Tag Archives: 2021

2021 BOWMAN CHROME BASEBALL BEST CARDS

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The 2021 Bowman Chrome baseball release offered hobby box collectors the opportunity to pull a range of coveted rookie cards and prospects. While Bowman Chrome is Bowman’s flagship high-end product, the 2021 release did not feature the star power of recent years. There were still several exciting rookies and prospects to chase.

One of the top rookies in the 2021 Bowman Chrome set was Cardinals first baseman/outfielder Brendan Donovan. Donovan made his MLB debut in 2022 and showed potential with a .333 average in 45 games. While he likely profiles better as a utility player, Donovan has the bat to be a regular if he can develop more power. His prized Chrome rookie cards from 2021 help start many collector’s PC’s.

Another rookie shining in the 2021 Bowman Chrome release was Marlins starting pitcher Max Meyer. The third overall pick in the 2020 draft, Meyer has top-of-the-rotation stuff with a mid-90s fastball and plus slider. He made his MLB debut in 2022 and showed why he’s such a highly-regarded prospect. Meyer’s Bowman Chrome rookie cards, which captured his exciting potential, priced out around $50-75 each during the baseball season.

Future Cubs star Christopher Morel had one of the best rookie cards from the 2021 Bowman Chrome product. Morel came out of nowhere to make the Cubs roster in 2022 and provided a spark at the plate and in the field. He displayed plus-plus speed and adequate power that makes him a potential top-of-the-order threat. Morel’s impressive MLB debut led to his Bowman Chrome rookie card skyrocketing in value, with the prized paper version pricing above $150-200 each online.

Another Cardinals prospect with a prized 2021 Bowman Chrome rookie was outfielder Alec Burleson. While Burleson didn’t debut in the majors in 2022, he showed intriguing all-around skills in the minors. Burleson has a promising lefty bat with some thunder and good defensive skills in the outfield. His stock rose in 2022, and collectors saw his Bowman Chrome rookie as a card to pick up before a potential call-up. Burleson rookies held a $30-50 average price point.

One of the marquee pitching prospects featured in 2021 Bowman Chrome was Diamondbacks left-hander Drew Romo. Coming out of the competitive California prep ranks, Romo has a projectable 6-foot-4 frame and three potential plus pitches in his mid-90s fastball, curveball, and changeup. He moved quickly through the minors in 2022 and could debut in the majors next season. Romo’s Bowman Chrome rookie captured the promise of a potential future ace and retailed for $50-75 most of the year.

White Sox prospect Colson Montgomery provided another coveted 2021 Bowman Chrome rookie. The 21st overall pick in 2021 out of high school in Illinois, Montgomery has all the tools to stick at shortstop while offering above-average raw power from the left side. He started to hit for more contact in 2022 which bodes well for his future. Montgomery rookies held steady values of $50-75 among collectors chasing emerging prospects.

Cardinals catching prospect Ivan Herrera produced one of the more sought-after rookie cards in 2021 Bowman Chrome. A strong defender with solid offensive instincts, Herrera has the skills to be an above-average regular catcher if his bat comes around more. He reached Triple-A in 2022 and could debut next season. The Herrera Bowman Chrome rookie priced between $50-100 throughout the year among catching prospect collectors.

Diamondbacks outfield prospect Druw Jones proved one of the biggest ‘hits’ of the entire 2021 Bowman Chrome product. The son of former MLB star Andruw Jones, Druw possesses five-tool potential and was taken second overall in the 2021 draft. He displayed next-level athletic tools in his pro debut season. While still many years away, Jones’ first Bowman Chrome rookie captivated collectors and retailed over $100 each, marking him as the set’s top rookie card chase.

While the 2021 MLB rookie class did not boast a true superstar, Bowman Chrome still featured emerging prospects capturing the baseball community’s attention. For collectors chasing the stars of tomorrow before they arrive in the majors, these select rookies from the release held long-term value and upside. The 2021 Bowman Chrome set served its purpose by introducing the earliest cardboard for some exciting new names.

BEST 2021 PRIZM BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2021 Prizm Baseball set was highly anticipated by collectors due to 2020 being a down year for the hobby and Prizm being one of the premier brands in the trading card industry. Panini released the 2021 Prizm Baseball set in October 2021 with parallels, short prints, autographs, and rookie cards of top prospects that made certain cards very desirable. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the best 2021 Prizm Baseball cards to collect.

One of the most sought-after rookie cards in the 2021 Prizm Baseball set is Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco. Franco is considered a true five-tool player and phenom who many experts believe will become one of the faces of baseball. His prizm base rookie card can be found for around $30-40 raw but graded gem mint 10 copies have sold for over $500. Franco also has several valuable parallels like the Green /99, Orange /25, and 1/1 Black Prizm that command premium prices. Any Wander Franco card is a great long-term investment for collectors.

Another top rookie to target is Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez. While he missed time in 2021 due to injury, Rodriguez displayed five-tool talent when healthy and has a very high ceiling. His base prizm rookie card sells for around $15-20 raw but higher-end parallels like Green /99 and Orange /25 can fetch over $100 in gem mint condition. Rodriguez is expected to be a star for the Mariners and his cards hold great value.

Two other noteworthy rookies from the 2021 Prizm Baseball set are Detroit Tigers outfielder Riley Greene and Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Nate Pearson. Greene was a top overall draft pick and has a smooth left-handed swing that is translating well so far in the minors. His base prizm rookie goes for around $10-15 but parallels are more scarce. Pearson has electrifying stuff but injuries have slowed his progress – if he can stay healthy his cards like the Green /99 parallel have breakout potential.

In terms of star veterans, any Mike Trout card is a solid investment but his 2021 Prizm base card sells in the $15-20 range. Higher-end parallels like the Green /99 and Orange /25 can fetch $50-100. Trout remains the best player in baseball when on the field and his brand is unmatched, making him a sound long-term collectible.

Another top veteran to consider is Los Angeles Dodgers star Mookie Betts. Betts is in his prime and helped lead LA to a World Series title in 2020. His base 2021 Prizm card sells for around $10-15 but parallels have more upside if Betts continues dominating. The Green /99 and Orange /25 parallels in particular hold nice value.

For star rookies, prospects, and veterans, short prints (SP) and autographs add tremendous value. The Wander Franco SP sells for $50-75 raw while his autographed cards fetch $300-500 depending on parallel. SPs of Rodriguez, Greene, Pearson and other top prospects also command a premium. Autographs of Trout, Betts and other stars can sell for hundreds to over $1000 for 1/1 variations. These rarer inserts make for great longshot speculations.

When collecting the 2021 Prizm Baseball set, the best cards to target are the rookies of Wander Franco, Julio Rodriguez, and Riley Greene. Mike Trout and Mookie Betts veteran base cards are also solid. But the highest upside lies in parallels, short prints, and autographs of top stars and prospects. With the hobby booming, graded gem mint 10 examples of the best 2021 Prizm rookies and parallels hold immense long-term value. This set provides several investment opportunities for savvy collectors.

TOPPS BIG LEAGUE BASEBALL 2021 BEST CARDS

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The 2021 Topps Big League baseball card set was another highly anticipated release from the iconic sports card manufacturer. With its retro design paying homage to cards from the 1970s and 80s, Topps Big League has developed a cult following among collectors seeking a throwback experience with a modern twist.

The 2021 set featured 350 base cards showing current Major League players, with parallel and insert sets adding to the excitement. As with every year, collectors feverishly sorted through packs and boxes hoping to find the standout rookie cards and biggest stars of the season. Several months after its initial release, here’s a look at some of the cards that have emerged as the most popular and valuable from Topps Big League 2021.

Wander Franco Base card

He hadn’t played a single game in the majors when the 2021 season started, but Rays top prospect Wander Franco was already one of the most hyped rookie cards in the set. #MLBTheShow players were clamoring to add his digital card to their lineup long before he got his call up. Franco lived up to the billing by tearing the cover off the ball in his debut, and his base Topps Big League rookie emerged as one of the clear prizes of the set. Franco mania has collectors scooping up this affordable card at a rapid clip. Expect it to gain value as the young star’s dominance continues.

Ronald Acuña Jr. Diamond Anniversary Parallel #/50

Superstar Braves outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. was coming off an injury-shortened 2020 season, but remained one of the most dynamic players in baseball. His base Topps Big League card was a must-have, but the true chase card was his Diamond Anniversary parallel limited to just 50 copies. Featuring Acuña’s fearsome profile in sparkling diamond-encrusted parallels, this rare pull instantly became the white whale that serious collectors lusted after. Even raw non-graded copies have eclipsed $1,000 on the secondary market. Graded gems in the BGS/PSA 9-10 range could fetch five figures when they surface.

Shane Bieber Photo Variation

Cleveland pitcher Shane Bieber missed significant time in 2021 due to injury after winning the 2020 AL Cy Young. But he remained one of the game’s best hurlers when on the mound, making his cards highly sought after. The Photo Variation parallel of Bieber’s Big League base card stood out for featuring an incredible action shot of him in mid-delivery. With its vibrant colors and photo subject perfectly framed, this visual standout became the talk of online breakers and attracted plenty of attention from set collectors. Even copy prices in the $50-100 range proved no object for fans pursuing this stunner.

All-Star Rainbow Foil Parallel Inserts

A new parallel offering in Big League 2021 paid homage to All-Star Game heroes of the past and present. For each league, Topps issued rainbow foil parallel insert cards highlighting five star players. Collectors raced to complete the rainbow foil subsets featuring AL stars like Shohei Ohtani and NL greats including Fernando Tatis Jr. The insert designs popped with their iridescent treatment. While not rare pull rates, these are always crowd pleasers that hold value due to dual theme/player collector demand. The complete ten card rainbow foil All-Star sets command solid four-figure prices when assembled.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. / Fernando Tatis Jr. Big Papi/Jeter subset

Topps Big League saluted iconic players of yesteryear with parallel insert subsets starring current stars in the uniforms and poses of legends who came before. Perhaps none captured attention more than the cards pairing Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Fernando Tatis Jr. with their Hall of Fame fathers. Vlad Jr. looked regal rocking the Red Sox threads and handlebar mustache of his father Big Papi. Likewise, Tatis Jr. electrified in the pinstripes and classic Jeter stance of his own legendary dad. Even with relatively common pull rates, these heartfelt tributes resonated with collectors and still trade regularly for $50-100 per card or more.

Debut Autograph Parallel Rookies

Each year, Topps Big League offers rookie collectors a chance to snag the debut autographed cards of baseball’s new generation. In 2021 this included prized prospects like Rays catcher Randy Arozarena and Marlins starter Trevor Rogers. The low serial parallels /25 or less added to the exclusivity. While boxer-style relic cards held appeal, it was the on-card autographs that generated the most buzz. Savvy collectors cracked value boxes hunting the next star performer to sign his first Topps card. Examples like Arozarena’s autograph patch parallel /5 could easily bring thousands on resale markets.

Mike Trout Superfractor Parallel 1/1

With the exception of short print parallels, no card is considered more rare than the coveted 1/1 superfractor. In Big League 2021, that designation went to none other than the game’s best player, Mike Trout. The electric teal color popped as Trout’s smiling portrait was overlaid with a dramatic fractured design. This true one-of-a-kind pulled collective gasps from any collector audience upon reveal. Its appeal seemed cemented as the prized superfractor of any Angels fan collection. While still in private hands last seen, rumors place its current market value near or exceeding five figures – a true trophy piece for serious Trout devotees.

In summary, Topps Big League 2021 offered today’s fans a chance to collect the stars and rookies of tomorrow in a retro-inspired setting. From Franco to Acuña to the 1/1 Trout super, the biggest hits commanded major attention. But the set also gave budget-minded collectors affordable access to emerging talents. With strong continuing demand across multiple collecting demographics, these highlighted Big League cards from 2021 should maintain their status as highlights for years to come.

VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS 2021

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The baseball card market experienced incredible growth in 2021 as interest in the hobby skyrocketed. Fueled by the pandemic and nostalgia, collectors chased rare vintage cards as well as the latest rookie stars. As with any collecting space, there were certain cards that stood far above the rest in terms of desirability and value.

One of the most noteworthy rarities to emerge in 2021 auction sales was a 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle in pristine gem mint condition. It shattered records when it sold for $5.2 million, making it not only the highest price ever paid for a baseball card but for any trading card in history. What made this Mantle rookie so special was its centering, sharp corners and color not typical for 70-year-old cardboard. It demonstrated unwavering collector confidence in the condition-sensitive vintage cards.

Other 1950s rookie greats also commanded top dollar, led by a Mike Trout 2009 Bowman Chrome Draft Superfractor RC that brought in $3.93 million. Widely considered the rarest Trout card in existence, its gold parallel printing plates designating it as one of one made it the most coveted angle on the current face of baseball. A near-perfect grade certainly added to its rarity and popularity with those hunting unicorns in their collections.

More reasonably priced on the vintage front were high-grade examples of 1957 Topps Mickey Mantle (#311), with several PSA/BGS 9 examples trading in the mid-six figure range. Still showcasing perhaps the game’s most recognizable photo, it remained an attainable cornerstone for many vintage collections. Similarly, a 1957 Topps Ted Williams (#76) in PSA/BGS 8.5 condition brought $240,000 in an auction. Still pricey, but proof that condition mattered more than any singular flaw for 50+ year old cardboard.

2021 also witnessed new all-time high prices for several modern stars as their careers began entering Hall of Fame territory. An ultra-rare PSA GEM MT 10 1986 Fleer Jordan RC sold for $780,000 at Goldin Auctions, showcasing sustained demand for scarce high-end variants of arguably the most iconic basketball card ever produced. A similar story unfolded for 1998 Bowman Chrome Refractors of Ken Griffey Jr., which continued appreciating into six figures for pristine MT 10 specimens despite the player’s retirement over a decade ago.

Rookie cards also reached rarified air, such as a Logan White 2018 Topps Chrome Autograph Orange Refractor RC selling for $180,000. With the prized prospect playing well in Triple-A and eyeing a 2022 MLB debut, savvy investors recognized his potential and overwhelming scarcity compelled a massive premium for the finest known examples. Likewise, a Wander Franco 2020 Bowman Chrome Green Refractor Superfractor RC hit $415,000 as the touted Tampa Bay phenom began remaking the shortstop position in just his first full season.

But some cards weren’t necessarily rare so much as symbolic of larger player arcs that captured collector imagination. A 2003 Topps Finest Refractor Livan Hernandez RC traded hands multiple times last year, each new ceiling motivated by the pitcher’s surprise World Series co-MVP honors that cemented him as a folk hero decades after his debut. Meanwhile, a 2007 Topps Update Clayton Kershaw Orange Refractor PSA 10 didn’t break record, but its mid five-figure price hinted that collectibles embedded in deep playoff runs gain intrigue well after the fact.

Not all high-flying cards hailed from the very tippy top of the hobby either. Mid-range modern rookie parallels or autographs of emerging talents moved briskly as fans looked to speculate on promising careers in real-time. While nowhere near the rarities, cards like 2020 Topps Chrome Silver Pack Rookies of Luis Robert or Cristian Pache satisfied that niche. Even base rookies saw spikes simply due to increasing fan interest, such as Fernando Tatis Jr.’s Topps tattoo parallel routinely bringing over $500 after his third full season cemented him as a generational talent still entering his prime.

The mantra of “buy the prospect, sell the star” also came into play for 2021, as breakout campaigns sparked premium price jumps. Players like Shane Bieber, Anthony Rendon, and Juan Soto extended momentum from 2020 with All-Star or MVP-caliber performances. Their lowest serial # parallels consequently rose on news of multi-year contract extensions indicating sustained success. A similar but more heightened scenario unfolded for rookie phenoms such as Jonathan India and Randy Arozarena, as collectibles of their cup of coffee debut seasons exploded after All-Star nods and postseason heroics.

Perhaps most remarkable overall was how liquid and robust the market stayed throughout 2021 regardless of player, brand or category. While headline cards grabbed attention, depth developed across the board for iconic vintage stars, modern Hall of Famers, and prospects still making their way. Slabs in the $50-1000 range found new homes consistently on auction and resale platforms. Even commons and parallels endured enthusiasm from new collectors dipping toes in the water or completing sets from childhood. In a tumultuous year, baseball cards served as a stable and engaging investment that connected generations through memories, stats and cardboard. 2022 looks to continue building on such momentum as interest expands internationally and demographically within the collecting community.

In summary, 2021 demonstrated the baseball card market’s phenomenal resilience and growth potential despite economic uncertainty. Collectors proved willing to shatter records chasing the rarest vintage and contemporary stars as nostalgia and speculation merged. While rarities topped headlines, even mid-tier modern and vintage items saw rising demand. With interest continuing to broaden, 2022 should deliver another boon for the hobby from prospects to present day heroes across all price points. Condition, desirability and career milestones clearly remain biggest drivers of long term value.

2021 HERITAGE BASEBALL CARDS

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2021 marked the sixth year of release for Topps Heritage, the retro-styled baseball card set that pays homage to baseball cards from the 1950s and 1960s. The 2021 Heritage collection continued the tradition of featuring designs reminiscent of those eras while also including current Major League players.

Some key aspects that defined the 2021 Topps Heritage release included focusing on designs from the 1959 and 1961 Topps sets, including parallel sets with designs from 1955 and 1967, increased production/print runs compared to past years, and continued strong demand/interest from collectors. The 2021 Heritage collection was another highly regarded modern issue that was very popular with both newer collectors seeking affordable vintage-style cards as well as established collectors pursuing specific parallels and more valuable rookies/prospect cards.

With the 1959 and 1961 Topps designs serving as the base for the main set, collectors were treated to familiar layouts featuring team names across the top along with action photos of players on solid color backgrounds. The design aesthetic perfectly captured the look and feel of baseball cards from those classic decades. Updates were made with smaller borders around photos, inclusion of current MLB logos/team icons, and reversed negative images on many cards to add some modern flair.

Beyond the core set designs, several notable parallel sets were also featured. The Flagship parallel took the 1959 design but included red and blue color tints. The ’55 Parallels evoked that seminal Topps design era with thinner borders and a horizontal card layout. Lastly, the popular Green parallel from 2020 returned with the 1967 Topps motif highlighted by team-colored photo borders and backgrounds. Numbered parallel inserts in the Heritage product had become a fan favorite way to obtain rarer designs and short prints in the collectible sets.

While past Heritage releases averaged around 300 total cards between the base set and inserts/parallels, the 2021 checklist expanded significantly to 420 total cards. This provided more opportunities to collect variations of current stars as well as up-and-coming prospects. Plus, higher production levels meant parallels were printed in larger quantities to satisfy increasing consumer demand. More available Heritage cards at reasonable prices led to strong initial sales and follow-up interest throughout the year.

Among the cards that generated the most collector buzz were base rookies/prospects of Wander Franco, Adley Rutschman, and Bobby Witt Jr, who were considered the top young talents in baseball at the time. Their 1959 and 1961 designs were particularly coveted, routinely selling out and bringing premium prices on the resale market. Veterans with vintage aesthetic photos like Shohei Ohtani also proved popular. Meanwhile, inserts featuring retired legends appealed to nostalgic collectors wanting connections to baseball history.

Overall, 2021 Topps Heritage built upon the fun, nostalgic formula that made the brand so popular since its debut. Continued expansion, increased availability, and capturing current players elevated the set in the hobby. The vintage visual homages remained paramount to collectors eagerly seeking affordable throwbacks. As long as Topps Heritage stays true to paying tribute to classic baseball card designs of the past through a modern lens, the line projects to remain one of the most widespread and well-received annual releases for years to come. After a successful 2021 edition, anticipation was high for what new retro designs and parallels Topps would unveil next for collectors to enjoy.

2021 BOWMAN HERITAGE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2021 Bowman Heritage baseball card set was released on April 28th, 2021 by Topps and distributed through hobby shops, mass retailers, and online vendors. The set retains the classic retro design aesthetic that made the original Bowman Heritage cards from the 1980s and 1990s so popular with collectors. Featuring today’s MLB stars in a throwback uniform template, the Heritage brand has become a fixture of the annual baseball card landscape.

The 2021 Bowman Heritage set contains 234 base cards total with notable rookies such as Jarred Kelenic, Evan White, and Alec Bohm. The checklist includes prospects, minor leaguers, and current MLB players with a wide range of uniforms and team affiliations represented. Some of the unique uniform designs borrowed from the past include powder blue Angels jerseys, solid red Cubs jerseys, and solid road gray uniforms emulating the original 1953 Topps design. Fronts of the cards utilize the timeless Heritage template of a headshot photo with team name arched at the top in team font/colors.

Retail packs and boxes contain primarily base cards but also include short print parallels and insert cards scattered throughout. The main parallel variations for 2021 Bowman Heritage included Silver Pack parallels (1:24 packs), Gold Foil parallels (1:72 packs), and Black Foil parallels (1:288 packs). Other insert sets included Heritage Minors Future Stars (5 cards), and Heritage Checklist (1 card). Hobby boxes and packs offered the best odds at pulling these chase cards due to higher overall print runs compared to mass market releases.

Secondary market demand for 2021 Bowman Heritage was very strong right out of the gate due to the always popular design, solid rookie class, and many MLB stars included in the set. The low print runs on insert cards like the Gold Foil and Black Foil parallels led to premium pricing per card online. Top rookies like Kelenic and Bohm received significant hype entering the season which translated to strong early eBay sales totals. Meanwhile stars like Vlad Guerrero Jr., Fernando Tatis Jr., and Juan Soto carried high price tags due to their established fanbases.

Throughout the 2021 MLB season, rookie performance and MLB successes or struggles impacted the longterm card values within the Heritage checklist. As Kelenic, Bohm and others impressed in the majors, their base rookie cards climbed above initial print run estimates. Conversely, prospects who struggled saw their prices stabilize or decline from launch hype levels. Parallel cards and short prints held steady demand regardless of on-field play due to their inherent rarity and collector appeal within the set design. By late 2021, complete base sets were commanding over $200 on the secondary market due to dwindling supply and enduring collector interest in the Heritage brand.

Looking ahead, the future remains bright for 2021 Bowman Heritage cards to retain strong collector demand patterns. As the included rookie class establishes itself further in MLB, individual standouts could realize six figure PSA 10 prices down the road. Meanwhile vintage-inspired designs will always have a following among nostalgic collectors. Condition sensitive parallels hold value due to their ultra-low populations remaining intact over time. Overall this Heritage set release proved itself as a worthwhile long term basketball in addition to an exciting new card release to chase in real-time during the 2021 baseball season. Whether holding, trading, or flipping, the 2021 Bowman Heritage cards established a solid foundation to create future gains for collectors and investors alike.

BEST 2021 PANINI DRAFT PICKS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2021 Panini Draft Picks baseball card set featured prospects selected in the 2020 MLB Draft. While some of these players have yet to make their professional debuts, the set highlights many of the top talents that teams hoped could one day contribute at the major league level. With the unpredictability of player development, not every name will pan out as expected. Here are some of the best rookie cards from the 2021 Panini Draft Picks set that could prove to be valuable long-term holdings based on the prospects’ draft pedigree and skill set.

Spencer Torkelson – Detroit Tigers (1st Overall Pick): As the top selection in the 2020 draft, Torkelson was virtually a consensus choice as the best college hitter available. Playing for Arizona State, he slashed .337/.443/.729 with 27 home runs as a junior to cement his status as the top draft-eligible player. Torkelson has all the tools to be a perennial All-Star, with his ability to hit for both power and average his carrying tool. His card is the most coveted from the set as he is poised to be the future cornerstone of the Tigers’ lineup.

Austin Martin – Toronto Blue Jays (5th Overall Pick): Many had Martin rated as the best all-around player in the entire 2020 draft class. He put up incredible stats as a junior at Vanderbilt, hitting .377 with a .486 on-base percentage while providing plus defense up the middle. Martin’s 5-tool ability and high baseball IQ give him All-Star upside. He has the potential to be a franchise cornerstone for the Blue Jays once he reaches the majors.

Nick Gonzales – Pittsburgh Pirates (7th Overall Pick): Gonzales did nothing but produce during his three years at New Mexico State, culminating in a video game-like 2020 season where he slashed .448/.599/.908 with 15 home runs in just 23 games. He has one of the best pure bats in the 2020 draft and showed no weakness in his collegiate performance. Gonzales could be an impact middle of the order hitter if he continues developing as expected.

Robert Hassell III – San Diego Padres (8th Overall Pick): As one of the top high school bats in the 2020 class, Hassell showed an advanced approach at the plate with impressive raw power potential. He has the tools to develop into a true five-tool player at the top of the Padres’ order for years to come. Hassell’s combination of youth, upside, and landing spot with a perennial contender make him an intriguing long-term hold.

Emerson Hancock – Seattle Mariners (6th Overall Pick): The top college pitching prospect available in 2020, Hancock dominated as the Friday night starter at Georgia. He possesses three plus pitches with command of all his offerings. His combination of stuff and polish out of the draft give him a high floor. As one of the headliners of the pitching class, Hancock was a great selection for the Mariners who need impact arms. He could develop into a future #2 starter.

Garrett Mitchell – Milwaukee Brewers (20th Overall Pick): Mitchell turned heads with his five-tool skill set as an outfielder at UCLA. He has the speed, power, and defensive abilities to stay in center field long-term. While he may not have the name recognition of some other high picks, Mitchell is a very safe bet to develop into a regular at the major league level. His combination of tools and high-floor profile make him a solid long-term prospect pick.

Zac Veen – Colorado Rockies (9th Overall Pick): As one of the top prep bats on the board, Veen showed impressive raw power from the left side to go along with a promising hit tool. He has the athleticism and instincts to stick in center field long-term. Veen’s combination of power, speed, and upside made him a great selection for the Rockies, who need impact position players in their system. He has the potential to be a cornerstone if development goes according to plan.

Ed Howard – Chicago Cubs (16th Overall Pick): The Cubs landed one of the top high school shortstop talents in Howard with their first round selection. He has the defensive skills and athleticism to stick at a premium position. Offensively, Howard has the chance to be an impact hitter as well with his raw power and bat speed from the right side. His combination of tools and landing spot with a well-regarded development organization like the Cubs gives him a high ceiling.

Tyler Soderstrom – Oakland Athletics (26th Overall Pick): As one of the top catching prospects in the 2020 class, Soderstrom showed impressive offensive abilities from the left side in high school. He has the chance to be an impact hitter from a premium defensive position. Landing with a shrewd organization like the A’s bodes well for his long-term development. Soderstrom has the upside of a future All-Star caliber catcher.

Cade Cavalli – Cincinnati Reds (22nd Overall Pick): The Reds landed one of the top arms on the board in Cavalli, who dominated as the Friday starter at Oklahoma. He possesses a plus fastball and slider with the makings of at least three quality pitches. Cavalli has the ceiling of a future #2/#3 starter if he continues refining his command. His combination of stuff and landing with a team that develops arms well makes him a great long-term pitching prospect.

Bryson Stott – Philadelphia Phillies (14th Overall Pick): Stott was the top college hitter still available when the Phillies selected him in the middle of the first round. He did nothing but produce offensively and defensively at shortstop for UNLV. Stott has a polished bat from the left side with the chance to hit for both power and average. His high floor profile and landing with a contender gives him a good chance to develop into an everyday player.

While prospect development is unpredictable, the 2020 draft class featured many players with the upside to be franchise cornerstones. The top names selected like Torkelson, Martin, and Gonzales have the highest ceilings. But prospects throughout the first round like Mitchell, Veen, Howard and more provide opportunities for long-term value. For those betting on upside and landing spots, cards from the 2021 Panini Draft Picks baseball set could prove to be worthwhile investments down the road.

CINCINNATI REDS BASEBALL CARDS 2021

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The 2021 Cincinnati Reds baseball card season featured many exciting rookie cards and veterans from a franchise looking to return to the playoffs. While the Reds fell short of postseason play, they fielded a competitive team led by stars Joey Votto, Nick Castellanos, and Luis Castillo. Their cards from 2021 provide a snapshot of that year’s team and a look at some promising young players just beginning their MLB careers.

The Reds’ veteran first baseman Joey Votto continued his Hall of Fame caliber career in 2021. Though in his mid-30s, Votto showed he still had plenty left in the tank, batting .266 with 36 home runs and 99 RBIs. His 2021 Topps base card captured him in the familiar Reds uniform, showcasing his trademark batting stance from the left side. As one of the best hitters of his generation, Votto cards remain highly collectible for Reds fans and baseball card enthusiasts alike. With over 300 career home runs already, Votto has a chance to continue climbing the all-time leaderboards in the next few seasons.

Another Reds star, Nick Castellanos, had a breakout season in Cincinnati in 2021 after signing as a free agent. Castellanos smashed 34 home runs and led the NL with a .309 batting average in his first year with the Reds. His impressive power and hitting numbers made him a force in the middle of the Reds’ lineup. Castellanos’ 2021 Topps base card shows him rounding the bases, exemplifying the impact he made in his debut Reds campaign. As Castellanos continues producing at an All-Star level, his 2021 Reds cards should hold value in the years to come.

On the pitching side, Luis Castillo remained the Reds’ ace in 2021. Though he saw a slight dip from his 2019 All-Star season, Castillo still posted respectable numbers of 3.98 ERA and 155 strikeouts over 31 starts. His smooth delivery and electric stuff made him a threat on the mound every fifth day. Castillo’s 2021 Topps base card captures him mid-windup, showcasing his fluid overhand motion. As one of the NL’s best young right-handed starters, Castillo’s long-term upside makes his 2021 cards a solid investment.

Among the many promising Reds rookies in 2021 were second baseman Jonathan India and pitcher Hunter Greene. India burst onto the scene by batting .269 with 21 home runs and 69 RBIs, winning NL Rookie of the Year honors. His impressive power from the second base position was a revelation. India’s 2021 Topps Chrome rookie card /499 is one of the prized rookie cards from that year’s crop, given his immediate big league success. Meanwhile, flamethrower Hunter Greene made his MLB debut in 2022 after missing 2021 recovering from Tommy John surgery. But collectors could still find his prized Topps Chrome rookie card from 2021, showing promise for what was to come from the 100+ MPH fireballer. With India establishing himself and Greene’s upside, their rookie cards hold great long-term value.

While the Reds may not have made the playoffs, their 2021 season still produced cards from impact veterans like Votto and Castellanos, as well as rookie gems in India and Greene. Even with the team in transition, loyal Reds fans can find cards from 2021 reminding them of individual successes from that year’s squad. With a strong farm system and young core emerging, the Reds look poised to return to contention in the coming years. And their 2021 baseball cards may end up being the foundation for rebuilding collectors’ Cincinnati teams.

2021 TOPPS HERITAGE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2021 Topps Heritage Baseball card set is a flagship retro redesign release from Topps that pays homage to the design style of baseball cards from the late 1960s. As with each year’s Heritage set, the 2021 version features reproductions of some of the most iconic card designs from Topps’ past to celebrate the history and tradition of the baseball card collecting hobby.

With its rich nostalgic design and focus on classic players and teams, the 2021 Topps Heritage set has proven to be highly popular with collectors both young and old. The set contains a total of 396 cards that bring back the classic look and feel of cards from 1968 Topps and earlier. Some key details that help define the Heritage aesthetic include a thicker cardstock with smooth edges reminiscent of the original cardboard used in the 1960s, along with simple bold fonts and logos that have stood the test of time.

For the 2021 edition, Topps reproduction teams carefully studied vintage samples to get the color schemes, borders, layouts and even things like the thickness and texture of the cardboard stock just right to satisfy die-hard collectors. The end result is a set that truly transports fans back to a bygone era. When combined with compelling modern photography of today’s stars and detailed statistical archives on retired legends, Heritage has become a cherished annual tradition for baseball card enthusiasts.

In addition to standard base cards showcasing each team’s roster, the 2021 Topps Heritage set also includes various parallels, inserts and autographs to chase. The most coveted among these are usually the limited short prints that are inserted randomly in packs and boxes at very low odds. This year’s Short Prints featured designs inspired by 1968 Topps cards of Hall of Famers like Hank Aaron and Roberto Clemente. Other popular inserts followed nostalgic motifs like “Diamond Kings” parallels highlighting stars both past and present.

Rookie cards tend to be the most highly sought-after prospect cards in any Heritage set due to both the retro design treatment and importance of a player’s debut. Some of the top rookie stands in 2021 Topps Heritage included Wander Franco of the Tampa Bay Rays, Andrew Vaughn of the Chicago White Sox, and Jarred Kelenic of the Seattle Mariners. With Franco and Kelenic in particular projected to be future superstars, their Heritage rookies were hot commodities upon the set’s release.

Serial numbered parallels provide another avenue for collectors to chase rarer and more valuable versions of core cards. For 2021, these included Silver Pack parallels /250, Gold Pack parallels /50, and the ultra-exclusive Platinum Pack parallels limited to just /10 copies. Autograph cards signed by today’s biggest names naturally top the list as the true crown jewels within any Heritage product, typically inserting around 1 per box on average. Other sought-after autograph veterans from previous years have also been popular additions to the set through memorabilia cards and autographs offered in hobby boxes.

Part of what makes Topps Heritage such a unique and historically significant release is that it serves not just as a collector product but also as an important annual archive of the league. With each new year’s set building upon the last, the Heritage collection as a whole has grown to become a museum-quality retrospective of Major League Baseball from the 1960s forward. Casual fans and statistic lovers enjoy perusing the pages to reminisce about past eras, while serious vintage enthusiasts analyze subtle design nuances to authenticate their prized possessions. Through thoughtful recreations and new additions, Topps continues advancing this hallowed tradition with each successive Heritage set.

As baseball’s longest-running card partner, Topps is uniquely positioned having worked with MLB and the Players Association for decades to bring this level of authenticity and care to Heritage. Looking ahead, as long as the hobby continues to thrive on nostalgia and connection to history, Topps Heritage figures to remain a cornerstone release that transports a whole new generation to the “greatest era” many fans still carry close to their hearts. Its retro aesthetic ensures the legacy established by early Topps designs long ago will live on for collectors of both past and future.

2021 BASEBALL ROOKIE CARDS TO LOOK FOR

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The 2021 MLB season saw several highly touted prospects make their debuts and start to prove themselves at the highest level of play. While it’s still early in their careers, these rookies showed a lot of promise and their rookie cards have already started to gain value amongst collectors. Let’s take a look at some of the top rookie cards from 2021 that collectors should keep an eye on in the coming years.

One of the most hype rookies of 2021 was Wander Franco of the Tampa Bay Rays. Considered a true five-tool superstar, Franco stunned baseball with a .288 batting average, 7 home runs, and 39 RBI in just 70 games in his debut season. The shortstop position is one with few elite options, making Franco’s skills that much more valuable. His Topps Chrome Sapphire Prizm Orange refractors and Topps Finest Sapphire parallels seem to be gaining the most traction currently. Given Franco’s unlimited potential and the talent level he showed as a 20-year old, his cards could become some of the most valuable of this generation if he continues progressing.

Another highly touted rookie who impressed was Rangers outfielder Adolis Garcia. The 28-year old Cuban defector broke out in a huge way, slashing .243/.301/.466 with 31 home runs and 90 RBI. That power output led all MLB rookies and helped spark the Rangers’ unexpected playoff push. Topps Chrome Sapphire Prizm Reds and Bowman Platinum Autographs of Garcia have seen solid early gains in value. With a few more productive seasons, Garcia could develop into a real fan favorite in Texas which would undoubtedly help the appeal of his rookie cards long term.

In Arizona, Wyatt Mathisen didn’t see extended playing time but made the most of his brief cup of coffee. In just 33 at-bats, Mathisen blasted 4 home runs and showed some serious pop from both sides of the plate. His Bowman Chrome Sapphire Prizm Blues parallel and Topps Finest Fire parallel refractors seem primed to take off if he gets more playing time to prove himself in 2022. Mathisen will be one to watch, especially for Diamondbacks fans collecting players from their system.

The San Diego Padres saw top prospects like MacKenzie Gore, Ryan Weathers, and Jake Cronenworth graduate to the big leagues, leaving a new crop of farmhands to follow. One of the most interesting is C.J. Abrams, a shortstop who was called up late in the year. In 58 at-bats with the Padres, he showed solid power and speed with a .232 average, 3 HRs and stolen base. Abrams’ Bowman Chrome Sapphire Prizm Orange parallels and Topps Finest Sapphire parallels are really heating up online. He has the skills to cement himself as San Diego’s shortstop of the future within the next couple seasons and could become one of the premier young stars in baseball if it all clicks.

The Boston Red Sox touted top prospects Triston Casas and Jarren Duran got their first extended tastes of MLB action in 2021. Of the two, Casas in particular drew rave reviews for his hitting prowess and defensive abilities at first base. In 46 games, he slashed .241/.311/.356 with 3 homers and 13 RBI. His 2021 Silver Pack Perspectives Autograph and Topps Fire parallel refractors seem to be some of the more sought after releases showing up online recently. Duran dazzled with his speed, swiping 20 bases in just 98 games, and could develop into the leadoff man Boston needs if he refines his approach. Both have promising futures and talented rosters around them, putting their rookies cards in a good position to gain long term value for collectors.

Switching to the American League East, the Tampa Bay Rays called up shortstop Vidal Brujan for 35 games late in the year. Brujan impressed with his blazing speed and contact skills, hitting .227 with 9 stolen bases in limited playing time. His defensive versatility also adds to his intrigue. Brujan’s 2021 Bowman Chrome Sapphire Prizm Blues and Topps Finest Sapphire parallels have already started to climb as fans eagerly anticipate him playing everyday in 2022. If he can show more consistency at the plate to go with his top-flight skills, Brujan could blossom into a perennial All-Star and one of the game’s most dynamic players.

Over in the NL West, the Los Angeles Dodgers saw top pitching prospects like Bobby Miller, Ryan Pepiot, and Andre Jackson all make their MLB debuts in 2021. Of the bunch, Miller in particular wowed scouts by dealing 100mph heat and a biting slider in his few appearances late in the year. He could be on the fast track to the Dodgers rotation in 2022. Miller’s 2021 Bowman Chrome Sapphire Prizm Orange parallels seem to be gaining in value the most now. They present an investment opportunity, as his upside is sky high if he develops hissecondary pitches to match the electric stuff that’s already Major League ready.

Switching leagues, Baltimore Orioles pitcher John Means emerged as one of the game’s pleasant surprises in 2021. After a All-Star caliber first half, Means finished with a 3.62 ERA and 140 strikeouts in 165.2 innings. His 2021 Topps Chrome Sapphire Prizm Red and Bowman Platinum Parallels are some of the more expensive O’s rookie options on the market today as collectors bet on Means cementing himself as the staff ace going forward. His breakout season showed this former undrafted pitching has what it takes to succeed in the AL East for years to come if he remains consistent.

While it’s still very early in the careers of these rookies, several showed flashes of genuine star potential in their MLB debut campaigns in 2021. Franco, Abrams, Miller, and Brujan in particular seem poised for stardom if their development continues on track. Their top rookie cards from flagship Topps products as well as Chrome, Finest, and higher end sets like Bowman Platinum offer affordable investment opportunities for long term upside as these young stars hopefully rise to the top of the league. Be sure to keep an eye on these talented rookies throughout 2022 and beyond as their card values could really take off with more success on the field.