans from 2019 like Christian Yelich, Cody Bellinger, Mike Trout and others still carry valuable cardboard. Trout remained arguably the best player in baseball in 2019 and any of his base cards from the season in high grades move for $100-300 minimum. Yelich and Bellinger came off incredible 2018 campaigns by winning the NL MVP and NL races again respectively in 2019. Their 2019 Topps flagship and Chrome parallels have remained hot, with PSA 10 examples selling $75-200. Those early cards for proven future Hall of Famers should only gain in value through the coming decades.

2019 also saw historic performances from veteran sluggers like Ronald Acuna Jr. and Mookie Betts that spiked cardboard interest. Acuna followed up his 2018 Rookie of the Year season by batting .280 with 41 home runs and 37 stolen bases for the Atlanta Braves at just age 21, showing frightening all-around skills. His already-valuable rookie cards skyrocketed and 2019 updates gained appreciation too, with hobby-direct parallels reaching $50-150. Betts also proceeded one of the best individual seasons ever by any ballplayer in 2018 en route to a Red Sox World Series, then batted .295 with 29 homers and 80 RBI in a down year by his lofty standards in 2019. Top Betts cards including flagship rookies and 2019 Topps parallels command $75-300 based on his career production and ultimate Hall of Fame potential.

Beyond players, there were also several major moments and milestones commemorated in 2019 baseball cards that spiked interest. Cards recognizing Albert Pujols’ journey to 700 career home runs, Mariano Rivera’s unanimous Hall of Fame induction and cards celebrating historic ballparks like Baltimore’s Camden Yards and Toronto’s SkyDome carried premium value after those achievements. Parallel and autograph versions of such “hits” could sell in the hundreds due to capturing such iconic moments. Rookies like Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. also had a father-son debut moment in Toronto that was spotlighted on 2019 cards interesting to collectors of full sets and themes.

While only a year removed, many 2019 baseball cards stand out as especially collectible and hold valuable worth based around star players, historic accomplishments and intriguing rookie debuts. Continued production from stars like Trout, Bellinger, deGrom and others as well as meteoric ascents of newcomers such as Acuna, Tatis and Bichette have defined the past year in cardboard and those trends seem positioned to amplify secondary market values moving forward. For discerning collectors, certain 2019 rookies, parallels and memorabilia cards offer strong long-term potential as investments if held for appreciation over the coming decades.

2019 BOWMAN DRAFT BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2019 Bowman Draft baseball card set was released on June 5, 2019, just days after the MLB First-Year Player Draft concluded. As with all annual Bowman Draft sets, it highlights the top amateur players selected in that year’s draft class. The 2019 edition was especially notable due to the caliber of prospects included after what was widely considered a deep draft crop. With its release coming so soon after draft night, the 2019 Bowman Draft set provided baseball card collectors their first opportunity to obtain cards featuring the newly drafted players as professional athletes.

Some key things to know about the 2019 Bowman Draft checklist and product highlights include:

The base set contains 250 cards, with each MLB team represented by 10 cards showing off their selected draft picks. Several of the early first round picks received multiple photo variations in the base set as well.

Prominent rookie prospects like Adley Rutschman, Bobby Witt Jr., Andrew Vaughn, Corbin Carroll, and Riley Greene were among those with base cards highlighting their draft selection. All 5 were taken within the top 15 picks of the draft.

Parallels and short prints added to the excitement of chasing top names. Rutschman had a Lime Green parallel /99 and Orange parallel /50. Witt Jr. had Orange /50 and Pink /75 versions. Short prints were even harder to find with a print run of just /10 or less for top cards.

Bonus packs contained authenticated swatches or autographs of draft picks. The hit rates ran around 1:4 packs. While swatches of lower round players were more common, exciting autograph pulls included Rutschman, Witt Jr., Vaughn, Brett Baty and more.

Special “1st Bowman” autographed parallels for top prospects added extremely rare, coveted chase cards to the set. Rutschman, Witt Jr. and Greene all had autograph parallels numbered to just 5 copies each.

International prospect bonuses were included as short prints highlighting some of the biggest global signings after the draft like Raimfer Salinas, Shalin Polanco and Oliver Crawford.

Retail boxes of 2019 Bowman Draft sold for around $90-100 and contained 12 packs with 3 cards per pack. Hobby jumbo boxes retailed for roughly $150-175 and included 24 packs.

The release continued Topps’ tradition of showing off draft talent within a couple months of them signing. It allowed collectors to quickly lay claim to a player’s “first” baseball card despite them not yet playing a professional game.

In the weeks following its release, the 2019 Bowman Draft set became a hit in the hobby. Strong prospect class coupled with the instant gratification of obtaining cards of newly drafted talents drove enthusiasts to rip packs. Early 1st edition Rutschman and Witt Jr. base rookies climbed to over $100 each on the resale market showing how desirable their cardboard debuts became.

Additional promotional opportunities helped spike initial interest as well. Topps hosted free giveaways and contests including chances to win 1/1 printing plates of top draft picks. Bloggers and breakers posted box break videos of jumbo cases online generating social media buzz around big autographed pulls. Within the tight-knit baseball card collecting community, excitement bubbled around the set all summer long.

Of course, the true value of any draft class isn’t realized for several years until prospects develop in the minors and hopefully reach the major leagues. While some shine brightly from the start like Rutschman, others may flame out or pace their rise slower. The 2019 Bowman Draft cards provided an entrance point for collectors excited to track these young talents. It served as an annual snapshot preserving the early stage of their pro careers before time and performance dictated their trajectory.

For dedicated players draft enthusiasts, it was a can’t miss annual release from Topps. The combination of a premiere talent crop, autographs, parallels and reasonably available retail product made it a strong overall offering. Coupled with the instant gratification factor of having the new draftee’s “rookie” cards so quickly, it sparked plenty of breaks, box rips and resell sales driving extensive hobby attention all summer. Even years down the road as 2019 draftees progress, their debut cardboard in the flagship Bowman Draft issue will remain a cherished part of baseball card history chronicling this exciting class.

The 2019 Bowman Draft baseball card set showcased an elite group of amateur prospects with memorable cards including top rookies, parallels, autographs and bonuses. Released just weeks after that year’s MLB draft concluded, it allowed collectors to promptly obtain the newly drafted players’ first official cardboard. Strong initial interest was generated through reseller speculation on names like Rutschman and Witt Jr. while breaks and social media spotlighted big autographed pulls. Its affordable retail boxes also made it accessible to many. The 2019 Bowman Draft became both an instant gratification release for collectors and a preserving snapshot of that year’s touted draft class entering pro ball.

BEST ROOKIE BASEBALL CARDS 2019

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The 2019 baseball season saw the emergence of many talented rookie players who are poised to have bright futures in Major League Baseball. These new stars created plenty of excitement for collectors and their rookie cards became highly sought after. With so many great rookies, it can be difficult to determine which 2019 rookie cards hold the most value and have the best investment potential long term. Here’s an in-depth look at some of the top rookie cards from last season that collectors should keep an eye on.

Perhaps the most hyped rookie of 2019 was Pete Alonso of the New York Mets. Coming off a dominant season in the minors where he smashed 36 home runs, expectations were high for Alonso in his first MLB campaign. He exceeded all expectations by blasting an incredible 53 home runs to set a new rookie record. Alonso’s prodigious power made him an instant star and the face of the Mets franchise. Not surprisingly, his 2019 Topps Chrome Refractor rookie card #RC-P has become one of the most sought after cards on the market. Graded mint condition copies have already sold for over $1,000, showing how beloved Alonso is already among collectors. His Topps flagship rookie is also highly valuable due to the brand name. As Alonso’s career progresses, these cards stand to gain even more value if he continues mashing home runs at his current pace.

Another slugging rookie who made headlines in 2019 was Eloy Jimenez of the Chicago White Sox. Jimenez showed off impressive power with 31 home runs in his first full season. While he may not have broken any records like Alonso, Jimenez has all the tools to be a perennial All-Star. His 2019 Topps Chrome Refractor rookie #RC-EJ is a favorite among collectors and has sold for $500-800 in top grades. Jimenez also has a prized Bowman Chrome Prospect card from 2018 that is regarded as one of the best modern prospect cards on the market. His combination of raw talent and marketability in a big city like Chicago point to Jimenez having a bright future, making his rookie cards solid long term investments.

Fernando Tatis Jr. burst onto the scene with the San Diego Padres in 2019, showcasing elite skills both at the plate and in the field at just 20 years old. Tatis immediately became a fan favorite in San Diego with his swagger and highlight reel plays. He finished third in NL Rookie of the Year voting after slashing .317/.379/.590 with 22 home runs in just 84 games. Tatis’ 2019 Topps Chrome Refractor rookie #RC-FT is highly sought after by collectors and has sold for over $300 in near-mint condition. His prospect cards from 2017 Bowman also hold value due to his status as one of the game’s top young stars. Tatis has superstar potential and collecting his rookie cards now could pay major dividends down the road.

While position players tend to get more attention, starting pitchers can also make for valuable rookie cards. One such arm is Chris Paddack of the San Diego Padres. Paddack made his presence known in 2019 by posting an impressive 3.33 ERA and 0.98 WHIP across 26 starts in his rookie campaign. His control and pitching savvy were on full display. The 23-year old righty has established himself as the ace of the Padres staff heading into 2020. His 2019 Topps Chrome Refractor rookie card #RC-CP sells in the $150 range and has room to increase if Paddack continues delivering as a frontline starter. As one of the few impact rookie pitchers from last season, his cards hold appeal.

Another rookie hurler who showed promise was Bryan Garcia of the Philadelphia Phillies. Garcia made his MLB debut at age 25 in 2019 after working his way up from independent ball. He impressed in his brief time in the majors with a 2.62 ERA and 1.19 WHIP in 12 appearances. While Garcia is a bit older than the typical top prospect, his journey adds to his story. Collectors have taken a liking to his 2019 Topps Chrome Refractor rookie card #RC-BG which sells for $50-75 in top condition. Garcia may not have the long term upside of others on this list, but his card could rise if he solidifies a spot in the Phillies bullpen or proves capable as a starter.

Beyond the rookies who made their big league debuts in 2019, prospects who had standout minor league seasons like Bo Bichette also gained traction among collectors. Bichette tore up Double and Triple-A in 2018-2019 before getting called up to the Toronto Blue Jays, where he continued mashing. His 2018 Bowman Chrome Prospect card #BCP-96 remains one of the most sought after modern prospect issues on the secondary market, routinely selling for $300-500 in top grades. After an impressive rookie campaign in 2019 where he hit .311, Bichette looks ready to be a star for years to come. His early prospect cards could end up being real gems for savvy collectors.

The 2019 rookie class featured many future building blocks for their respective franchises like Alonso, Tatis Jr., Jimenez and Paddack. Their flagship rookie cards from Topps Chrome and Bowman have already gained significant value and will likely continue appreciating over the long run if these players live up to expectations. Prospect cards for the likes of Bichette are also worth hanging onto. While baseball cards are never a sure thing, focusing collection efforts on star rookies from a talented class like 2019 provides the best chance of long term returns. Following the careers of these rising young stars will be exciting both on the field and for the hobby.

TOP SELLING BASEBALL CARDS 2019

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The baseball card market continued to thrive in 2019 with collectors spending big money on vintage cards and modern rookie cards alike. As in years past, classic cards of legendary players like Mickey Mantle and Ken Griffey Jr topped sales charts. However, 2019 also saw huge demand and record prices paid for stars just beginning their careers like Ronald Acuña Jr and Pete Alonso.

Leading the way as the highest selling baseball card of 2019 was a 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle in pristine near-mint to mint condition. This iconic Mantle rookie card garnered a winning bid of $2.88 million through Goldin Auctions in January. While it didn’t set a new record, it once again proved Mantle’s cards as the most coveted and valuable in the hobby. Collectors are willing to pay top dollar for the chance to own one of the approximately 50-100 PSA/BGS graded examples in existence of The Mick’s classic rookie.

In at number two was a 1991 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr rookie card that changed hands for $350,000 through PWCC Marketplace in November. The card received strong marks of PSA Gem Mint 10, the highest possible grade. Griffey was a fan favorite during his playing career and his rookie cards from 1989-90 remain exceedingly popular with collectors to this day. The high price paid is indicative of enduring demand for superb conditioned copies of Jr’s seminal rookie issue.

The number three spot on the top selling baseball cards list went to an autographed 2001 Bowman Chrome Vladimir Guerrero rookie card for $249,500. Guerrero produced one of the finest careers of any player in the early 2000s. His popularity in Montreal translated well to cards and this rare on-card autograph added desirable scarcity to an already elite rookie. The card sold through Goldin Auctions in April.

Moving into present-day players, a record for a living player was set by a 2018 Bowman Chrome Ronald Acuña Jr rookie auto-patch card that went for $150,000 in February. Acuña erupted onto the scene in 2018 with Atlanta and became an immediate fan favorite with his power, speed and flair. The 21-year old continues to develop into a true five-tool superstar. The 1/1 serial numbered card proved Acuña’s star power extends into the collectibles realm as well.

Finishing off the top five was a 1978 Topps Cal Ripken Jr rookie card in PSA 8 condition selling for $123,168 through Goldin Auctions in June. While not his true rookie card debut, Cal Ripken’s enduring iron man legacy and status as a Baltimore icon translated to strong demand for high grade copies of his early baseball cards. The PSA 8 condition represented exceptional eye appeal for such an historic rookie issue from Ripken’s MVP career.

Down the list at number six was a record-setting sale that perfectly encapsulated the frenzy for Pete Alonso’s 2019 rookie cards. A PSA 10 Example of Alonso’s Topps Supplemental Photo Variation card rocketed to $90,000 through Heritage Auctions in November. Alonso’s 53 home run rookie campaign for the Mets, which included winning the 2019 Home Run Derby and NL Rookie of the Year Award, had collectors chasing his cards all season long. This perfect gem mint copy illustrated how rookie phenoms in the hobby can turn cardboard into gold.

Slotting in at seventh on the leaderboard was a 1988 Topps Traded Ken Griffey Jr rookie card in PSA 8 condition that changed hands privately for $80,000 through Goldin Auctions in July. Griffey’s legendary 1989 Upper Deck rookie gets most of the attention, but his 1988 Traded issue debut is also a highly coveted card within the Griffey collection community. The strong eight grade allowed buyers a shot at this historically significant Griffey issue in excellent condition without breaking the bank.

The eighth highest selling baseball card of 2019 was a 1996 SP Derek Jeter rookie card in PSA 10 Gem Mint that swapped hands for $65,000 at auction in February. Jeter’s career and Yankees fandom translated into eternal demand for his rookie cards from 1996, though the high grade SP issue stands apart for its colorful design and rarity in pristine condition. Much like Cal Ripken and Ken Griffey Jr before him, Jeter’s cards represent one of the most popular collections for hobbyists and investors alike.

The ninth slot went to a pristine 1998 Bowman’s Best Refractor Ken Griffey Jr. card that pulled in $51,000 this past June. Griffey’s spectacular rookie years on the Mariners made any of his 1990s inserts and parallels highly collectible. But the 1998 Bowman’s Best stand out for their true-to-the-name “best” selection of photography and on-card refractor technology that pops in the protective case. Near-perfect grades bring out big bucks for what remains a modern masterpiece from Jr’s prime.

Rounding out the list at number ten was a 1998 Bowman Chrome Mike Piazza Refractor Rookie/Star rookie card in BGS 9.5/10 condition fetching $48,000 in August. Piazza was one of the top offensive catchers of all time and his star power shined through with collectors of 90s cards. The 1998 Bowman Chrome set featured some of the first refractors in modern cardboard collecting. In a gem quality BGS slab, this Piazza stands out as an elite rookie to own for fans of vintage 90s inserts and stars of that era.

The baseball card market entered new territory in 2019 with record sales in the multi-million, quarter-million, and hundred-thousand dollar ranges. While vintage stars like Mantle, Griffey, and Ripken maintained their status atop the charts, modern rookies proved their cardboard can carry value too through Acuña and Alonso’s rise. Tied closely to performance on the field and condition under the plastic, the highest selling baseball cards each year provide an exclusive view of the game’s most prized collectibles.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 2019

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Baseball card collecting is one of America’s most popular and enduring hobbies. Each year, Topps produces the flagship baseball card sets that millions of fans eagerly await. Their 2019 offerings did not disappoint, with a variety of products spanning all levels of collectors.

Topps flagship series is always among the most anticipated releases each year. For 2019, Topps continued their long tradition with the release of Series 1, Series 2, and Update in traditional wax pack and hobby box formats. Series 1 debuted in late March/early April, as it does annually. The 525 card base set featured all active major league players along with prospects and past stars. Rookies like Pete Alonso and Fernando Tatis Jr. were highly sought after by collectors. Veterans like Mike Trout, Christian Yelich, and Cody Bellinger landed among the visually striking parallel and short print variants inserted throughout packs and boxes at reduced odds.

Building on the base roster, Topps Series 2 was released in late June/early July with another 500+ card base set highlighting the seasons’ events to that point. Recent call-ups and additional prospects joined the ranks as the mid-season roster shuffle took place across MLB. Veterans maintained insert and parallel placement while new stars emerged, with cards of players like Yordan Alvarez and Brandon Lowe in high demand. Topps Update arrived in late August/September with the usual assortment of rookie cup parallels, postseason statistical updates, and playoff/World Series highlights incorporated into the set which reached approximately 250 cards. All 3 flagship series remained a vital part of the collecting landscape once again in 2019.

While the core Series 1-2-Update releases anchored the Topps baseball release calendar as per usual, the company also delivered an array of popular specialized products. Their Chrome set returned for its 22nd year with its usual refractor parallel inserts adding dazzle to the cards of baseball’s top talents. The Allen & Ginter set saw its seventh Topps release with oddball parallels and player items incorporated into woodgrain framed cards. Heritage Minors released cards of notable prospects in the vintage-inspired design also used for Topps Heritage’s major league set released separately.

flagship products attracted collectors young and old while speciality releases broadened the appeal for subsets of the hobby audience. Topps even began tying directly into current events through timed releases of special cards highlighting key accomplishments during the season. For example, they produced smaller sets focusing specifically on Pete Alonso’s rookie home run record breaking campaign and cards providing postseason statistical updates during the playoffs and World Series.

Upper Deck also maintained a baseball card presence but Topps remained the 800-pound gorilla of the baseball card industry. Their immense catalog of products continued to cater to collectors at all levels in 2019 while keeping the hobby thriving. From value priced Series 1 & 2 wax packs readily found at local stores to high-end memorabilia cards and 1/1 autos from sets like Transcendent and Tribute only obtainable through instant riches Style hits in boxes costing hundreds, Topps had something for everyone.

Several key subsets and insert sets gained traction within the Topps 2019 offerings as well. The Awards and Credentials subset placed veteran star performers in elegant framed cards with embossed logos noting career milestones. Home Run Challenge put players in a photo finish tracking a longball with stats noting their season slugging percentages. Color Blast parallels splashed vibrant hues across the usual black and white designs. Gallery of Greats paid tribute to past legends with nostalgic photo selections. And Sepia parallel inserts gave a historic feel to current start through an aged brown toning effect. Whether collecting setchecklists or chasing favorite players, Topps provided acclaimed presentation.

While the flagship products anchored the release schedule as usual, Topps unafraid to take chances with innovative ideas, Sometimes they succeeded wonderfully and some less so. But willingness to try new concepts ensured the hobby avoided growing stale by catering only to nostalgic sensibilities. The high number of insert sets tied directly into that goal by providing rotating chase cards beyond the base rosters to maintain interest cycle to cycle. And through it all, Topps 2019 baseball managed to honor history while keeping an eye focused on the future by recognizing today’s emerging young stars who will drive the hobby for years to come. With dedication to their core values and adaptation to modern collector preferences, Topps secured another successful year stewarding America’s favorite sport to card collectors everywhere. Whether building full sets or seeking their PC, Topps 2019 had something for all.

In summary, Topps produced another outstanding array of baseball cards in 2019 serving collectors through traditional and specialty releases. While maintaining flagship products as their foundation, new insert sets and timely mini-releases kept the hobby fresh. Topps ensured legends of the past were remembered while also shining a light on stars of the present and future. With something for every budget level and stage of collecting, their 2019 offerings exemplified why Topps remains the leader in the baseball card industry after decades of delivering the sport to fans worldwide in cardboard form. Whether completing rainbow parallels, unearthing rare gems, or simply enjoying the presentation of America’s pastime, Topps 2019 baseball cards provided enjoyment for hobbyists across generations.