Tag Archives: 2023

2023 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS ROOKIES

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The 2023 Topps baseball card set is one of the most anticipated releases each year as it provides collectors their first cards of the game’s top rookie players. While performance on the field ultimately determines which rookies emerge as the biggest stars, the rookie cards found in Series 1 are often some of the most valuable cards in a given year. With another exciting rookie class coming up in 2023, here are some of the top rookies to watch for when the new Topps cards are released.

Adley Rutschman – Baltimore Orioles (C): As the top prospect in baseball, Rutschman made his MLB debut in 2022 and quickly established himself as the future star catcher in Baltimore. His prospect pedigree and early MLB success make his rookie card a lock to be one of the most sought after in the set. Rutschman hit .254 with 5 home runs in 50 games in 2022 and will be a centerpiece player for the Orioles moving forward.

Bobby Witt Jr. – Kansas City Royals (SS): The number two overall pick in 2019, Witt wasted no time reaching the majors in 2022 and had a strong rookie campaign. He hit .256 with 20 home runs and stole 30 bases, showing all five tools. As the highest drafted position player to debut in 2022, Witt’s rookie card will be a popular one for Royals collectors and flippers alike.

Spencer Torkelson – Detroit Tigers (1B): After being taken first overall in 2020, Torkelson also made his MLB debut in 2022. He struggled at the plate, hitting just .197, but his pedigree and potential keep his rookie card highly valuable. Torkelson has a beautiful left-handed swing and hit 38 home runs across two minor league levels in 2021. With adjustments, he could become the masher the Tigers hope for.

Julio Rodriguez – Seattle Mariners (OF): Rodriguez exploded onto the scene in 2022 with a huge second half, finishing third in AL Rookie of the Year voting. He hit .284 with 28 home runs and 25 stolen bases, displaying five-tool ability. At just 21 years old, Rodriguez looks like a budding superstar and his rookie card will be one of the most sought after cards in the set due to his early success.

Oneil Cruz – Pittsburgh Pirates (SS): Standing an incredible 6-foot-7, Cruz is a physical specimen with huge raw power. He hit .233 in 35 games after debuting late in 2022 but showed why he has such tantalizing upside by hitting 4 homers. His enormous frame generating power from the left side is must-see TV. Cruz may need more development, but his rookie card will be popular due to his immense tools.

Seiya Suzuki – Chicago Cubs (OF): Arguably the biggest international signing of 2022, Suzuki came over from Japan and hit .262 with 14 home runs in his rookie season. While his production tapered off in the second half, Suzuki has a beautiful left-handed swing and should be a consistent middle-of-the-order bat for the Cubs. His international pedigree adds intrigue to his rookie card.

Matt Brash – Seattle Mariners (SP): Acquired by Seattle in a trade, Brash made a strong MLB debut by posting a 3.19 ERA in 12 starts down the stretch. His four-pitch mix is headlined by a mid-90s fastball and hard slider, giving him closer-like stuff as a starter. At just 23 years old, Brash has ace potential and the Mariners will likely give him a rotation spot in 2023.

Griffin Jax – Minnesota Twins (SP): Jax finally made his MLB debut in 2022 at age 27 after being drafted in 2016. He showed why he was worth the wait by posting a 3.47 ERA in 13 starts. Jax has a power four-pitch mix and his late breakout adds to the intrigue in his rookie card. As a homegrown Twins prospect, he’ll have plenty of collector interest as well.

Michael Harris II – Atlanta Braves (OF): Harris skipped over Double-A entirely and hit .297 with 19 home runs in just 111 games as a 21-year-old rookie. He immediately became an everyday player in a loaded Braves outfield and looks like a future star. Harris may end up being one of the steals of the 2023 rookie class based on his early success and potential.

Oneil Cruz and Adley Rutschman appear to be the favorites to have the most valuable rookie cards in the 2023 Topps set based on their prospect pedigree and MLB success so far. Breakout seasons from the likes of Torkelson, Brash or Harris could vault their rookies to the top of collector want lists as well. With another exciting rookie class on the horizon, the 2023 Topps set is primed to include many valuable rookie cards that could become long-term keepers in collections.

TOPPS OPENING DAY BASEBALL CARDS 2023

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Topps is gearing up to release their highly anticipated 2023 Opening Day Baseball card set in late February or early March, continuing their long run as the official MLB trading card license holder. The Opening Day set has become a modern classic for baseball card collectors looking to get their hands on the first cardboard renditions of players for the new season.

This year’s edition is sure to be another highly sought after release from Topps, with collectors eagerly awaiting to see who makes the cut for the base card checklist and which rookie phenoms receive coveted rookie cards after strong showings in 2022. We’ve compiled everything you need to know about the upcoming Topps 2023 Opening Day release below.

Base Card Checklist and Parallels

Topps usually includes around 300 players on the base card checklist for their Opening Day set each year. This provides a solid sampling of the biggest names and best performers from both the American and National Leagues. Rosters will likely be finalized based on how the 2022 season concluded. Expect household names like Shohei Ohtani, Aaron Judge, Mookie Betts, and Fernando Tatis Jr. to anchor the checklist.

In addition to the base parallel, Topps also produces a variety of parallels and short printed cards to chase. Recent Opening Day sets have included Sapphire, Gold, Rainbow Foil, Atomic Refractors, and Gold Label parallels. Topps also usually sneaks in around 10 Autograph or Memorabilia cards that are extremely difficult to pull. Overall print runs range from 10,000-20,000 cards per parallel type and player.

Rookie Cards and Prospect Autographs

Every year, the Topps Opening Day release provides collectors their first glimpse at the official Topps rookie cards for the most hyped young players who broke into the majors the previous season. Names like Julio Rodriguez, Bobby Witt Jr., and Spencer Strider from the 2022 rookie class are sure to be hot ticket pulls.

Topps also uses Opening Day as an opportunity to showcase some of the best prospects still in the minor leagues with enticing autograph and memorabilia cards. Cards featuring prospects like Adley Rutschman, Grayson Rodriguez, and Oneil Cruz before they made their MLB debuts hold significant long term value for collectors. These hard signed, on-card autographs from top prospects are rarely over 5000 copies.

Baseball Card Design and Photo Quality

Opening Day cards have come to feature some of the most beautifully designed and highest quality photography in the entire baseball card industry each year. Topps pulls out all the stops to create elegant yet classic looking cards worthy of one of the first major card releases of the new season.

Elements like foilStamp logos, custom designed borders highlighting each player’s team, vivid action shots or crisp portraits all come together in a cohesive visual package every year. Topps has also taken steps in recent years to use higher resolution photography fit for the modern collector. Flawless scans coupled with state-of-the-art color correction make each image pop off the card.

Initial Release and Hobby Box Contents

When Topps first unleashes the 2023 Opening Day set on the marketplace, collectors can expect a robust release with several associated products other than just loose packs and boxes. Hobby boxes which usually retail between $85-$100 contain either 12 or 24 packs with each pack carrying around 5-7 cards. Inserts and parallels are dispersed throughout the box at designated ratios.

Additional release options may include blaster boxes, fat packs, value packs, memorable moments packs highlighting big plays from the previous season, and exclusive tradeable Team Boxes for each MLB franchise containing guaranteed hits and parallels. Opening Day Retail Mega boxes are also a popular way to enjoy ripping packs without breaking the bank.

Resale Market and Long Term Value

In the weeks and months following an initial surge after the release date as collectors rip packs feverishly, the resale market for particularly rare and desirable 2023 Topps Opening Day cards heat up. Rookie autographs, star memorabilia relics, and low numbered parallels usually command the highest prices on the secondary market. Even common base cards from the set hold value as interest and demand outlasts the initial print run.

Ten to twenty years from now, a well-preserved collection of Topps 2023 Opening Day cards could provide an interesting snapshot from that period. Early cards of burgeoning superstars or historically significant performers will likely carry premiums. But the set as a whole holds charm as an accessible doorway for collectors into the yearly ritual of anticipation that Opening Day brings each season.

That covers all the major details collectors need to know about the upcoming premiere release from Topps to kick off the 2023 baseball card season. With intricate designs, a star-studded checklist, and the first looks at high profile rookies, Topps Opening Day is sure to excite the hobby yet again this year. Stay tuned for the official on-sale date in late February or early March to add these modern classics to your collection.

DONRUSS BASEBALL CARDS 2023 VALUE

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Donruss is one of the most iconic and recognizable brands in the trading card industry. Famous for their innovative designs and focus on photography, Donruss baseball cards have been a staple in the hobby since the late 1980s. The 2023 Donruss baseball release is one of the most highly anticipated issues of the year. While retail boxes can be found for around $100, some of the top rookies, stars, and parallels from the 2023 Donruss set are already gaining value in the secondary market. Here is an in-depth look at the 2023 Donruss baseball release and what collectors can expect in terms of long term value.

Perhaps the biggest storylines heading into the 2023 Donruss release are the star rookies that collectors will be hunting. Cardinals’ outfielder Jordan Walker, Mariners’ shortstop Noelvi Marte, and Dodgers’ catcher Diego Cartaya are all considered top prospects and their rookie cards are sure to be in high demand. While base rookies may only fetch $10-20 upon release, graded rookies of top stars can gain exponentially over time. For example, a PSA 10 Mike Trout rookie from 2009 Donruss is now worth over $10,000. The same will likely hold true for the top rookies in the 2023 set if they pan out in the majors. Beyond the rookies, superstar veterans like Shohei Ohtani, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Juan Soto will also have cards that retain value due to their sustained excellence on the field.

In addition to base cards, parallel and autographed rookie cards from the 2023 Donruss release carry the most long term value potential. Low numbered parallels like Gold /50 or Red /10 versions of the top rookie cards could eventually be worth thousands in mint condition. Autographed rookie cards, especially on-card autographs, give collectors a one-of-a-kind piece of memorabilia and history. While these premium cards may cost hundreds straight out of the pack, a pristine example could gain exponentially over the player’s career. For example, a Jordan Walker autograph card numbered to /25 could be a $500 hit now but grow to $5,000+ within 5 years if he lives up to expectations. The same principle applies to other top prospects like Marte and Cartaya.

When it comes to serial numbered parallels and inserts outside of the base set, collectors should pay close attention to popular Donruss designs that have retained value over the years. “Diamond Kings” parallels featuring photo variations are always hot. Serialized patches and autographs from sets like “Diamond Kings” and “The Rookies” insert sets are also great long term holds. Numbered parallels like Green /99, Blue /150 and Red /25 are usually the most sought after for investment potential. Low serial numbered versions of stars paired with prestigious inserts could gain thousands with time. Even base inserts sets like “Diamond Kings” and “The Rookies” featuring stars have shown to hold $50-100 value long term for graded examples.

In terms of product, the most valuable releases from the 2023 Donruss set will be high-end hobby boxes. Products like Jumbo Hobby Boxes (36 packs, 6 hits) and Blaster Boxes (10 packs, 1 hit) are designed for immediate ripping and short term value. While they are fun to open, base cards and most hits from these will have relatively little long term appreciation. On the other hand, low-printed releases like Hobby Jumbo Boxes (24 packs, guaranteed hits/relics/autos), Luxury Suite Boxes (10 packs, 1 hit + extras), and High Tek Boxes (12 packs, 2 hits + extras) are made for long term holding and investment. The combination of rarer hits, serial numbered parallels, and lower print runs make individual cards and sealed boxes from these products more desirable to collectors years down the line.

While retail boxes of 2023 Donruss baseball cards can currently be found for under $100, top rookies, stars, and hard signed/relic cards from the release are already gaining value on the secondary market. With its iconic photography and focus on prospects, the Donruss brand has proven time and again to produce modern cards that hold long term value. For collectors willing to spend a premium now on top rookies, serial numbered parallels, and low-print hobby boxes – the 2023 Donruss baseball release offers plenty of opportunity for appreciation over the next 5-10 years and beyond. As always, it is important to do research, focus on star players, and selectively choose items to hold long term from this highly anticipated issue.

NY METS 2023 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 New York Mets baseball cards are highly anticipated by collectors around the country as the franchise looks to build on a successful 2022 season that saw them return to the playoffs. Led by new owner Steven Cohen, the Mets made several big splashes in free agency and now have high expectations entering next season.

Top Rookies and Prospects

Some of the most sought after cards from the 2023 Mets set will certainly be the rookie cards for the team’s top prospects. Shortstop Francisco Álvarez is widely considered one of the top prospects in all of baseball and should be a cornerstone for the Mets for years to come. Álvarezdestroyed pitching at both Double-A and Triple-A in 2022 and could see significant playing time in New York next season, making his rookie cards extremely valuable.

Another top prospect is outfielder Brett Baty, who also saw time in Triple-A last year after being selected 12th overall in the 2019 draft. Baty hit 20 home runs between Double-A and Triple-A and has terrific power from the left side. His cards will be on the radar of collectors. Right-handed pitcher Max Scherzer is an obvious centerpiece for the Mets, coming off a dominant season where he won the NL Cy Young Award. As a newly signed free agent, his first Mets card is highly sought after.

Star Players and Veterans

In addition to top rookies, collectors will want cards featuring the Mets’ established star players like Pete Alonso, Jeff McNeil, Brandon Nimmo and star acquisitions like Justin Verlander. Alonso has rapidly become one of the faces of the franchise after winning NL Rookie of the Year in 2019 and smashing a franchise record 53 home runs in 2022. His ever-increasing power makes him a fan favorite and his cards very collectible.

McNeil has emerged as a true all-around star, batting over .300 each of the past three seasons while playing excellent defense all over the infield and outfield. Nimmo, meanwhile, gets on base at an elite clip and provides outstanding defense in center field. Verlander joins Scherzer to form a fearsome top of the rotation and his first Mets card will be a hot commodity.

Catcher Tyler Naquin and speedy infielder Luis Guillorme don’t post huge offensive numbers but are beloved by fans and teammates for their gritty styles of play and cards featuring these role players can gain popularity among completists. Veteran relievers like Adam Ottavino and Seth Lugo stabilize the Mets bullpen and their longtime contributions to the franchise make them recognizable to collectors.

Key Sets and Parallels

The standard base set from Topps is always the most widely available but collectors will be on the hunt for coveted parallels and special editions. Chrome, refractor, and negative Parallel Autographs hold premium value. Topps Sapphire will spotlight the Mets biggest stars in blue bordered style and be limited.

Bowman Chrome are beloved for their refractors of top prospects while Heritage brings retro design. Topps Finest offers elegant finishes and Foilboard parallels really pop on the field. Topps Transcendent singles out a single star super short printed like a Rookie AutoParallel 1/1. Elite memorabilia cards from products like Topps Triple Threads, Revolution, and Elite Extra Edition are true trophies.

Autograph cards of any player skyrocket in demand but Franciso Alvarez, Brett Baty, and Jacob DeGrom are sure to raise the most eyebrows. Game used memorabilia cards that feature authentic on field equipment like jerseys, bats or gloves from stars elevate a collection. Rarer 1/1 printing plates prove ultimate bragging rights.

Fan Interest and Resale Potential

With billionaire owner Steve Cohen’s financial commitment, the Mets have drawn newfound nationwide interest as serious World Series contenders. After hosting the All Star Game this summer, they are poised to reach new fans and increase demand in the trading card market from both collectors and investors. Popular players on a winning team consistently gain value year over year.

As long as the Mets sustain success on the field, interest in their cards looks bright. Key rookie cards of top prospects like Álvarez and Baty have legitimate potential to appreciate drastically in price if they blossom into the perennial All Stars they are projected as. Numbered parallels and low print autographs hold value as scarcity increases demand. Overall this promises to be one of the more compelling baseball card releases of 2023.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 2023 ODDS

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Topps baseball cards are some of the most popular and valuable trading cards in the sports collecting universe. Each year, Topps releases dozens of baseball card products with new designs, rookie cards of top prospects, autographed memorabilia cards, and more. Part of the excitement of buying packs or boxes of the latest Topps baseball releases is the chance to find valuable and rare cards. While there is always an element of luck involved, understanding the odds and production numbers can help collectors maximize their chances. Here is an in-depth look at some of the top Topps baseball cards 2023 odds to keep in mind before making your next purchase.

One of the most popular Topps releases each year is the flagship Base Set. For the 2023 Topps Series 1 release, there will be 525 total cards in the base set featuring current major league players, managers, and teams. Common base cards can be found in about 1 out of every 3 packs on average. The odds of pulling an autograph or memorabilia card from a Series 1 pack are much lower at around 1:150 packs. For the extremely rare short prints and variations in the base set, collectors can expect odds of finding one to be around 1:1500 packs or higher.

Another product collectors look forward to each year for potential high-value hits is Topps Chrome. Like the base set, Chrome cards have 525 total that feature different photo and design technology. The printing process is more complex, so Chrome cards have significantly lower odds. Base Chrome cards can still be found fairly often at around 1:6 packs. But autographed cards are at extreme odds of 1:750 packs and memorabilia cards have odds closer to 1:1000 packs or rarer. Short prints and special parallel inserts become virtually impossible to pull at pack odds exceeding 1:5000 or more.

Topps Finest is considered by many to feature the best photography in its luxury foil design. But with only 125 total cards in the set, the odds to pull base paper versions are lower at about 1:15 packs. Autographs are very scarce at 1:1250 packs and memorabilia cards have odds as low as 1:2500 or tougher. Variations and exclusive inserts become astronomically difficult to hit randomly from packs at 1:10,000 or worse odds. Collectors usually must turn to higher priced hobby boxes or case breaks to have any real shot at these rare Finest cards.

Perhaps the most sought-after modern rookie cards each year come from Topps Update Series and Bowman Draft Picks & Prospects. Both sets feature prospects on the cusp of the majors as well as newly drafted players. For Update Series, there are 400 total base cards with odds of about 1:4 packs to complete the set. Autograph cards check in much lower at approximately 1:400 packs and memorabilia cards around 1:800 packs. Similarly, Bowman Draft Picks & Prospects base cards fall at 1:5 packs with autographs at 1:300 packs and memorabilia much tougher to come by around 1:1000 packs. And true 1:1 parallels and variations essentially become white whales at many tens of thousands of packs odds or higher.

While hobby boxes of Topps products guarantee autograph or memorabilia cards, lottery style products make no such guarantees but offer the highest potential reward. Transcendent is one such ultra-premium lottery style set. Containing only 10 total cards, each pack has infinitesimal odds below 1:1 million packs to hit the rawest base card. Autographed card odds start at just 1:150,000 packs and memorabilia/patch cards easily surpass 1:1,000,000 pack odds. Even highly trained breakers have difficulty pulling more than a base card or two from case after case.

Clearly, the odds diminish drastically as insert rarity increases for the biggest names in luxury baseball cards like Topps. The economic principle of supply and demand ensures ultra-rare hits maintain tremendous monetary value. Understanding the production numbers and pack odds is key for informed collectors to maximize their chances within set budget constraints. While there is always an element of pack luck, buying investment packs or boxes of popular high-end Topps baseball releases still provides the best opportunity to land valuable additions for growing collections or lucrative long-term holds. With careful research of 2023 release details like these odds, collectors can feel more prepared when the next wave of Topps baseball cards arrives.

2023 TOPPS BASEBALL INSERT CARDS

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2023 looks to be another exciting year for Topps Baseball insert cards. Insert cards have become hugely popular amongst collectors in recent years as they offer compelling parallel and short printed variations of star players outside of the base checklist. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top insert sets collectors can expect to find in 2023 Topps Series 1, Series 2, and Update baseball packs.

Galaxy – One of Topps’ flagship vintage-styled inserts returns for a new year. The Galaxy parallels feature silver signatures on a black retro graphical background. Past years have featured short prints and serial numbered parallels like /10 to drive collector demand. Spectra and Spectrum are also popular Topps Galaxy parallels showcasing holographic foil with serialized numbering. 1985 and 1967 design tribute variations are common as well. Expect big names like Shohei Ohtani, Juan Soto, and Ronald Acuña Jr. to headline the checklist.

Rainblows – Topps’ highly sought after refractors make a splash again in the Rainbow Foil parallels in 2023. The Rainbow parallels are broken down into colors from Red to Green, with the rare Gold short prints pulling a hefty premium. Getting a full 6-color Rainbow set is a challenge. Players may include Aaron Judge, Mike Trout, and Mookie Betts in this one. Autograph and memorabilia Rainblow variants are also anticipated for die-hard collectors.

Star Wars – The collaboration between Topps and Star Wars will surely captivate collectors young and old in 2023. Base, parallel, and character insert cards have been massively popular depicting Topps players in Star Wars scenes and costumes. Expect new planetary backdrops and characters to feature this year along with low serial numbered parallels. Cameos from Luke, Han, Leia, and Darth Vader are standard while shorter printed images from Obi-Wan, Chewbacca and more may surface. Players like Bryce Harper, Pete Alonso, and Gerrit Cole usually lead the set.

Galaxy of Stars – Depicting MLB stars in intergalactic scenes within the same vintage graphical motif as Galaxy is the popular Galaxy of Stars set. Short prints and parallel variations on card fronts of legendary players from years past and current superstars alike make for a fun insert chase. Topps does a great job mixing eras with Cards like Mickey Mantle, Roberto Clemente, Mike Trout and more commonly featured. Look for tougher autographed and memorabilia parallels as well this year.

Artifacts – Topps has turned up the memorabilia insert game exponentially in recent years. The Artifacts subset highlights authentic pieces of equipment, uniforms and more from today’s top talent. Serial numbered parallels range from /99 all the way down to ulta short prints and 1/1 exclusives. Everything from jersey swatches and bat pieces to signature patches and dugout material can be found. Cards of Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, and Shohei Ohtani regularly see monster values in the collecting community.

Tatis Jr. Masters – Ever since emerging as a generational superstar, Fernando Tatis Jr. has been a sought after featured player for Topps inserts. The popular Masters parallel cards highlight Tatis with other legends of the game likenesses and autographs embedded directly onto the card front. Past years have seen Tatis paired up with stars like Mays, Mantle, Griffey Jr., and more. These are tough pulls that Tatis super fans scour the hobby for.

Fernando Mania is sure to continue strong for 2023 Topps after Tatis returns to play following injury. Topps generally sneakily inserts a few other current young stars like Acuña, Guerrero Jr., Alcantara and more into the Masters checklist as secondary featured players as well. Numbered parallels and tougher hits make this an exciting long term collector’s chase each new release.

Topps Now – Topps keeps on top of the latest MLB news and milestones throughout the season with its popular Topps Now program. Digital and physical card issues allow Topps to rapidly commemorate big performances, records, debuts, and more from the past month of action. While not always found in packs, these on-demand releases remain a vital part of completing Topps’ yearly offering. Popular Topps Now subjects in the past have included Albert Pujols’ 700th home run, Shohei Ohtani’s dominance, and rookie of the year standouts. As the ever changing MLB landscape brings new stories, Topps Now will be there to capture the moments.

While there are always new insert sets on the horizon, collectors can bet fan favorites like Gallery of Stars, Topps Living Set, League Leaders, and 3D will make returns featuring new player checklists and parallel variations to hunt. Serial number patches, rare ink, coveted autographs, and one of ones across all the inserts are what really get serious Topps collectors chasing in 2023. With baseball’s rising young talent joining already established megastars, Topps Baseball cards remain must-haves for keeping up with the game both on and off the diamond. The hobby’s appetite for flashy parallels and hit chase collectibles shows no signs of slowing.

2023 TOPPS SERIES 1 BASEBALL BEST CARDS

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The 2023 Topps Series 1 baseball set is set for release in late February and as always, there are several highly sought after rookie cards and veteran stars that collectors will be hunting. The 2023 Topps Series 1 set marks the 66th year of Topps’ flagship baseball release and contains base cards, parallels, autographs, and more. While the full checklist won’t be revealed until closer to release date, here are some of the top young players and veterans collectors should keep an eye out for.

One of the biggest rookies to watch for is Dodgers shortstop and 2020 #2 overall draft pick Jordan Lawlar. Lawlar had a breakout season in High-A and Double-A in 2022, slashing .299/.403/.579 with 21 home runs and 20 stolen bases over 100 games. He is considered one of the top prospects in baseball and his rookie cards are sure to be in high demand. Another highly touted rookie is Twins outfielder and #3 overall pick in 2021, Jordan Walker. Walker showed off impressive power in High-A last season with 10 home runs in 55 games. His prospect status and association with baseball’s #1 overall franchise in Minnesota will give Walker’s rookie cards strong long term potential.

Royals catcher MJ Melendez had a breakout 2022 season, slashing .239/.323/.422 with 19 home runs for Kansas City. Melendez made his MLB debut last season and should see an increased role in 2023. His prospect pedigree and early MLB success make Melendez one to watch. Reds pitcher Hunter Greene had a solid rookie season in 2022, showing off his triple-digit fastball across 12 starts. Greene struck out 86 batters in 56 innings and will be an exciting young arm to track. For the National League, Cardinals outfielder and 2020 #13 overall pick Jordan Walker could emerge as a star. Walker hit .308 with 10 home runs between Double-A and Triple-A in 2022.

On the veteran side, Mike Trout remains one of the most coveted names in the hobby. Even after a decade in the majors, Trout cards hold tremendous value. Any Trout parallels, autographs or memorabilia cards from Series 1 will be big hits. Fellow superstar Mookie Betts also has strong fanfare after winning the 2018 World Series MVP and 2020 AL MVP. The Angels made a splash signing Aaron Judge to a megadeal in free agency, so any Judge Series 1 cards will gain traction. Rafael Devers of the Red Sox had an MVP caliber season in 2022 and his star continues to rise. Devers cards may see increased interest after his 38 home run, 115 RBI performance.

Some other established veterans to target include Mariners outfielder and 2021 AL Rookie of the Year Julio Rodriguez, Cardinals first baseman and 23-year-old Paul Goldschmidt, Brewers outfielder Christian Yelich and Guardians third baseman Jose Ramirez. On the pitching side, Series 1 cards of Yankees ace Gerrit Cole, Dodgers star Clayton Kershaw and Padres fireballer Joe Musgrove will attract collectors. Rookies and veterans alike, parallels remain some of the most sought after chase cards in Series 1. Topps typically includes several parallel sets like Gold, Silver, Rainbow Foil and Black Border parallels that exponentially increase rarities and values.

Autograph cards are always a big draw in Series 1 as well. While the checklist won’t be known until release, some names that could surface include Lawlar, Walker, Greene and other top prospects. Past autographs from Series 1 of stars like Trout, Betts and Judge before they reached superstardom are some of the most valuable modern baseball cards. Memorabilia cards are another area to watch. Topps usually includes several uniform and bat card variations that mix in swatches and pieces of jerseys and bats. Landing memorabilia cards of the games biggest names is a huge hit.

Topps has also included popular short print variations in recent years like Photo Variations, Negative Photographs and Negative Photoshop Variations. These altered image cards of stars increase the fun of the chase. Additionally, Topps usually includes a retail exclusive parallel like Walmart Green Parallels or Target Red Parallels that drive traffic to particular sellers. The 2023 Topps Series 1 release is primed to continue delivering the hobby’s most sought after rookie cards, parallels and autographs. Savvy collectors will be on the hunt for the top young players and biggest stars across the set’s base cards, hits and more when Series 1 arrives later this winter.

MOST EXPENSIVE TOPPS 2023 BASEBALL CARDS

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The release of Topps’ 2023 baseball card products has collectors excited to see what rare, valuable rookie cards and memorabilia cards hit the market. As with every year, a few super-precious gems emerge that command astronomical prices in the secondary market. Let’s take a look at some of the priciest Topps 2023 baseball cards that are already fetching big bucks from collectors.

Topping the list is a card that was somewhat expected – the Juan Soto rainbow foil parallel. Soto’s move from the Nationals to the Padres in a blockbuster trade during the 2022 season renewed interest and excitement around one of baseball’s brightest young stars. His Topps cards always sell for high dollars due to his age (23 years old), talent, and marketability. The Soto rainbow foil parallel from 2023 Update Series is numbered to only /50 copies. Within a week of release, PWCC Marketplace had one listed at $6,999. It’s likely the price will climb higher as the product continues selling out and more rainbow parallels don’t appear.

AnotherUpdate Series card driving up prices is the Judge Anderson Mesa rookie parallel. While Mesa isn’t a household MLB name yet, he’s considered a top pitching prospect in the Braves organization. His /75 parallel from Update sold for $1,300 only days after release. Mesa mania could continue heating up depending on how he performs early in his MLB career. Experts say any proven ace rookie from the Braves tends to attract huge collector interest long-term.

Rookies from the National League East always grab attention in Topps products as well. One that has stood out so far is the Brent Honeywell Jr. Contenders parallel from Update. Honeywell is attempting a comeback with the Nationals after serious arm injuries derailed his prospect status with the Rays years ago. His /75 parallel changed hands for a staggering $2,995 – showing collectors have faith in Honeywell’s ability to potentially rebuild value if he can stick in the Show. With his story of perseverance in overcoming health setbacks, interest in his rookie cards could persist for a while.

Perhaps the priciest multi-player card from 2023 Topps so far is a legendary one – a /5 printing plate of the “Dr. Strangebros” parallel featuring Anthony Rizzo and J.D. Martinez from Update Series. This one-of-a-kind memorabilia card evoking the famous “Strange Cousins” sketch from SNL snapped up for a cool $6,250. The absurdly low serial number and the hilarity of the “Strangebros'” viral nickname during Red Sox wins combined to make this a true collector’s piece for anyone who can afford it.

Shifting to the flagship Topps base set, the most expensive regular rookie as of now is a Gem Mint PSA 10 Garrett Mitchell from the Brewers. Mitchell made his MLB debut in 2022 and immediately impressed with above-average speed and defense in center field. A single Mitchell PSA 10 already reached $799 on eBay – a landmark price for a standard base rookie in the initial weeks after the product hit shelves. Mitchell mania is just getting started in Topps World as collectors anticipate him becoming a breakout star for Milwaukee.

Topps Heritage has also unleashed some costly newbies so far in 2023. Headlining Heritage rookies is a Bobby Witt Jr. parallel numbered /199 that changed hands twice, with the last transaction at $999.99. Anyone following the sport knows Witt Jr.’s stellar rookie campaign with the Royals made him one of the most hyped young shortstops in the game. Attaching his name to a short-print parallel was bound to spike collector enthusiasm and pricing.

On the vintage side of Heritage, a rookie ticket parallel of Cardinals outfielder Alex Call has also found fans willing to spend. Listed at $650 on eBay, the /250 Call rookie ticket highlights how collectors value potential breakout players on storied MLB franchises. If Call becomes an impact bat in St. Louis’ lineup, his Heritage rookies may only increase in regard.

In the month since Topps 2023 first arrived, the prevailing theme has been young stars and prospects driving the highest prices on the resale market. Soto, Judge Mesa, and Mitchell have led the way in Update Series, while Witt Jr. and Call emerged as Heritage desirables. It will be interesting to see which new faces, parallels and memorabilia pieces establish themselves as true blue-chip investments over the long term. Topps’ annual offerings always unearth hidden gems that later reward card geeks. Stay tuned for more expensive 2023 rookies to emerge throughout the new year.

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2023 BOWMAN DRAFT BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 Bowman Draft baseball card set is one of the most highly anticipated releases each year from card manufacturer Topps. As the name implies, Bowman Draft features prospects selected in the MLB First-Year Player Draft from the current year. With the 2023 draft taking place from June 13-15, this set provides a first look at photography and information for many of the top amateur players just starting their professional careers.

Bowman Draft is one of four annual Bowman sets released by Topps, along with Bowman (featuring current minor leaguers), Bowman Sterling (high-end variants), and Bowman Chrome (refractors and parallels). What makes Bowman Draft unique is its exclusive license with Major League Baseball to photograph and produce cards of drafted players before they even sign. No other card company has this ability, making certain Bowman Draft rookies extremely scarce in their earliest printed form.

Release timing for Bowman Draft varies slightly year-to-year but usually occurs in late July through early August. This allows Topps to capture the draft class immediately after selection and rush those players into production. The 2023 version is expected to hit retailers nationwide around the first week of August. Case breaks and individual boxes/packs will be available through major online distributors like Dave & Adam’s, Steel City Collectibles and Blowout Cards from that date forward.

Base set size for Bowman Draft has remained consistent at 150 cards for several years. This includes photographs and stats for the top prospects from the draft class. Serial numbers on the back provide a brief scouting report and other relevant details about each player. Ranging from first round picks all the way down to late selections, the set aims to highlight as much of the draft class as possible within the 150 card checklist.

Parallels and inserts extend the set significantly beyond the base cards. Rainbow foil, black, and gold parallels can be pulled along with autographed and memorabilia rookie cards of the draft class. Popular “Chrome” and refractors parallels also debut players in a shiny format. Themed insert sets within Bowman Draft often pay tribute to past greats, events, and award-winners from baseball’s history. Overall set collectors can expect north of 500 total cards before considering short prints and serial numbered cards.

Autograph and memorabilia cards remain the most coveted Chase cards for high-end collectors. Numbered to typically 10 or less copies each, 1/1 printing plate autographs have become especially rare and valuable pieces within Bowman Draft in recent years. Dual autographs featuring two top prospects are also popular inserts pulling premium prices in the secondary market. For the ultra-rare collector, Topps even produces 1/1 Diamond Anniversary patches featuring swatches of actual draft event jerseys.

While set specifics for 2023 Bowman Draft are not fully revealed yet, early indicators point to another stellar rookie class on the way. Players expected to be well-represented include high school shortstop Jackson Holliday (son of Matt Holliday) as a potential top overall pick along with prep outfielders Dylan Lesko, Elijah Green and Brooks Lee. From the college ranks, Vanderbilt pitchers Kumar Rocker and Jack Leiter plus Florida righty Hunter Barco could draw extra attention from collectors.

As in years past, parallels will give collectors multiple options to chase down their favorite prospects. Topps Chrome and Refractor parallels add scintillating color and texture to the rookie photos. Gold and black label parallels offer limited edition variations. And for those wanting true one-of-a-kind items, autographed cards, game worn memorabilia, and 1/1 printing plates will provide the ultimate rookie cards for any draft prospect.

Whether pursuing base cards, parallels, autographs or one-of-ones, the 2023 Bowman Draft release offers a unique opportunity to obtain the earliest rookie cards possible for the next great generation of MLB stars. With a solid draft class on the way, coupled with the set’s traditional short print strategies, this year’s Bowman Draft is primed to be one of the most exciting and valuable issues in recent memory. Look for it to arrive at the beginning of August with breakers, bloggers and the card community eagerly awaiting to see what rookies this year’s draft class has in store.

2023 DONRUSS BASEBALL MOST VALUABLE CARDS

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The 2023 Donruss baseball set is one of the most highly anticipated releases each year from Panini America. While the base cards can be collected for relatively low prices, several rookie cards and parallels have already shown promise to become extremely valuable in the near future. With another exciting rookie class headlined by shortstop Jackson Holliday and outfielder Druw Jones, 2023 Donruss is primed to produce numerous valuable gems.

Leading the way is expected to be the prized autograph and memorabilia rookie cards of Jackson Holliday and Druw Jones. Holliday was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft by the Baltimore Orioles and is considered a true five-tool prospect. His autograph rookie cards in Donruss are already commanding prices well over $100 in pre-sale listings. Druw Jones, who the Arizona Diamondbacks selected second, is the son of five-time Gold Glove winner Andruw Jones and has incredible athleticism and potential. Low-numbered parallels and memorabilia cards of Holliday and Jones are likely to sell for thousands in the coming years if they develop as expected.

Another rookie generating huge buzz is shortstop Termarr Johnson of the Atlanta Braves. While not a first round pick like Holliday and Jones, Johnson showcased impressive power and athleticism in his pro debut season. His autographed and memorabilia rookie cards are highly sought after by Braves fans and speculators. Refractors, negative refractors, and especially 1/1 parallel versions of Johnson could appreciate into the four-figure range or higher long term.

Veteran superstars still hold value in Donruss as well. Shohei Ohtani remains one of the biggest draws in baseball as a two-way phenom. Low-numbered parallels and memorabilia cards featuring the reigning AL MVP are must-owns for serious Ohtani collectors. Numbered to 10 copies or less, these Ohtani short prints could demand prices north of $1,000 per card down the road. Similarly, rookie year cards of current stars like Juan Soto, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. remain in high demand. Their most scarce parallels from 2013, 2015, and 2018 Donruss sets command big money on the secondary market.

Pitchers can also develop into valuable prospects. Shortstop Brady House was one of the biggest risers in the 2022 draft class after showcasing a triple-digit fastball in his debut. As a first rounder to the Los Angeles Dodgers, House’s autographed rookie cards are already selling briskly. Memorabilia cards that feature swatches of his jersey could gain serious value if he develops his arsenal as hoped. Likewise, two-way player Dylan Lesko was a top-10 pick by the Minnesota Twins and possesses elite stuff on the mound. Low-numbered refractors and autographs of Lesko could pay off massively for patient collectors.

When evaluating long-term value, parallel rarity is extremely important to consider with Donruss. Refractors, negative refractors, and especially 1/1 serial-numbered parallel cards hold the most potential. But lower print runs like gold parallels (#/25), silver (#/50), and even some numbered to #/99 also tend to appreciate at a higher rate than base cards over time. The scarcer the parallel, the more sharply demand and prices can rise as years pass – especially for the top rookie talents.

Condition is also a major factor, as even the most coveted cards can lose significant value with creases, corners/edges worn, or other flaws. It’s wise for collectors to carefully grade and slab valuable parallels through a reputable third party like PSA or SGC. This helps preserve condition over decades while also providing a trusted, liquid marketplace through auction sites like eBay upon resale. Top rookies that return grades of PSA/BGS 10 are almost always guaranteed to increase in value as that player’s career progresses.

While it remains unseen how the careers of young stars like Holliday, Jones, and others may unfold, 2023 Donruss is poised to produce numerous valuable rookie cards and short prints. For those willing to hold long-term, taking a chance on low-numbered parallels of top prospects through breaks, boxes, and individual card purchases could yield high returns with patience. The vintage appeal of the brand also bodes well for future collecting interest decades from now. By selectively adding the most coveted 2023 rookies now, savvy collectors are laying the foundation for potentially valuable collections in the years ahead.