Tag Archives: 2023

BASEBALL CARDS PACKS 2023

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Baseball card collecting is a beloved hobby for many sports fans. Each new year brings anticipation for the upcoming baseball season as well as the release of new baseball card sets and packs. 2023 promises to be another exciting year for the hobby, with several major card companies unveiling new products featuring today’s top MLB stars and rookies.

Topps has been the dominant force in the baseball card industry for decades. In 2023, Topps will release its flagship Topps Series 1 baseball card set in late winter/early spring. This set annually features over 300 base cards highlighting players from all 30 MLB teams. Topps Series 1 cards for rookies and stars are usually in high demand from collectors. Some key rookies expected to have cards in the 2023 Topps Series 1 set include Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals and Riley Greene of the Detroit Tigers – two highly-touted prospects who made their MLB debuts in 2022. Topps will also release special parallel and short-printed “hit” cards within the Series 1 set to add to the excitement of opening packs.

In addition to Series 1, Topps plans to release Series 2 and Heritage sets later in the season. The Heritage set pays tribute to the classic baseball card designs of the past. Topps Update, released in fall, provides updated player info and rookie cards for call-ups who debuted after the initial Series 1-3 releases. Jumbo boxes containing 24 packs and guaranteed autograph or memorabilia cards will be available for each Topps flagship set. Topps Chrome, featuring refractors and other “hit” parallel cards, is sure to be another popular product. Overall, Topps remains the most accessible brand for the average collector due to widespread retail distribution of their products at major outlets.

Upper Deck is the other major player in the modern baseball card market. In 2023, Upper Deck will continue their Sterling brand which focuses on premium cards with higher end parallels and autographs. Sterling packs and boxes are more expensive than typical Topps but offer collectors a different artistic style and “hit” odds. Upper Deck’s 2023 MLB flagship set is slated for release in March/April and will feature base cards of all current players as well as prospects. Upper Deck is known for innovative parallel designs like their “Black” and “Gold” refractors that attract high-end collectors. Their products may not be found in as many retail stores but are readily available online.

Panini is a relative newcomer to baseball cards but has gained popularity in recent years. Panini’s 2023 Donruss set is scheduled to drop in late winter/early spring with on-trend retro designs and a fan-favorite “Optic” parallel set. Panini is also expected to release more of their “Prizm” basketball-style refractors in a baseball card edition. While Panini products are distributed primarily through hobby shops and online, their colorful “hits” have earned them a cult following. Collectors will be on the lookout for rookie cards of emerging young stars in Panini’s 2023 releases.

In addition to the flagship releases from Topps, Upper Deck, and Panini, several smaller companies offer niche baseball card products. Leaf produces high-end sets focused more on memorabilia and autographs. Allen & Ginter brings an eclectic mix of players alongside non-sports inserts. Stadium Club and Bowman are known for their photograph-centric base card designs. And collectors can find retail-exclusive sets sold at big box stores under brands like Topps Transcendent and Donruss Elite.

Overall, 2023 looks to be a strong year for new baseball card releases and the hobby overall. With a full MLB season on deck after two pandemic-impacted years, interest and excitement among players both young and old is running high. Top rookies like Oneil Cruz, Bobby Witt Jr. and others will attract new collectors to the hobby. And time-tested brands like Topps, Upper Deck and Panini will continue to innovate and drive the market forward. Whether collecting base cards, parallels or autographs, there will be no shortage of product for those seeking to build their collections throughout the upcoming season.

MOST VALUABLE 2023 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS SERIES 1

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The release of Topps Baseball’s 2023 Series 1 base set marks the beginning of the newest collecting season. As with every year, a small selection of rookie cards and star veteran cards rise above the rest due to increased demand. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most valuable 2023 Topps Series 1 cards collectors will be hunting for.

One of the biggest rookies featured is Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Peña. After winning World Series MVP honors in just his first full MLB season in 2022, Peña (#65) is poised to be one of the game’s top young stars for years to come. While print runs are still large for standard base rookie cards in Series 1, the sharp increase in talent level and name recognition has pushed Peña’s cards above $20 already. More prestige parallels and autographs could climb significantly higher.

Another rookie generating excitement is Los Angeles Dodgers newcomer Miguel Vargas (#66). The 22-year-old had a strong showing in his MLB debut late last season and will look to lock down the starting third base job in 2023. His electric play draws comparisons to Adrian Beltre, giving Vargas legitimate star potential. Like Peña, the low-numbered parallels and autograph versions of Vargas’ rookie card have seen early demand around $25-50.

One of the most prolific rookies of 2022 was Seattle Mariners sensation Julio Rodriguez. While Topps didn’t land Rodriguez’s exclusive cellopack signing, collectors will still flock to his base rookie card (#245). Even in Series 1’s much larger print runs, J-Rod’s star power keeps pushing his standard rookie toward $15-20. His autographs, memorabilia cards and 1-of-1 parallels could be true six-figure hits long term.

Another big name rookie is Detroit Tigers pitcher Jackson Jobe (#255). The 2019 #3 overall draft pick had a breakout season in High-A in 2022 and is one of the game’s elite pitching prospects. Despite lacking MLB experience, strong performances in spring could skyrocket Jobe among the rookie class. His straight from pack cards trade between $10-15 already.

On the veteran side, no cards rival two-way phenom Shohei Ohtani’s appeal. The reigning AL MVP proved he’s must-watch TV every time he takes the mound or comes to the plate for the Los Angeles Angels. Even with larger print runs, Ohtani’s base card (#262) consistently trades above $10-15 based on his singular abilities and mass popularity. Low-numbered versions could reach $1,000+ long term for the face of MLB.

Another vet generating hype is Atlanta Braves superstar Ronald Acuña Jr. (#305) as he looks to return to MVP form in 2023 coming off knee surgery. While he missed significant time the last two seasons, Acuña still has legitimate 40/40 potential and five-tool star appeal when healthy. His cards have remained hot during his rehab, placing his base around the $15 range. Top memorabilia cards could approach five figures long term.

One of the most quietly valuable veterans may be Washington Nationals outfielder Juan Soto (#340) as he starts his first full season since controversially being traded. At just 24, Soto has already established himself as one of the game’s premier pure hitters. If he produces another MVP-caliber season, top versions of his 2023 Topps cards may leap toward $100-200 based on his future superstar projection.

These top rookies, veterans and new stars provide a glimpse at the early big movers in the 2023 Topps Series 1 release. With a full season ahead to further impress, players like Peña, Vargas, Rodriguez, Jobe, Ohtani, Acuña and Soto carry immense potential to breakout and lead the collecting market in 2023. For fans and investors alike, sorting through Series 1 boxes and packs at retail will be highly entertaining given all the emerging talent present. While print runs remain sizable, securing graded gem rookie cards of the game’s next superstars could yield six or even seven figure returns down the line. Whether collecting for enjoyment or investment, 2023 Topps Series 1 again provides a fun launching point for the yearly chase of baseball’s biggest stars.

BEST CARDS IN 2023 TOPPS BASEBALL

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BOWMAN 2023 BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 2023 Bowman baseball card set is one of the most highly anticipated releases each year for collectors and investors. While the cards have only been available for a short time, there are already some noteworthy rookies and prospects that could yield strong long-term value. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the top cards from Bowman 2023 and analyze their potential worth.

One of the headliners of the set is shortstop Jackson Holliday, who was taken first overall by the Baltimore Orioles in the 2022 MLB Draft. Holliday is considered a true five-tool talent and one of the best prospects to come out of the draft in years. His autographed rookie cards /99 and /50 have already sold in the $300-500 range on eBay. As Holliday rises through the Orioles system and potentially reaches the majors in 2024 or 2025, those low-numbered autographs could appreciate quite nicely. Even his base rookie card #132 could be a strong long-term hold, as a future star player’s first card holds significant cachet and value.

Another pitcher generating a lot of buzz is second overall pick Druw Jones from the Arizona Diamondbacks. Like Holliday, Jones has all the tools to be an absolute stud if he reaches his ceiling. His Bowman Chrome autographed refractor rookie /99 has already changed hands for around $400. Jones’ prospect status and rare refractors make him a viable investment, though investing in prospects always carries risk. His father Andruw was a 10-time Gold Glover in center field, giving Druw legendary baseball genes working in his favor.

Beyond the top two picks, outfielders Elijah Green (#3), Termarr Johnson (#4), and Brooks Lee (#8) are other highly-touted position players from the 2022 draft class that could yield returns. Green’s autographed rookie refractor /99 has sold for $150-200 already. Johnson’s and Lee’s low-numbered chrome refractors have traded in the $75-150 range on eBay. All three have the potential to be impact big leaguers and move their cards substantially higher with strong pro careers.

On the international side, shortstops Angel Martinez, Lazaro Montes, and Emiliano Giron have generated buzz in the prospect community. Martinez in particular has received rave scouting reviews out of the Dominican Republic, leading to his Bowman Chrome autographs selling between $50-100 already. The 16-year-olds have plenty of time to develop, but if even one pans out as a star, their low-print cards stand to gain value.

Veteran star cards are also a consideration, as Bowman is the only set that features players’ very first professional cards. Cards like Ronald Acuña Jr. #57 from 2012 or Juan Soto #157 from 2015 have sold for thousands in high grades. While present-day stars’ rookies from over a decade ago are out of reach for most collectors today, holding their cards long-term for potential future appreciation could prove wise.

As with any investment in prospects and young players, there is risk in Bowman cards. Not every touted prospect fulfills their potential. Injuries could derail careers. But for those willing to do the research, identify the true elite talents, and hold cards for 5-10+ years, the returns can be substantial. The 2023 Bowman set offers access to the next generation of baseball’s future stars and Hall of Famers. By focusing on top draft picks and international signings, collectors stand the best chance of selecting cards that appreciate exponentially in value.

While Bowman 2023 cards hold risk, they also present opportunity. Rookies of potential future superstars like Holliday, Jones, Green and others are obtainable now but could be worth ten times as much within a decade if those players blossom. Pairing patience with savvy card selection from the set can yield impressive long-term returns for investors. The 2023 Bowman release offers a promising crop of young talent that collectors would do well to keep an eye on and hold selectively for years to come.

BOWMAN 2023 BASEBALL CARDS AUTOGRAPHS

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The 2023 Bowman baseball card set is one of the most highly anticipated releases each year for collectors due to its prospects and autographs. Bowman is famous for featuring the sport’s top prospects and rookie cards of current stars before they make their MLB debut. This year’s set promises to continue that tradition with several can’t-miss prospects signing autograph deals.

Topping the list for many is Druw Jones, the son of five-time Gold Glove winner Andruw Jones. Druw was selected second overall by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 2022 MLB Draft after a stellar career at Wesleyan High School in Norcross, Georgia. Scouts rave about the 19-year-old’s five-tool potential and compare his game to his father’s in his prime. Jones signed an exclusive autograph agreement with Bowman and collectors are eager to obtain his signed rookie card. Early estimates suggest the card could demand upwards of $500-$1000 in top grades due to his pedigree and hype as one of the top prospects in baseball.

Another highly sought-after autograph will be Jackson Holliday, the 2021 first overall draft pick by the Baltimore Orioles. Holliday had an outstanding debut season in the minors, slashing .290/.390/.510 with 10 home runs and 20 stolen bases between three levels. The 18-year-old shortstop has all the makings of a future all-star and his Bowman autograph card is sure to be a hot commodity. Like Jones, Holliday’s autograph rights belong solely to Topps and collectors can expect his signed rookie to carry a hefty price tag.

Aside from Jones and Holliday, several other elite prospects inked autograph pacts with Bowman that will make their signed cards valuable for years to come. One of the most exciting is Daniel Espino, a flamethrowing righty in the Cleveland Guardians system. Espino regularly touches triple digits with his fastball and mixes in a sharp slider. He made his MLB debut in 2022 out of the bullpen and will start the year in Triple-A. Espino’s autograph is a great addition for any prospect collector.

Brooks Lee also agreed to sign exclusively for Bowman after being selected 8th overall by the Minnesota Twins last summer. Lee had a stellar career as a third baseman at Cal Poly and has an advanced offensive approach for his age. Scouts rave about his bat-to-ball skills and feel he will hit for both power and average. His autographed rookie will be a cornerstone for any Twins PC.

Another can’t-miss pitching prospect signing with Bowman is Kumar Rocker, who re-entered the draft last year after health concerns caused him to fall in 2021. Rocker dominated in 2022 between High-A and Double-A in the Giants system and has the potential to be an ace. His autograph rights are highly coveted and collectors are hoping for a redemption card to land his John Hancock.

A darkhorse to become one of the top Bowman autographs is shortstop Mikey Romero. Romero was a fifth round pick by the Chicago White Sox last summer out of Orange Lutheran High School in California. He has plus speed, solid defense, and developing power that could make him a future all-star. His autographed rookie card carries sleeper appeal at a fraction of the cost of higher profile names.

In addition to prospects, Bowman also secured autograph deals with several young MLB stars looking to cement their legacies. Cardinals outfielder Dylan Carlson, Mariners rookie sensation Julio Rodriguez, and Giants pitcher Logan Webb are just a few examples. Their autographed cards from early in their careers will be valuable for collectors pursuing complete long-term PC sets.

As always, Bowman prospects and stars autographs will be the most sought-after rookie cards on the market. The exclusives signed with Druw Jones, Jackson Holliday, Kumar Rocker, and others make 2023 Bowman a must-buy for any serious baseball card investor or collector. With so much elite young talent, this year’s release is poised to produce cards that stand the test of time and gain tremendous value as players emerge as future all-stars. The hunt will be on this spring to track down these coveted autographed rookie cards.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS SERIES 2 2023

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Topps Baseball Cards Series 2 2023: A Closer Look at a New Release

Baseball card collectors eagerly await each new series release from Topps each year. Series 2 for 2023 spawned particular excitement among fans given it marked the first new series release after the successful 2023 regular season. Topps Baseball Cards Series 2 2023 delivers 285 total cards including base parallels, inserts and special cards highlighting the biggest MLB stars and top performers from the year. Let’s take a closer look at some key aspects of this anticipated new series.

Base Cards and Parallels: Like previous years, the bulk of Series 2 consists of base cards for every MLB player. The cards feature vibrant photos of the athletes in action along with stats from the 2023 season. Topps utilizes several parallel variations of the base cards to add to the collection, including Silver Pack parallels stamped with a shiny silver logo, Gold Standard parallels with gold stamping and Red storm parallels entirely colored red with color-matched numbering. All told there are around 225 base cards along with various parallels inserted throughout packs and boxes at different rarities.

Rookies and Prospects: No MLB release would be complete without focus on the next generation of young stars. Series 2 highlights several top prospects like Druw Jones and Elijah Green who saw their first MLB action in 2023. It also features the full rookie class that debuted this past season. Top rookie cards like Oneil Cruz, Gavin Stone and Bobby Witt Jr. are hotly pursued. Prospect parallels and inserts provide a glimpse at future MLB talent still climbing the minor league ranks.

Performers of the Year: Topps recognizes the top statistical achievements and award winners from the 2023 season through special highlight cards. Cards feature NL MVP Soto, AL Cy Young Verlander, batting champ Arraez and more. Additional inserts focus on players who had breakout seasons or hit career milestones. An entire insert set spotlights notable single-game performances from the year as well.

Autographs and Memorabilia: Higher end parallels in Series 2 provide the chance for autographed and memorabilia cards of the sport’s greatest names. 1/1 auto parallel inserts feature signed swatches of uniforms or equipment attributed to stars like Ohtani, Judge and Acuña Jr. Lower print run memorabilia cards combine stats with game-used pieces of jerseys, bats or balls adding immense value to a collection.

Stadium Signature Series: A fan favorite insert focuses on iconic ballpark moments and eras gone by. Players are depicted in classic photo poses from their days playing in hallowed stadiums of yesterday with on-card autographs. Cards pair images from Tiger Stadium, the Polo Grounds and more with signatures of legends who starred within their walls decades ago.

Non-Sports Inserts: Topps intersperses several fun non-sports cards throughout Series 2 packs and boxes as bonus inserts. “Back to the Topps” highlights the evolution of Topps cards over decades past in their classic distinctive designs. “Women in Baseball” shares the untold stories of pioneering females who broke barriers in the sport. “Bat Cracks” puts a contemporary twist on the traditional card backs by decorating them in the style of broken bats.

With premium prospects, star rookies and parallels focused on the biggest names and performances from 2023, Topps Baseball Cards Series 2 delivers something for every kind of collector. Whether seeking base RCs for PC builds or chasing 1/1 hits, this release invites fans both casual and die-hard to relive this past MLB season through the iconic cardboard tradition of Topps cards. Series 2 is sure to entice collectors for years to come with its blend nostalgia and spotlight on a new generation shaping the game’s future.

SERIES 2 BASEBALL CARDS 2023

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The release of Series 2 baseball cards each year marks the halfway point of the baseball card season. After the huge checklist of rookie cards, prospects and veterans in Series 1, Series 2 provides another batch of opportunities for collectors to add new cards to their collections before the postseason. For the 2023 season, the highly anticipated Series 2 release is set to include more rookie sensation cards, international prospects making their card debuts and exciting veteran stars.

Some of the biggest rookie names expected to have new cards in 2023 Series 2 include catcher Adley Rutschman of the Baltimore Orioles, shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals and outfielder Julio Rodriguez of the Seattle Mariners. All three made splashy MLB debuts in 2022 and are viewed as future cornerstones for their rebuilding franchises. Rutschman in particular is likely to have a prized autograph or memorabilia card after a strong rookie campaign that saw him named AL Rookie of the Year.

On the pitching side, some highly touted new arms to watch for include Oakland A’s lefty Ken Waldichuk, Cincinnati Reds hurler Hunter Greene and Tampa Bay Rays starter Shane Baz. Waldichuk blazed through the minors in 2022 and could find himself as a future #2 starter. Greene overcame injury issues to show electric stuff, and Baz returned late in the year from Tommy John surgery with much promise. Parallels, refractors and autographs of any of these rookie hurlers would be a great centerpiece for a collection.

In terms of international prospects, the cream of the crop signed in 2022 expected to get cards includes Cuban shortstop Lázaro Montes and Dominican outfielder Juan Yepez. Montes inked a $3 million deal with the Cardinals and has drawn comparisons to fellow countryman Starlin Castro for his smooth actions and offensive tools. Yepez signed for $1.5 million with the Rockies and at 6-foot-3, 200 pounds already has ideal size to be a power-hitting corner bat. Watch for special parallel color versions of these prospects as they begin their pro careers stateside in 2023.

One area Series 2 has expanded in recent years is showing veterans in new uniforms after trades and free agent signings. Expected to be among those with updated team logo cards are Aaron Judge with the Giants/Yankees, Xander Bogaerts with the Phillies and Carlos Rodon with the Giants. Christian Vázquez also deserves a Red Sox to Astros card after the midseason deal. Collectors love chasing these transition players in hopes of netting a new “first” team issue before photo variations emerge.

The huge short print chase cards in 2023 Series 2 are also cause for excitement among the collecting community. Past years have seen coveted 1/1 autographs or rare parallels of stars like Mike Trout, Ronald Acuña Jr., Shohei Ohtani and Fernando Tatis Jr. Only available in a handful of hobby boxes, landing any of these immense short prints could provide a true crown jewel for a player collection. With so many new rookies emerging, the choice for a short printed phenom is endless and keeps the hunt highly anticipated.

Continuing storylines from 2022 that are sure to drive interest in Series 2 include Cardinals slugger Paul Goldschmidt pursuing his first MVP Award and Marcell Ozuna working back from suspension to rejoin the Braves. On the National League Cy Young front, Miami’s Sandy Alcantara and Atlanta’s Max Fried lead the pack of young aces who could further cement their reputations with another strong season. And in the AL, Shohei Ohtani’s encore after his historic 2021 promises to be must-see as he divides time on the mound and in the box again for the Angels.

With just half a season’s worth of stats and storylines to draw from, Series 2 each year brings an infusion of fresh cardboard to build upon the initial rookie classes, breakout players and veterans from Series 1. For modern baseball card collectors, the checklist reveals for Series 2 create new building blocks to strengthen growing collections with each player’s continuing success and evolution. Whether chasing short prints, landing rookie phenoms or adding stars in new uniforms, the midseason Series 2 release ensures the hobby steamrolls into fall and winter on a high note.

EXPENSIVE 2023 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 baseball card season is well underway, and as with any year, there are always certain rookie cards and veterans that command premium prices. While it’s still early, some cards have already established themselves as truly valuable modern pieces for collectors. With players like Shohei Ohtani, Juan Soto, and Ronald Acuña Jr. continuing to dominate on the field, their rookie cards remain highly sought after. Meanwhile, new rookies like Julio Rodriguez and Bobby Witt Jr. are making a strong early impression and generating buzz around their fresh cardboard. Let’s take a look at some of the costliest 2023 baseball cards on the market so far.

Perhaps the most expensive 2023 baseball card to date is the Juan Soto Topps Chrome Refractor rookie card. Soto has cemented himself as one of the game’s true superstars after winning the Home Run Derby in back-to-back years. As a result, his 2018 Topps Chrome Refractor RC is one of the most coveted modern cards in the hobby. Fresh PSA 10 examples of this Soto gem have been selling for $1,500 or more. While it’s not technically a 2023 release, the sustained demand for Soto cards makes this one an obvious inclusion.

Staying in the realm of established young stars, the Topps Chrome Sapphire Shohei Ohtani rookie card has also been a hot ticket. As the current AL MVP and one of baseball’s biggest draws, collectors pay top dollar to own a piece of Ohtani history. Pristine PSA 10 examples of his 2018 Topps Chrome Sapphire RC have changed hands for $800-1000 so far in 2023. The card remains quite scarce in a flawless grade.

Turning to true 2023 releases, the Topps Chrome Sapphire Julio Rodriguez rookie refractor is a clear early standout. Rodriguez had a phenomenal rookie campaign with the Mariners and looks poised for stardom. Low-numbered versions of his Topps Chrome Sapphire refractor, which parallels number to /150, have sold in the $400-600 range when freshly graded PSA 10. This bodes well for the card’s long term potential as Rodriguez continues to produce.

Another 2023 rookie making waves is Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals. After an impressive debut season that saw him finish second in the AL ROY voting, Witt mania is in full effect. His Topps Chrome Sapphire rookie refractor /150 parallel has also been a hot ticket, with PSA 10 examples reaching $350-450. Like Rodriguez, Witt’s continued development should only serve to increase demand for this prized rookie card.

Veteran superstars continue to hold significant value as well. For example, a PSA 10 Ronald Acuña Jr. Topps Chrome Sapphire rookie refractor from 2018 has sold for around $700 this year. The two-time All-Star is still just 25 and returning from injury, so his cards remain a staple in collections. Meanwhile, superfractor parallels have also drawn big bucks – a one-of-one Mike Trout Topps Fire red refractor sold for a whopping $9,000 in August after months of bidding. Trout’s unmatched consistency and star power will likely keep even his parallels pricey for years to come.

Looking ahead to potential risers as the year progresses, keep an eye on cards from breakout young talent like Oneil Cruz, Joe Ryan, and Michael Harris II. Cruz’s electric tools have already driven some parallel rookie refractors above $100. Meanwhile, rookie cups and autographs of emerging stars like Harris II and Ryan could gain steam if they sustain strong play down the stretch. On the veteran side, expect continued strong prices for Gerrit Cole, Aaron Judge, and other active greats amid contract years and playoff pushes.

While still relatively early, the 2023 season has already produced some expensive modern baseball cards. Established stars like Soto, Ohtani and Acuña continue dominating alongside emerging talents like Rodriguez and Witt Jr. As the year progresses, more rookie gems as well as parallels and autographs of rising young players are likely to break out. With a fresh crop of rookies joining longtime greats, the 2023-24 offseason shaping up to be another big one for the trading card market. Condition-sensitive cards like refractors and sapphires in pristine PSA 10 will remain the most costly, but compelling rookies and vets across all products and grades are primed for strong collector demand.

2023 BIG LEAGUE BASEBALL CARDS CHECKLIST

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The 2023 MLB season will see baseball card manufacturers like Topps, Panini, Leaf, and others release new trading card products featuring the biggest stars and top rookies from this year. As with every season, collectors are eager to get their hands on the newest releases to add to their collections or potentially find valuable rookie cards of future Hall of Famers. While full checklists and release dates have not yet been officially announced, here is a look at some of the key players we can expect to see featured prominently in the upcoming year of baseball cards based on what is known so far:

Shohei Ohtani (Los Angeles Angels) – There may not be a more sought-after card in 2023 than another Shohei Ohtani rookie card after his historic 2021 AL MVP season. While he no longer qualifies as a true rookie, Ohtani will certainly be one of the faces of many new sets. Look for parallels, autographs and memorabilia cards of the two-way star.

Juan Soto (San Diego Padres) – Traded from the Nationals at the deadline, Soto remains one of the game’s brightest young stars at just 24. His cards jumped in value after the move and collectors will be hunting his Padres rookie cards in ’23 sets.

Ronald Acuña Jr. (Atlanta Braves) – Back from a torn ACL that cost him most of 2022, Acuña is still just 25 and has superstar potential if he can stay healthy. His 2018 Bowman Chrome Prospect card remains a Holy Grail for many.

Wander Franco (Tampa Bay Rays) – Franco made a huge splash as a rookie in 2021 and at just 21, has many monster seasons still ahead. His autographed and memorabilia cards will be in high demand.

Julio Rodriguez (Seattle Mariners) – Rodriguez had a phenomenal rookie campaign and seems destined for stardom. Look for his rookie cards, especially autographs, to gain value over the next year.

Bobby Witt Jr. (Kansas City Royals) – As one of the most hyped prospects of recent years, Witt delivered in his first MLB season. His rookie cards, especially numbered parallels, will be hot commodities.

Riley Greene (Detroit Tigers) – Greene showed flashes as a rookie and will be one of the building blocks for the Tigers going forward. His Bowman Chrome Prospect card looks primed to gain value.

Adley Rutschman (Baltimore Orioles) – After a strong debut late in 2022, Rutschman looks like the franchise catcher the O’s have been waiting for. Watch his Bowman cards and rookie cards gain steam.

Oneil Cruz (Pittsburgh Pirates) – With his incredible power and speed for a big man, Cruz made a name for himself in a brief stint last season. He’ll be one to watch develop further.

Gavin Lux (Los Angeles Dodgers) – Lux has struggled to stick so far but still has potential as a former top prospect. His cards could rebound with a breakout year.

Nico Hoerner (Chicago Cubs) – Hoerner is one of the few established players on a rebuilding Cubs roster and his star could rise as a result.

In addition to starring rookies and young talent, perennial stars will continue to see their cards in demand as well, including Aaron Judge, Mike Trout, Mookie Betts, Fernando Tatis Jr. (when healthy), Bryce Harper and more. Veterans chasing milestones like Albert Pujols and Miguel Cabrera will also get card recognition.

Topps, as the longest-tenured baseball card maker, will almost certainly release flagship products like Series 1, 2, Update and High Tek. They may also bring back retro sets tied to classic designs from the 80s, 90s and 2000s.

Panini is sure to build on the success of Donruss and Contenders with more inserts and parallels focusing on hits. And Bowman, their prospect brand, remains the best place to find the next generation of stars.

Leaf and other smaller companies will aim for niche releases with autograph or memorabilia focuses to stand out. Digital platforms like Topps BUNT are also gaining steam for collecting virtually.

While specific release dates and checklist details are still to be finalized, 2023 is primed to be another huge year of baseball card collecting and speculation as the next wave of young stars emerges. With a fresh crop of rookies and continued production from perennial MVP candidates, there will be no shortage of exciting cards to chase.

2023 TOPPS SERIES ONE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 Topps Series One baseball card set is one of the most anticipated releases each year. As the flagship set from Topps, Series One kicks off the new season with a bang by featuring the biggest stars, prospects, and rookies from across Major League Baseball. Slated for wide release in February 2023, let’s take an in-depth look at what collectors can expect from next year’s first Topps series.

The base card design continues Topps’ trend of clean and classic looks. On a white background, player photos are prominently featured along with team logos at the bottom. Statistics and career highlights are included on the back. As with recent years, parallels and inserts will give collectors multiple versions to find. The ever-popular Chrome and paper base cards will be joined by refractors, gold foil parallels, and more. Topps Allen & Ginter-style artwork variations are sure to be a fan favorite parallel.

Rookies are always a major focus of Series One, and 2023 appears to have one of the strongest rookie classes in recent memory. Shortstop Oneil Cruz and outfielder Riley Greene will be among the top Detroit Tigers prospects looking to make their MLB debut. Seattle Mariners fans are eagerly awaiting the arrival of touted prospect Julio Rodriguez. Pitchers Grayson Rodriguez of the Baltimore Orioles and Hunter Greene of the Cincinnati Reds are two flamethrowers on the mound to watch. Additional top prospects like Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals and Spencer Torkelson of the Detroit Tigers could also get their first cards in this set if they make their teams’ Opening Day rosters.

Autograph and memorabilia cards remain a big chase. Topps Update Series introduced its “Hit Parade” insert set last year featuring swatches and signatures of star players like Shohei Ohtani and Ronald Acuna Jr. Expect a similar concept to return in Series One with top current players and a mix of legends from baseball’s past. “Topps Living” cards pairing current players with retired greats they were compared to as prospects are always popular. Serial-numbered parallels make the best autographs and relics that much harder to obtain.

As technology continues to evolve the hobby, Topps Series One is embracing new insert sets focused on cutting-edge stats and player tracking data. Last year saw the introduction of “Stat Blast” cards highlighting advanced metrics. Expect to see Topps build on innovative concepts like this that blend baseball’s traditional appeal with modern analytical insights. Virtual reality and augmented reality are technologies some speculate could find their way into flagship sets in the future as well.

With baseball’s increased focus on international players in recent years, Topps has responded by highlighting more foreign-born talent. Cuban stars like Jose Abreu and Randy Arozarena have become breakout cover athletes. Topps Traditions inserts celebrate icons from global markets like Japan and Latin America. The 2023 Series One set will give emerging international stars increased exposure to collectors worldwide.

Topps has also committed to making the hobby more inclusive. Initiatives like ” HERstory in HITS” have paid homage to the pioneering women of baseball both past and present. Collector favorites like Mo’ne Davis can be found in Series One alongside legends like Toni Stone. Topps’ support of the Negro Leagues Centennial Celebration and commemorative card designs honoring trailblazing African American ballplayers are important steps in preserving baseball’s rich history for all.

With a release date likely in mid-February, the 2023 Topps Series One baseball card set is sure to be a massive retail and hobby hit. As the standard bearer for the new season each year, it will feature the latest rookie class and star players along with innovative inserts, parallels, and autographs to chase. Whether seeking the next big name or celebrating baseball’s legacy, Topps Series One continues to be must-have product for collectors of all interests every spring. Its wide availability in stores, affordable hobby boxes, and historical significance cement its status as one of the true flagship releases in the annual sports card calendar.