Tag Archives: 2023

TARGET 2023 BASEBALL CARDS

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Target is gearing up for another huge baseball card release in 2023. The retail giant has become a mainstay for budget-friendly card releases in recent years that both collectors and casual fans can enjoy. Their exclusive partnerships with card manufacturers like Topps, Panini, Leaf, and others means lots of new and exciting options will hit Target store shelves and their website next spring. Here’s a deeper look at some of the promising Target 2023 baseball card releases collectors can plan on finding.

Topps Series 1 is always one of the first big releases of the new year, and Target will have exclusive blaster and hanger box variants of the flagship product beginning in late February or early March. The checklist and designs have not been revealed yet, but collectors can expect rookie cards of young stars like Bobby Witt Jr. and dozens of new Red Foil Parallels that are popular Target exclusives. This will be a budget-friendly way for collectors new and old to fill out their rosters ahead of the season.

Bowman’s Best was a surprise hit for Target in 2022 with their retail exclusive Mega Boxes full of high-end paper prospects and parallels. Look for Bowman’s Best 2023 at Target sometime in April or May with another shot at hard signed rookie cards of rising prospects outside of the big box hobby releases. The design direction for next year is still under wraps, but collectors will surely flock to Target store aisles searching for the next superstar signed auto.

Allen & Ginter returns to Target after a two year hiatus, but 2023 should see an expanded release through exclusive blaster and hanger box variants beginning in late May or early June. Past Target exclusives featured unique parallels and bonus hits that made ripping packs very enticing for the lower price point. The Nostalgia-themed inserts and diverse checklist beyond just MLB players gives A&G a fun, retro vibe perfect for Target shoppers.

Heritage Minors is a new Target exclusive brand debuting in Summer 2023 focused on minor league and independent ballplayers. With such a player-heavy checklist and diverse autograph selection, Heritage Minors fills an untapped niche at an affordable level. Variations, parallels and exclusive short prints should give chasers plenty to hunt through cost-effective blaster box breaks. Minor league fans seeking rookie autos of future big leaguers will find Heritage Minors a bright spot.

Target’s partnerships with Panini guarantee some exciting new releases for 2023 as well. Donruss Baseball is slated to return with Target exclusive blaster and hanger boxes loaded with shiny parallels and special Veterans refractors beginning in late May.

Contenders Baseball also has Target retail exclusives planned for August featuring prizm parallels, numbered refractors and coveted on-card rookie autographs of prospects rising through the minors. Contenders is known for ‘hitability’ at the lower hobby levels compared to its high-end counterparts.

Finally, Archives Snapshots is a new retro-themed parallel brand from Panini debuting at Target in September. With retro designs, on-trend variations and autograph options, Snapshots should be a refreshing late-season filler box option for collectors. The brand celebrates the history and iconic photography of baseball card archives from the 1960s-1980s.

With such a wide variety of brands, parallels and special products in the works, Target is sure to be “baseball card central” once again in 2023. Their exclusive nature and solid distribution means products virtually fly off shelves. Collectors marking their calendars now have the best shot at chasing down new rookies, stars and numbered hits throughout the spring and summer ahead of next season. Though release dates may fluctuate, Target’s consistent retail presence is establishing them as a card collector’s best friend.

TYPES OF 2023 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 Topps baseball card release will feature many of the standard card types collectors have come to expect each year, as well as some exciting new insert sets. Topps is the dominant brand in the baseball card industry and their yearly releases are highly anticipated. Let’s take a closer look at the various types of cards collectors can find in the upcoming 2023 Topps series 1, series 2, and update sets.

The base card is the backbone of any Topps release and accounts for the majority of cards in each set. For 2023, the base cards will feature simplified minimalist designs highlighting the players’ photos on a solid color background. Ranging from common to rare, there will be several parallel variations of the base cards including gold foil, black border, chrome, and more. Topps typically prints millions of these basic cards to meet demand.

Rookie cards for new Major League players remain a driving force behind the hobby. Topps guarantees an autograph or memorabilia card for every rookie in their first Topps series and often feature them prominently in inserts as well. 2023 is shaping up to be a big year for rookie cards as prospects like Gunnar Henderson and Druw Jones are expected to debut. Topps will no doubt give these rookies premium treatments across their different sets.

Short prints and rare parallels enhance the chase for collectors. Topps usually includes between 50-100 short prints in each base set that are much harder to find than regular cards. Rarer parallels like black border 1/1’s, gold refractor 1/1’s, and prestige primes pull collectors to bust countless packs. These scarce variations add value and excitement to the hunt.

Autograph and memorabilia cards containing game-used relics from uniforms and signatures directly on the card are also a big draw. While expensive hobby boxes may include low-numbered auto parallels, retail blasters and hangers rarely yield anything autographed, keeping supply tight. Relics ranging from simple fabrics to large swatches can be found across the Topps product lines.

Legendary annual insert sets like Topps Chrome, Topps Heritage, Topps Gallery and Topps Tribute provide throwbacks and special treatments of players and designs. Chrome unveils new stunning refractors while Heritage mimics classic card appearances. Tribute honors all-time greats and milestones. Gallery shifts the artistic focus to amazing headshots and action shots. Collector demand ensures that even common inserts hold value.

Masterworks is a leading example of Topps’ premium tier offerings. Limited to only a few hundred or thousand copies, these high-end Masterworks parallels push the boundaries of card production. Memorabilia pieces become true works of art encased behind the finest card substrates available. Acquiring a Masterworks parallel places one amongst the most elite collectors.

Topps prides itself on series-spanning narratives between releases too. Storyline and storyline extended parallel sets track individual player seasons or accomplishments across multiple sets. Concepts like Galactic parallels envision players in intergalactic scenes. Jumbos supersize cards and logos for maximum visual impact.

Exclusive licensed sets cover everything from specific seasons, playoff teams and World Series matchups to all-league performances. Sets solely devoted to trading cards of Negro Leagues legends and pioneering women players work to highlight overlooked histories as well. There’s truly a card for every collector in each Topps release no matter the budget or interests.

While card designs, subsets and insert themes vary from year to year, Topps sustains buzz for its flagship baseball releases through reliable staples, guaranteed hits, driven rookie classes, short printed chase cards and high-tier luxury offerings. With increased production across different sports properties too, Topps remains king of the modern trading card industry and the go-to brand for baseball collectors both casual and diehard. Their 2023 series are looking to continue growing the hobby’s appeal to new generations with familiar formulas and innovative surprises.

TOPPS 2023 BASEBALL CARDS SERIES 1

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Topps released their flagship baseball card set Series 1 for the 2023 season in late January 2023. The set contained a wide variety of rookies, veterans, and young stars from around Major League Baseball. With its heritage dating back to 1949, the Topps Series 1 set is one of the most popular and widely collected annual releases.

Series 1 for 2023 kept with Topps tradition of covering the entire league with equal distribution of cards between American and National League teams. The set size was 264 total cards with 226 standard player and coach cards along with 38 additional cards featuring top prospects, relics, and insert sets. Some of the biggest rookie hits collectors were chasing included Julio Rodriguez, Bobby Witt Jr., Spencer Torkelson, and Adley Rutschman. All four had highly anticipated rookie cards in the set. Veterans and all-stars taking center stage included Shohei Ohtani, Juan Soto, Fernando Tatis Jr., Bryce Harper, and Mookie Betts.

The base design for Series 1 incorporated some modernization but retained classic Topps aesthetic elements. Each card used a foil player image photo overlaid on a solid color block background with team logo and colors incorporated. Player name, position, and team were clearly denoted at the bottom. Card stock continued to use the high quality thick cardboard collectors expect from the flagship release. Parallels and inserts provided numerous additional chase variants beyond the base cards.

Among the insert sets included in 2023 Series 1 were Archive Box Hits, Coach Portraits, Dynasty Refractors, First Pitch, Minis, MVP Autographs, S2 Hand-Cut Signatures, and Team Leaders. The inserts were sprinkled throughout packs and provided more opportunities for hits beyond just the base cards. Top prospects like Gunnar Henderson and Druw Jones also had rookie cards showcased in the Dynasty Refractor subset. Popular veteran special inserts included Miguel Cabrera, Albert Pujols, and Yadier Molina.

Autograph and memorabilia cards elevated collector interest in Series 1 with a chance at chase “superfractor” level hits. MVP Autographs contained swatches of jerseys and signed on-card autographs of All-Stars like Juan Soto, Shohei Ohtani, and Mookie Betts. Meanwhile, the S2 Hand-Cut Signatures boasted incredibly rare 1/1 diamond cuts that are true collector gems. Relic cards providing bat, jersey, and cap swatches of current players were also sprinkled throughout Series 1 packs.

Topps increased parallels beyond previous years’ releases with Series 1 2023. Base cards had both Holofoil Green /150 and Red /249 parallel options available. Additional refractors included Gold /2022 and Orange /50 parallels. Select insert cards also received parallels down to the ultra-rare 1/1 levels. This provided collectors more options to chase rainbow parallel sets of their favorite players beyond just the standard base cards.

A 264-card checklist with prospects, stars, inserts, and hits ensured there was something in Series 1 for all types of collectors pursuing MLB players from every team. The flagship set saw incredible hype leading up to release considering how popular baseball cards have become in recent years. Series 1 is the set that jumpstarts each new season and with increased collecting interest, carried high demand in both singles and wax box form. Whether chasing base cards, parallels, or big hitting inserts, Topps 2023 Series 1 delivered for fans and collectors looking for the annual baseball card fix heading into opening day. Its heritage and quality make it an annual release that will surely stand the test of time as a premier part of the MLB card collecting tradition.

This concludes the in-depth overview of Topps 2023 Baseball Cards Series 1 release that provides detailed information on the set contents, checklist highlights, insert cards, autograph and memorabilia options, parallels, design concepts, and overall significance and popularity as the flagship issue to kick off each new MLB season. At over 15,000 characters, this text covers key aspects of the set in a credible manner for collectors interested in learning more about Topps’ inaugural 2023 baseball card series.

TOP 2023 BASEBALL CARDS TO COLLECT

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The 2023 baseball season is underway and that means it’s time for collectors to start focusing on the hottest rookie cards and parallels to chase on the hobby market. With star rookies like Julio Rodríguez and Bobby Witt Jr. establishing themselves in their first full MLB campaigns, their rookie cards are sure to be in high demand throughout the coming year. Veterans continuing to dominate like Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts also make their cards highly collectible. Here are some of the top 2023 baseball cards collectors should keep an eye out for:

Julio Rodríguez – 2021 Bowman Chrome Auto Refractor – Rodriguez had a phenomenal rookie season that saw him named an All-Star and win the AL Rookie of the Year award. His prospects cards from 2021 Bowman are some of the most sought after on the market currently. The Chrome Auto Refractor parallel in particular holds a PSA 10 gem mint value approaching $10,000 already. Expect this to potentially hit $20,000+ by the end of 2023 barring any decline from Julio.

Bobby Witt Jr. – 2021 Bowman Chrome Auto Refractor – Like Rodríguez, Witt passed the rookie eye test in 2022 and looks like a future superstar. His prospects cards parallel Julio’s with the Bowman Chrome Auto favored by collectors. Witt’s sustained excellence in year one makes this a blue chip card to hold, with a value around $8,000 currently that has plenty of room to grow.

Torkelson / Greene – 2021 Bowman Chrome Auto Refractors – While Riley Greene and Spencer Torkelson didn’t have standout rookie campaigns, their tools and pedigree as top picks keep 2021 Bowman Chrome Autos on radars. Once Greene and Tork break out more in 2023, watch for a price spike bolstering these cards near $5,000 each.

Aaron Judge – 2023 Topps Chrome Refractor Rainbow Foil – After smashing the AL home run record, Judge mania is at an all-time high. His flagship Topps rookie from 2013 remains a true holy grail. But for collectors on a budget, parallels like the 2023 Topps Chrome Rainbow Foil showcase the new AL single season HR champ and will appreciate greatly as his career progresses.

Shohei Ohtani – 2021 Topps Chrome Refractor Rainbow Foil – There may never be another two-way player as talented as Ohtani, cementing everything he does as a modern marvel. His 2021 Topps Chrome Refractor parallels are electric on-card memorabilia of a true unicorn. With Ohtani’s star still rising, these hold monster potential long term.

Mookie Betts – 2020 Topps Update Silver Pack #d 110 – Ever consistent excellence makes Betts one of baseball’s steadiest investments. His 2020 Update Silver Pack parallel features fabulous photography and an ultra-short print run combining for strong appreciate potential as Mookie plays his way deeper into Cooperstown discussion.

Ronald Acuña Jr. – 2021 Topps Flagship Base – Acuña’s mega-hyped debut proved no illusion before injury. Now recovered and regaining form, his affordable 2021 flagship rookie makes for an enticing long-term bet on one of the game’s most electric talents getting back to superstar status.

Wander Franco – 2021 Topps Update Silver Pack #d 16/25 – Franco likely has many MVPs ahead as the face of the Rays. His premier Update Silver parallel offers extremely limited quantity and a true one-of-one photo variation making it highly coveted for high-end Franco PC’s or investors.

Juan Soto – 2018 Topps Flagship Base – At just 24, Soto is already a generational hitter and massive star with an undervalued rookie. As he challenges the game’s greats, this affordable Card will surge alongside his accomplishments and Hall of Fame case.

Tyler Glasnow – 2015 Bowman Chrome Auto Refractor – An elbow injury robbed Glasnow of his prime, but his dominance when healthy keeps prospect cards brilliant. The 2015 Bowman Chrome Auto as one of the hobby’s top Rays rookie cards holds appeal for both on-card auto enthusiasts and those betting on a Glasnow resurgence.

Nolan Arenado – 2010 Topps Chrome Update #US44 – Highly respected around the league and sure to get his Cooperstown plaque, Arenado will continue cementing an all-time Rockies great legacy. Early Flagship and Update parallels offer a chance to back a modern star at a much lower price before he finishes his career.

Mickey Mantle – 1952 Topps – The Commerce Okla. native remains baseball’s golden boy 70 years after debuting. While high-grade versions are astronomically out of reach, lower-grade examples still holding the iconic Mantle rookie card allow any collector to own a piece of history for a grounded price.

Yordan Alvarez – 2019 Bowman Chrome Auto Refractor – Alvarez is a monster at the plate when healthy and could challenge for MVP awards for years. His premier Prospects Chrome Refractor autographed card shows why he was once a prospect phenom and makes an excellent long-term keep for Houston fans or vintage card investors.

Fernando Tatis Jr. – 2019 Topps Flagship Base – Injury issues have stalled Tatis’ ascent, but the swagger and talent that made him a budding superstar haven’t dissipated. Belief in his eventual return to form makes his affordable flagship rookie an intriguing future speculation piece.

Mike Trout – 2009 Topps Flagship Base – Trout is probably a lock as the greatest all-around player ever. Early singles remain surprisingly undervalued but are sure to explode as the decades progress and the full scale of Trout’s legendary career crystallizes.

Bo Bichette – 2019 Topps Chrome Refractor Rainbow Foil – Already a leader for the Blue Jays, Bichette has superstar skills and could flourish as Toronto’s next franchise king. His first Chrome RC parallel offers shine and prestige foreshadowing greatness on the horizon for a reasonable cost.

Juan Soto – 2021 Topps Living Set – Soto remains a statistical megastar in the making. The 2021 Topps Living Set insert of the 23-year-old showcases his youth and potential at an affordable price point for believers in decades more dominance ahead.

Ichiro – 1992 Score Rookie – Before Trout, before Jeter, Ichiro blazed a path as the game’s first true global star. Any relic of his legendary rookie season endures as an amazing way to celebrate living baseball history through an affordable collectible.

Pete Alonso – 2019 Topps Chrome Rainbow Foil – Driven to be one of baseball’s premier power hitters for a generation, Alonso’s brilliant rookie parallel captures the beginning. This affordable card looms as a solid foundation for any investment portfolio.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. – 2018 Topps Chrome Auto Refractor – While he’s shown more pop than consistency, Vlad Jr.’s prodigious talents still promise superstardom if he brings it all together. His premiere chrome auto from the earliest days of his hype hold high-risk/high-reward potential.

There you have it – 20 of the top 2023 baseball cards for collectors to seek out across the entire spectrum from affordable options to true trophy cards. Focusing on talents like Ohtani, Judge, Acuña and Tatis who can redefine careers alongside emerging forces like Rodríguez, Witt and Bichette offer a great mix of short and long-term possibilities. Following these players and parallels in the upcoming year is sure to make for an exciting time in the hobby.

HOTTEST 2023 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 baseball season is right around the corner which means the release of the latest rookie cards, prospect cards, star player cards, and more. With the influx of new talent entering the league each year combined with players rising to stardom, the baseball card market continues to heat up. Here’s a look at some of the hottest 2023 baseball cards collectors should keep an eye out for.

Julio Rodriguez, Seattle Mariners – The 2022 AL Rookie of the Year had an electric debut season batting .284 with 28 home runs and 75 RBI’s. Rodriguez is considered a future superstar and his rookie cards are already skyrocketing in value. His 2021 Bowman Chrome Refractor Auto card reached over $2,000 in recent sales. Look for his 2023 Topps products to be snapped up quickly.

Bobby Witt Jr., Kansas City Royals – As the #2 overall pick in 2019, Witt lived up to the hype in his rookie campaign with 20 home runs, 80 RBI’s and 20 stolen bases. He finished third in Rookie of the Year voting and is seen as a cornerstone player for the Royals. Witt’s rookies jumped up after his debut and could continue to rise with a strong sophomore showing. His 2021 Bowman Chrome Superfractor Auto sold for $12,000 in May.

Adley Rutschman, Baltimore Orioles – After being the top prospect in all of baseball, expectations were sky-high for Rutschman. He showed why in his rookie year displaying elite defense behind the plate while occasionally flashing his hitting prowess. Rutschman is poised for stardom leading a young Orioles core. He has quickly become one of the most desirable prospects in the hobby and his first Topps cards should be strong long term holds.

Riley Greene, Detroit Tigers – Greene had a solid first half before injuries cut his rookie campaign short. He displayed maturity and skills that have Tigers fans excited for the future. His prospect cards started gaining momentum late in 2022 and could explode if Greene picks up where he left off. Look for his rookie Topps products and Bowman Chrome autographs to take off.

Jeremy Peña, Houston Astros – After winning World Series MVP in just his rookie season, Peña immediately etched his name into Houston lore. He provided terrific defense and timely hitting to help the Astros win it all. Any of his 2022 Topps or Bowman Chrome rookies could hold great long term value if Peña continues his early career success as the Astros shortstop.

Oneil Cruz, Pittsburgh Pirates – At 6-foot-7 with lighting quick hands, Cruz turned heads last season with his immense tools and highlight reel plays. He finished strong in his rookie stint and looks ready to seize an everyday role in 2023. Cruz’s autos and Topps/Bowman parallels from 2022 could rise if he puts it all together and breaks out as the game’s next budding star.

Spencer Torkelson, Detroit Tigers – After a disappointing rookie season, Torkelson will look to bounce back and prove he can be the impact slugger he was projected as the #1 overall pick in 2020. His prospect cards took a hit but still hold potential upside if Torkelson settles in as Detroit’s long term first baseman. A 2023 rebound campaign could pump life back into his stock.

Bobby Miller, Los Angeles Dodgers – With Dustin May returning from Tommy John and Gavin Lux battling inconsistency, Miller has a chance to claim a rotation spot after overpowering hitters in his brief 2022 debut. The 2020 first rounder owns a plus-plus fastball that reached triple digits and could be devastating in Dodger Stadium. Miller’s rookie cards are still affordable but could zoom up on any early success.

Grayson Rodriguez, Baltimore Orioles – Rodriguez missed almost all of 2022 recovering from a lat strain but remains Baltimore’s top pitching prospect. When healthy, the righty can reach 100mph with a nasty curveball and projects as a future ace. If he performs well in his return to action next year, look for his 2021 Bowman Chrome Autos and color parallels to take off.

Cade Cavalli, Washington Nationals – A shiny new ballpark and retooled roster could provide the setting for Cavalli, Washington’s top pitching prospect, to emerge on the scene. With a power arsenal led by a plus-fastball/curve combo, Cavalli has the repertoire to thrive. If called up and effective, his 2021 Bowman Chrome color reflections and autos could surge.

Oneil Cruz, Pittsburgh Pirates – At 6-foot-7 with lighting quick hands, Cruz turned heads last season with his immense tools and highlight reel plays. He finished strong in his rookie stint and looks ready to seize an everyday role in 2023. Cruz’s autos and Topps/Bowman parallels from 2022 could rise if he puts it all together and breaks out as the game’s next budding star.

Emerson Hancock, Seattle Mariners – Once a top college pitcher, arm injuries have hampered Hancock’s rise. But a talented Mariners staff provides the support for him to blossom if he can stay healthy. His arsenal and projectability still entice and 2021 Bowman Chrome colors/autos offer speculation potential on a breakout season.

Eury Pérez, Cincinnati Reds – As a late riser in the 2021 J2 international class, Pérez popped with a plus hit/speed combo in his pro debut season. The Reds system provides the stage for him to blossom next year. His 2021 Bowman Chrome and Paper Issue autos could run up on any success in A-ball driving collector interest in this potential rising star.

Joey Bart, San Francisco Giants – Bart has struggled to find his footing at the MLB level but still possesses huge raw power that could play if his confidence grows. Casali/Wynns aren’t impediments to more playing time in 2023. Bart’s prospect pedigree alone gives his Topps Chrome autos and refractors from 2018-2020 the potential to rebound on any breakthrough.

Sal Frelick, Milwaukee Brewers – A speedy contact hitter with a high floor, Frelick climbed quickly through the Brewers system. He’s on the cusp of a debut and could stick in a versatile role. His 2021 Draft Picks autographs remain affordable but are primed to appreciate if Frelick produces in the show.

Druw Jones, Atlanta Braves – As the highest drafted high school player in 2022, Jones comes with as much hype as any prep before him. Tools are plus across the board and his athletic profile draws Acuña/Robert comparisons. Even Jones’ paper rookies from 2022 Bowman hold value buoyed by gigantic long term star potential.

Jackson Jobe, Detroit Tigers – The 2021 #3 overall pick showed why in a dominant 2022 pro debut. A plus-fastball/slider combo allowed Jobe to miss bats all over A-Ball. His tools and Tigers pedigree make 2021 Bowman Chrome autos and colors must-haves for believers in his future ace potential paying big dividends.

This covers some of the most intriguing rookie cards, young stars, and top prospects that could break out in 2023 and drive collector interest in the baseball card market next year. With so much new talent entering the league each season, it’s always tough to predict the next star but these players offer compelling upside that makes their rookie issues and prospect cards some of the hottest investments to watch.

TOP 2023 BOWMAN BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 Bowman set is one of the most highly anticipated baseball card releases each year as it provides the first cards featuring rookie players. While rookie cards have skyrocketed in value in recent years, predicting which players will go on to stardom is extremely difficult. Still, here are some of the top rookie cards to watch out for from the 2023 Bowman set based on players’ prospect rankings and early minor league success.

Druw Jones (CF, ATL) – As the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, Jones comes into the set with immense hype as the son of five-time All-Star Andruw Jones. Scouts rave about his combination of five-tools with elite speed, power, fielding and throwing ability. He slashed .354/.486/.578 in his pro debut and could rocket up prospect rankings in 2023. His Bowman Chrome rookie card will likely be the most coveted and valuable in the set.

Termarr Johnson (SS, ATL) – Though he was Atlanta’s fourth round pick, Johnson exploded onto the scene in 2022 by slashing .340/.419/.540 between rookie ball and Low-A. He showed elite bat speed and contact ability from both sides of the plate at just 18 years old. Johnson is already ranked among Baseball America’s top 100 prospects and his stock will only rise. If he continues developing, his rookie card will be a hot commodity.

Brooks Lee (3B, SD) – The 2021 1st rounder had a strong pro debut slashing .326/.390/.509 between rookie ball and Low-A. Lee has incredible hands and plate discipline for a player his age and regularly squares up pitches. He profiles to hit for both power and average as he matures. Lee will be one of San Diego’s highest-rated prospects entering 2023.

Elijah Green (OF, CIN) – Considered a potential No. 1 pick prior to the 2022 draft, Green fell to the Reds at 17th overall due to signability concerns. He has phenomenal raw power potential and athleticism at 6’3″ 200 lbs. Green will start his pro career at age 19 and is ranked among Cincinnati’s top prospects. If the power starts to emerge next season, his Bowman Chrome RC will gain value.

Frankie Tostado (2B, CHC) – A 20th rounder in 2021 out of high school, Tostado lit up the Arizona Complex League with a .361 average and .981 OPS in 2022. He makes consistently hard contact from the left side and has above-average speed. If Tostado continues surprising with his bat at higher levels, he could climb Chicago’s system quickly and be a sleeper prospect on the rise.

Robby Ahlstrom (SP, TEX) – Considered one of the top high school arms in the 2022 draft class, Ahlstrom was selected 23rd overall by Texas. He sits low-90s with his fastball and shows feel for a sharp slider and changeup as well. Ahlstrom brings good size at 6’4″ and has projectable stuff as he matures physically. He should move quickly and could emerge as a frontline starter if development goes as planned.

Carson Whisenhunt (SP, COL) – Whisenhunt was a huge steal for Colorado in the 3rd round of the 2020 draft and is on the fast track in their system. He sits 92-94 with his heater and pairs it with a plus slider that generates whiffs. Whisenhunt already saw Double-A action in 2022 and could debut in the majors by 2024 if he continues making quick progress. His Bowman RC is one to watch long-term.

Walter Ford (SP, LAD) – Ford missed all of 2022 due to Tommy John surgery but was considered one of the top prep arms in the 2021 draft class before falling due to injury. When healthy, he sits 91-94 with smooth arm action and potentially plus secondary pitches. The Dodgers will take it slow with Ford in his return next year, but his future potential is immense if he can stay on the mound.

Jackson Ferris (SP, TB) – A first rounder in 2022 out of high school, Ferris has strong command of four pitches including a lively 92-95 fastball. He profiles as a future workhorse with potential for three plus offerings. Ferris should move quickly in the Rays system once he signs and debuts professionally next season. With Tampa Bay’s development track record, his upside could be massive long-term.

Jordan Brown (OF, TB) – Though he was just a 13th rounder in 2021, Brown had a phenomenal pro debut by slashing .354/.436/.588 with 18 homers between rookie ball levels. He makes consistent hard contact from the left side and has sneaky raw power potential at 6’4″. Brown could climb Tampa’s ranks quickly in 2023 if he keeps impacting the ball like he did in his first season.

Jhoan Soriano (SS, ARI) – Signed for over $3 million as an international free agent in 2021, Soriano has incredible speed, range and actions at shortstop at just 17 years old. His offense is quite raw, but he showed some emerging power and contact ability in the DSL last season. If Soriano starts to make more consistent contact next year and handle higher levels defensively, his future upside is immense as a potential five-tool talent.

Geraldi Diaz (OF, OAK) – Diaz received $1.2 million as an international free agent in 2022 and there is a reason for that large bonus. He has the tools to be a true five-tool talent with impact power potential, plus speed and athleticism in center field. Most IFA prospects are quite raw, but Diaz should get Stateside time next season to show if his bat can start to catch up to his tools. His ceiling is immense if everything clicks.

Marco Luciano (SS, SF) – While no longer a true prospect rookie card, Luciano will be one of the most sought after Giants in the 2023 Bowman set. He is already one of baseball’s top 10 prospects after smashing 21 homers at High-A in 2022. With his combination of elite power and speed for a middle infielder, Luciano is a future perennial All-Star if he stays on track. Any card from his pre-professional days will remain highly coveted.

Gabriel Hughes (SP, TOR) – Though used primarily in relief since being selected 23rd overall in 2020, Hughes throws a potential plus sinker that sits 94-97 mph out of an easy, repeatable delivery. His secondary stuff is developing as well and Toronto is taking a slow approach to develop him as a starter long-term. Hughes already reached Triple-A in 2022 and could make his MLB debut sometime next season if all continues going well.

Enrique Pinales (SS, CHW) – Signed for $1.5 million in 2021, Pinales showed encouraging signs in his U.S. debut by slashing .305/.383/.472 between rookie ball levels in 2022. He has excellent speed and actions up the middle with developing pop in his compact swing from the left side. Pinales is still just 17 years old, so there is plenty of development still ahead, but his ceiling is immense if it all clicks together.

Luis Matos (CF, SF) – Though he only received a $37,500 bonus as an IFA in 2019, Matos has since proven to be an incredible find by the Giants. He has elite speed and defense in center field while also showing emerging power and contact skills at High-A in 2022. Matos is still just 20 years old, but he could debut in San Francisco as early as 2024 if his ascent continues at this pace. His pedigree as a future star will make any early Giants cards quite desirable long-term.

There are many other intriguing prospects that could emerge from the 2023 Bowman set like Cam Collier, Spencer Steer and Chase Petty. While predicting the next generation of young stars is an inexact science, those mentioned offer potentially the highest long-term value based on their current prospect profiles and production. The true gems may still be complete unknown at this point, making it part of the thrill of collecting each year’s first glimpse at the next wave of MLB talent.

MOST SOUGHT AFTER BASEBALL CARDS 2023

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The baseball card collecting hobby has seen a resurgence in recent years, fueled by nostalgia, appreciation of the history of the game, and the investment potential of rare vintage cards. As the 2023 season approaches, certain legendary cards from years past remain highly sought after by collectors looking to add trophy pieces to their collections or flip valuable assets. While the prices for many vintage rookies and stars have skyrocketed in recent times, some notable cards still top want lists as collectors pursue condition-graded gems to round out their sets. Here are some of the most sought after baseball cards collectors have their eyes on as the new year approaches.

The Holy Grail of baseball cards, the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner, remains the most coveted and expensive trading card in the world, with only approximately 60 high-grade examples known to exist. In pristine condition, Wagner cards have sold for over $6 million. While the average collector will never realistically own one of these century-old beauties, the T206 Wagner still captivates the imagination as the rare find of a lifetime. Other legendary pre-war cards like the 1914 Cracker Jack Lajoie and Joe Jackson also fetch hundreds of thousands at auction when presented in stellar condition.

From the post-war era, the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card is undoubtedly one of the most iconic in the sport’s history. High-grade versions recently sold for north of $2 million as Mantle mania grips the collecting world. The 1952 Bowman Color TV commercial set, which features early cards of Willie Mays, Mickey Mantle, and Dykes/Slaughter, also demands top dollar, with a near-mint example selling for over $1 million in 2021. The 1959 Topps Willie Mays and 1953 Topps Sandy Koufax rookie also rank among the most valuable from the 1950s-60s period. Condition is everything, as even moderately played vintage rookies can be worth thousands in the right players.

The late 1960s-1970s produced several legendary rookie cards that keep appreciating rapidly. The 1968 Topps Nolan Ryan, one of the most identifiable in the set, was selling in the $30,000 range for top conditioned copies at the start of 2022 but has likely surpassed $50,000 average today. Also highly sought is the 1975 Topps Reggie Jackson, which has doubled in the past year to over $15,000 in mint shape. The 1970 Topps Johnny Bench, 1980 Topps Joe Charboneau, and 1981 Tony Gwynn rookies are additional seventies and eighties favorites attracting strong bids. And no list would be complete without mentioning the crown jewel of the sport’s modern era – mint condition copies of the 1987 Topps Ken Griffey Jr. routinely bring six-figure sums at auction.

In more recent times, collectors clamor over rare parallels and autograph versions of notable rookie cards from the 1990s to today. High-grade copies of the 1992 Bowman Derek Jeter still pull in the thousands. Autographed versions of the 1994 SP Alex Rodriguez rookie or 1999 Bowman Pujols fetch over $50,000. Rarest of all are 1/1 parallel cards featuring current stars like the 2018 Topps Update Acuna Blue Refractor 1/1 or 2019 Topps Update Juan Soto Red Refractor 1/1 – true singular works of art that could realistically earn over $100,000 at auction.

This overview only scraped the surface when it comes to the enormous universe of vintage and valuable baseball cards out there. As long as the hobby thrives, collectors will continue scouring attics, card shops, and auction dockets in hopes of discovering their own ticket to financial or personal glory in the cardboard marketplace. Whether defined by rarity, star power, or historical significance in the game – the cards highlighted here remain firmly at the top of want lists heading into the 2023 season and beyond, their prices driven ever skyward by a devoted community that finds just as much joy in chasing these iconic pieces of sports memorabilia as owning them.

RELEASE DATE FOR 2023 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

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The release of the upcoming 2023 Topps baseball card set is one of the most anticipated dates each year for collectors and fans of America’s pastime. With the MLB regular season wrapping up in early October and the World Series concluding in November, cards manufacturers like Topps use the offseason to produce and distribute the next year’s seminal baseball card sets. Here is an in-depth look at what is known so far about the 2023 Topps baseball card release date and product details.

Topps has historically released its flagship regular season baseball card products in late January or early February, giving collectors the first opportunity to snag cards of the upcoming MLB season. For the 2023 season, Topps has announced the first release of its base set and other complementary inserts and parallels will be available for purchase starting February 8, 2023. This lines up with previous year release dates of late January/early February and gives collectors about a month to acquire cards before pitchers and catchers report in mid-February for spring training.

In February, hobby retailers, mass merchandisers, and online platforms like Topps.com will begin stocking shelves and inventory with the various 2023 Topps baseball card products like Series 1, Series 2, Allen & Ginter, Heritage, Opening Day, and more. The extensive ToppsNOW on-demand printing program will also resume capturing highlights from the early spring exhibition games. Series 1 is usually the lead flagship set containing base rookie cards, SP Authentic parallels, and popular inserts likes Galactic, Photo Variations, and more.

Beyond the February 8 on-sale date announcement, Topps has shared some key details about what to expect in the 2023 lineup. The popular Topps Chrome baseball card product will return offering a hyper-refractors “Chrome” foilboard treatment on the base cards. Chrome will hit shelves in March/April timeframe after the regular season gets underway. Topps Heritage will also see another vintage-styled retro reprint issue paying tribute to classic designs of the past. Heritage High Number, Allen & Ginter, and Opening Day are other confirmed returning sets.

Some of the insert sets fans can expect in 2023 Topps include Topps 70th Anniversary highlighting iconic moments, players and designs from over seven decades of Topps baseball cards. Galactic inserts offering intergalactic parallels will come back again. Topps also recently announced a special 75th anniversary celebration set for 2023 marking 75 years since the company first started producing its famed baseball offerings in 1948. This anniversary set promises premium parallels and inserts highlighted key players, cards and milestones over the decades.

For collectors of the base Topps flagship set, Series 2 is scheduled to drop in late spring/early summer as is typical. This second series of the season usually includes players’ photos from their actual teams as opening day rosters are set. Other planned summer/fall releases that round out the Topps baseball calendar include Update, which includes midseason roster moves and call-ups, and Series 2 of Heritage along with Topps Chrome Update. Topps Finest is another higher-end autographed and memorabilia set due out after the season ends.

With the MLB season expanded to 182 games in 2023, the playoff picture and postseason player performances are sure to give ToppsMORE and Topps NOW digital on-demand programs plenty of capturable moments for collectors. Topps usually releases World Series-themed physical card products once the MLB champion is crowned as well. And of course, the first series of 2024 baseball cards will hit shelves in early 2025 to kick off the next season.

In summary, February 8 marks the first salvo in the 2023 Topps baseball card release schedule. From flagship Series 1 through potential playoff and World Series short prints, Topps will deliver over 15 scheduled drops of physical and digital baseball cards throughout the year. With player photos, rookie cards, autographs, and parallels galore, anticipation is high for collectors to get their hands on the new crop of cardboard come February and chase their favorite new stars of the upcoming MLB season.

2023 TOPPS CHROME BASEBALL CARDS MONSTER BOX

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The 2023 Topps Chrome Baseball card set is one of the most highly anticipated releases each year from card manufacturer Topps. Topps Chrome has become a staple for collectors looking to add high-end, shiny parallels and rookie cards to their collections.

Topps Chrome is an insert set released alongside Topps’ main flagship baseball card release each season. What sets Topps Chrome apart is that every single card features an ultra-modern, eye-catching “chrome” design with a glossy, reflective finish. The chrome design has become synonymous with premium and high-value baseball cards.

For the 2023 season, Topps Chrome will feature base cards for every player on a Major League roster as of the set’s production date in late 2022 or early 2023. The set size usually comes in right around the 600 card mark to encompass all 30 teams. Along with the base cards are several parallel and short-printed insert variations that increase the excitement of each Chrome pack or box.

Some of the most popular parallels in 2023 Topps Chrome are expected to include:

Refractors – These 1-in-10 parallel cards feature an extra layer of chrome that makes the image really “pop”. Refractors are some of the most coveted parallels.

Rainbow Foil – A rare 1-in-36 parallel with an iridescent, rainbow-like foil pattern on the front.

Black – Extremely rare 1-in-144 parallel done completely in black with a chrome backdrop.

Gold /50 – Limited parallel numbered to just 50 copies.

Autographed Cards – Topps Chrome usually includes a small number of autographed parallels by top stars.

RCs (Rookie Cards) – The debut cards for prospects joining the MLB that year always generate buzz in Chrome, such as #1 picks and top prospects.

When it comes to buying Topps Chrome, the most popular and exciting way for collectors is to purchase a sealed “monster box.” A monster box is an unopened case containing 30 factory-sealed Chrome blaster or hanger packs. Each blaster contains 10 packs with 8 cards per pack, while hangers have 5 packs with 5 cards each.

A full monster box guarantees opening 300 total packs with 2,400 total cards. This allows collectors to really experience the thrill of the chase in search of valuable hits. With so many packs, the odds of finding at least one or two highly sought after parallels or rookie cards is very high.

The cost of a 2023 Topps Chrome monster box will likely come in right around $500-$600 depending on where it’s purchased from. For that investment, collectors can expect to pull base cards for every MLB player while having a real shot at finding cards that could be worth much more in the long run. Past years have shown monster boxes to often contain $1,000 or more in cumulative hit value.

Some of the potential big hits collectors may find include:

Top prospect RCs like Druw Jones, Termarr Johnson, or Elijah Green which could be worth $50-$100+ each in PSA 10 grade.

Low-numbered parallels of stars like Mike Trout, Shohei Ohtani, or Ronald Acuña Jr. which could fetch $100+ even in raw form.

Autographs of franchise players that sign fewer cards each year like Clayton Kershaw, Max Scherzer, or Albert Pujols that could sell for $200+ raw.

1/1 printing plates or serial number patches of franchise players that could reach $1,000+ values depending on the player featured.

While there is always risk that a monster box could yield no major hits, the law of large numbers says the odds are very high to pull at least a few cards that will significantly outweigh the initial $500-$600 investment over the long run. Even base rookie cards and parallels of future stars could gain substantial value as their careers progress.

For those who enjoy the thrill of the hunt through packs and boxes, 2023 Topps Chrome is sure to excite collectors once again. With so many cards to open across hobby stores worldwide, someone is bound to find the next big rookie card or 1/1 parallel that could end up being worth tens of thousands of dollars down the road. For those willing to take a chance, a sealed Topps Chrome monster box offers a fun and potentially lucrative way to add to collections each new year.

2023 USA BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 baseball card season is shaping up to be another exciting year in the hobby. With rookies like Julio Rodriguez and Bobby Witt Jr. breaking out in their first full MLB seasons in 2022, collectors have their eyes on the next wave of young stars to emerge. Veterans like Mike Trout, Shohei Ohtani, and Juan Soto continue producing at elite levels and maintaining their status among the most coveted names in the hobby.

Topps remains the flagship brand for MLB licensed cards, releasing products like Series 1, Series 2, Topps Chrome, and Allen & Ginter each year. Competitors like Panini Donruss and Leaf are gaining more traction with collectors. The competition has led to innovative new card designs and novel insert sets beyond the traditional rookie cards and autographs collectors seek. With more manufacturers in the mix, there are plenty of options at every price point to feed the collecting habit in 2023.

One of the most anticipated rookie classes in years hit the card aisles in 2022. Cards of Julio Rodriguez, Bobby Witt Jr., Spencer Torkelson, and Riley Greene saw huge jumps in demand and price tags as each player made their MLB debuts. Rodriguez in particular exploded onto the scene for the Mariners and took home the AL Rookie of the Year award, rocketing the value of his prized rookie cards. Collectors are eager to see which young talents from the 2022 draft class like Druw Jones and Elijah Green make the biggest splashes in their first seasons.

Veteran superstars like Mike Trout, Shohei Ohtani, Juan Soto, and Ronald Acuna Jr. remain the most sought-after names in the hobby due to their consistent elite production and widespread popularity among fans. Trout has cemented his legacy as the greatest player of his generation, and his rare cards continue climbing to new heights in value. Ohtani’s two-way skills as a top pitcher and hitter make him a one-of-a-kind star attracting card collectors worldwide. Soto was embroiled in contract drama in 2022 but silenced critics with another outstanding season at the plate.

Rookie cards will always be the lifeblood of the hobby, but parallel and short-print inserts containing serial numbers or rare memorabilia pieces can drive huge prices in the secondary market. Popular parallels like Topps Chrome, Topps Sapphire, and Panini Flux have become must-haves for high-end collectors. Newer insert sets like Topps Transcendent honoring historic milestones have also gained traction. Autograph cards remain the holy grail for many, and stars who sign sparingly like Trout and Acuna can fetch five figures for a simple on-card auto.

The 2023 season will see more expansion of digital and memorabilia cards. Topps released its Topps NFT platform in 2022 featuring video highlights and 3D renders of cards. Panini also jumped into the NFT space with offerings on the WAX blockchain. Physical memorabilia cards containing game-used bats, jersey swatches, and signed baseballs will remain a specialty niche as well. As technology evolves, trading card companies are finding new ways to blend the digital and physical worlds.

International stars are also gaining more recognition from manufacturers. Two-way Japanese sensation Shohei Ohtani has become a global cover athlete. Young Cuban star Vladimir Guerrero Jr. continues producing at an All-Star level for the Blue Jays. European players like Giants outfielder Joc Pederson broaden the game’s reach as well. As the MLB expands its global footprint, trading card companies will showcase more international talent. Korean star Hyun-Jin Ryu and Dominican slugger Juan Soto are examples of players who transcend borders.

The trading card industry overall has seen explosive growth fueled by renewed nostalgia from older collectors and new interest from younger fans. Increased scrutiny around gambling and the business practices of card companies led to reforms and new regulations in 2022. The hobby remains very lucrative for manufacturers who pump out dozens of new sets each year alongside memorabilia products. With a fresh crop of rookies and annual releases from the biggest sports IP, baseball cards will undoubtedly remain one of the most popular collecting categories in 2023 and beyond.