Tag Archives: 2023

CUBS BASEBALL CARDS 2023

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The Chicago Cubs are coming off another disappointing season in 2022 but there are signs of hope and promise for the future as the beloved North Siders continue their rebuild. While the on-field product may still be developing, Cubs fans can always look forward to the release of the latest baseball card sets each year featuring their favorite team and players both past and present. 2023 looks to be another exciting year for Cubs cards as several young stars continue to emerge and veterans remain fan favorites.

Top Young Stars To Watch

Perhaps the most anticipated Cubs cards for collectors in 2023 will be those featuring some of the team’s rising young talents. After a breakout season that saw him named NL Rookie of the Year, Seiya Suzuki will surely be one of the hot commodities. The 27-year-old Japanese outfielder batted .262 with 17 home runs in his first MLB campaign and looks primed for even bigger things. Another corner outfielder to keep an eye on is Ian Happ, who is coming into his prime at 26 years old. Happ has shown steady improvement each year and hit 25 home runs in 2022, proving to be a foundation piece as the Cubs move forward.

On the mound, 23-year-old righty Keegan Thompson looks poised for stardom after a breakout 2022 where he went 12-8 with a 3.97 ERA as a versatile starter and reliever. Thompson flashed three above average pitches and good control, making him one of the more intriguing young arms in baseball going forward. Fellow young hurlers such as Justin Steele, Adrian Sampson and Brandon Hughes also continue to develop and will be fun to track through their baseball cards.

Of course, the crown jewel of the Cubs’ collection of prospects remains outfielder Brennen Davis. The former top 100 prospect started to tap into his enormous power potential late in 2022 and will look to lock down an everyday role in 2023 at age 23. Davis has one of the highest ceilings in the system and collecting his rookie cards now could prove very profitable down the road if he reaches his star potential.

Veteran Fan Favorites

While rebuilding, the Cubs have opted to hold onto some popular veterans who continue to produce and provide leadership in the clubhouse. Perennial All-Star Willson Contreras remains one of the top backstops in baseball at 30 years old and is a heart-and-soul type player beloved on the North Side of Chicago. Contreras’ cards always fly off the shelves and 2023 looks to be no different as he enters a contract year.

Also entering his final year of team control before free agency is impending free agent catcher Yan Gomes. The 35-year-old defensive specialist has developed into a valuable experienced backup and mentor, lending his veteran experience behind the plate. Gomes remains quite popular with Cubs fans and in the dugout.

On the mound, Cubs fans can still get behind two crafty veterans who were key contributors again in 2022. Righty Kyle Hendricks, despite battling injuries, continues to chew up innings efficiently when healthy at 32 years old. A mainstay in the team’s rotation for years, Hendricks’ cards maintain their following. Fellow right-hander Wade Miley is an underrated signing that paid dividends last season. At 36, Miley proved he remains an innings-eater capable of eating quality starts.

Up And Coming RCs To Watch For

While focusing mainly on developing young talent, the Cubs did add a couple notable prospects through the draft in 2022 who collectors will want to watch out for in their rookie card debuts. Fifth overall pick Cutter Montgomery is one of the top prep arms in the draft class with a projectable 6’4 frame and three promising pitches. The pitcher out of Georgia flashed mid-90s heat and could rise up prospect lists quickly.

Later in the first round, the Cubs selected prep shortstop Christopher Morel out of Puerto Rico. Morel is a tooled up switch hitter with huge raw power potential and athleticism expected to stick at short. After flying through two levels of the minors last season, Morel could reach Wrigley soon and give fans an exciting young position player to follow. Keep an eye out for the rookie cards of these two potential future stars.

Vintage Cubs Still In High Demand

As one of the most storied franchises in baseball, the Cubs have no shortage of beloved alumni that maintain card value well after retirement. Perhaps no retired Cub maintains stronger demand than Ryne Sandberg, who remains one of the most memorable and accomplished second basemen in history. The Hall of Famer played his entire career in Chicago’s beloved blue pinstripes from 1981-1997, capturing the ’84 NL MVP and earning 10 Gold Gloves. Ryno’s rookie cards from 1981 remain among the most sought after Cubs items.

Another Cubs legend holding steady valuation is Fergie Jenkins. The Hall of Fame righty spent eight brilliant seasons on the North Side from 1966-1973, leading the NL in wins twice and ERA once en route to a career 3.34 ERA in Chicago. Jenkins’ rookie cards and Cubs starter/star cards are considered classics in the hobby. Even role players like Rick Monday, Jose Cardenal and Jody Davis from the famed 1984 division winner see collectors clamoring for their Cubs cards.

The state of Cubs collecting remains strong as fans look forward to a promising young core emerging at Wrigley Field. With established vets like Contreras and Hendricks alongside young breakouts like Suzuki and Thompson, 2023 figures to bring another exciting year of Cubs cards both new and vintage. Staying patient through the rebuild, collectors can take solace in adding top prospects like Montgomery and Morel to their Cubs PC with high expectations for the future.

DONRUSS 2023 BASEBALL CARDS ROOKIES

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Donruss is one of the most iconic brands in the baseball card industry and their 2023 offering is sure to excite collectors with another standout rookie class. While stars like Shohei Ohtani and Ronald Acuña Jr. have graced past Donruss sets, the 2023 edition will shine the spotlight on the next generation of future MLB greats.

Heading the rookie class for Donruss 2023 are shortstop Oneil Cruz of the Pittsburgh Pirates and outfielder Julio Rodríguez of the Seattle Mariners. Both Cruz and Rodríguez had breakout seasons in 2022 that have collectors and analysts buzzing about their long-term potential. Cruz brings elite power to the shortstop position at 6’7″ with a cannon for an arm. He clubbed 15 home runs in just 80 games as a 23 year old, showing off prodigious raw tools. Rodríguez meanwhile set the baseball world ablaze by slashing .284/.345/.509 with 28 home runs and 25 stolen bases at age 21, showcasing five-tool abilities that could make him a perennial All-Star. Their Donruss rookie cards are sure to be in high demand.

Another highly touted rookie duo featured in the Donruss set are catcher Adley Rutschman of the Baltimore Orioles and shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals. Rutschman was the top prospect in all of baseball and after a strong debut showed why with a .254 average and 7 home runs in just 50 games. His polish behind the plate and elite bat-to-ball skills have scouts drooling over his superstar potential. Witt Jr. meanwhile made headlines by reaching the majors by age 21 and didn’t disappoint, clubbing 20 home runs while playing stellar defense at a premium position. Both are future cornerstones of rebuilding franchises and collectors would be wise to stock up on their rookie cards early.

Beyond the headliners, the Donruss 2023 class offers several other rookies who made strong first impressions in 2022 and could develop into stars. Catcher Gabriel Moreno of the Toronto Blue Jays had a .324 average over 36 games in his debut and looks ready to seize the starting job in 2023. Pitchers like Braves’ sensation Spencer Strider, Marlins’ ace Edward Cabrera, and Rangers’ power arm Jack Leiter all showed electric stuff in their first tastes of the bigs and will be exciting to track going forward. Outfielders like Seiya Suzuki of the Cubs and Michael Harris II of the Braves had solid rookie campaigns and their cards could appreciate with continued success.

For collectors, the Donruss 2023 release will offer several product options to find the hottest new rookies. The base set checklist will include all the key first year players. Retail blasters and hangers provide an affordable entry point, while hobby boxes offer chase parallels and autographs of the top prospects. Multi-sport “Donruss Elite” will combine baseball with basketball and football hits. And for the true high-roller, “Donruss Elite Extra Edition” offers the creme de la creme with 1/1 memorabilia cards and color samples of the biggest stars. With such a deep rookie class headlined by future superstars, Donruss 2023 is primed to be one of the most exciting releases in recent memory.

While rookies generate the most buzz, veteran collectors know the true long-term gems are often found deeper in the set. Players like Adames, Arraez, and Grichuk had breakout seasons in 2022 and their Donruss base cards could appreciate significantly with continued success. Pitchers like Shane McClanahan, Sandy Alcantara, and Alek Manoah look poised for Cy Young caliber careers and their rookie cards from past Donruss sets could start to rival the legends. Even veterans like Trout, Judge and deGrom who continue to dominate provide affordable options for any collection.

With its classic design aesthetic and focus on the current season, Donruss remains the most authentic product on the market for chronicling MLB’s latest stars. The 2023 set is sure to ship with record production numbers to keep pace with skyrocketing hobby demand. But for discerning collectors, finding the next big rookie before the hype or snagging a future HOFer at an affordable price is still possible with some savvy hunting through retail. Whether chasing parallels, autographs or just building full base sets – Donruss 2023 has all the ingredients to be an instant classic and one of the most collected releases in recent memory. The rookie class and storylines have generated a palpable buzz that is sure to spill over from the card aisles to baseball diamonds for years to come.

2023 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 baseball season will see the release of numerous baseball card sets from the major card companies like Topps, Panini, and Leaf. With a new year comes new designs, rookie cards, and parallels to collect. Here’s an in-depth look at some of the most notable releases collectors can expect to see hit store shelves and online retailers in the coming months.

Topps Series 1 is usually the first major release of the year, dropping in late January or early February. The 2023 edition will feature rookie cards of the top prospects called up in 2022 like Bobby Witt Jr., Spencer Torkelson, and Julio Rodriguez. Parallels like Gold, Silver, and Rainbow Foil are always fan favorites to chase. Topps Update then follows in late summer/early fall with any midseason call-ups and additional rookie cards. Both sets will feature the standard base cards along with various parallels and short prints to keep collectors hunting.

Panini Prizm is one of the hottest modern brands and their 2023 release is highly anticipated. Prizm has become known for its flashy refractors and color parallels. The rookie class will be the main focus, but stars like Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto can also be found. Panini usually does two waves of Prizm with the second release adding more parallels and 1/1 rarities. Expect Prizm to be one of the most valuable modern sets on the secondary market next year.

After taking 2021 off, Leaf is returning to the baseball card scene in 2023. Their flagship set is called Leaf Metal and features a clean design with sharp photography on a textured cardstock. Metal will surely have one of the best presentations of any release. Rated Rookie and Autograph parallels are sure to make some noise. Leaf is also planning a high-end release called Leaf Trinity that will push the limits with innovative parallels and 1/1 patches and autographs.

Donruss is a classic brand that is owned by Panini. Their 2023 offering will be Donruss Optic which focuses on refractors, color bursts, and parallels like the popular Rainbow Foil. Optic is usually a mid-priced modern set that offers some of the flashier cards at a more affordable price-point compared to higher-end brands. Veterans, rookies, and parallels galore can be found in Optic packs and boxes.

Bowman is the premier brand for baseball prospects and their 2023 release will be one to watch. As always, Bowman will feature the first cards of that year’s draft class along with international signings. Parallels, autographs, and 1/1 cards of prospects like Druw Jones will make Bowman a hotly anticipated release. Keep an eye out for short prints, prospects with flashy uniforms/poses, and autographs of top draft picks that could become very valuable if those players pan out in the pros.

Allen & Ginter is a fun, retro-style set that is a hobby staple each summer. A&G features unique designs, various parallels like Gold/Silver Signatures, and oddball mini cards. The 2023 edition will likely have a retro design with players photographed in old-timey uniforms. A&G is a low-risk set to collect for the fun factor but short prints and stars could become quite valuable long-term.

Stadium Club and Triple Threads from Topps are high-end releases that photography and patch/auto parallel lovers look forward to each year. Stadium Club will have its sharp images while Triple Threads focuses on intricate patch cards and serial-numbered autographs. These sets push the limits of on-card relics and autographs with some true 1/1 masterpieces that can sell for thousands. For those wanting the best cards money can buy, Stadium Club and Triple Threads will surely deliver.

While the above brands will likely be the major releases, keep an eye out for smaller sets too. Heritage from Topps is a retro-styled set perfect for vintage design fans. GQ is a flashy brand from Panini focused on color and parallels. Archives from Topps revisits past designs. Plus, brands like Leaf, Panini, and Topps usually have various insert sets throughout the year focusing on specific players or themes.

2023 is shaping up to be an exciting year for baseball cards between the star rookies, veteran players, flashy parallels, and innovative designs. With the continued growth of the hobby, next season’s releases are poised to be some of the most anticipated in recent memory. Savvy collectors will want to mark their calendars for the key dates and be ready to chase their favorite players across the various sets hitting stores in the new year.

TOPPS 2023 BIG LEAGUE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 Topps Big League Baseball card set will be one of the most anticipated releases of the year. Topps has produced flagship baseball cards for over 70 years and remains the industry leader. Their 2023 offering is set to include many exciting features that will appeal to collectors both new and old.

As with previous years, the 2023 set will span a total of 529 cards that cover all 30 Major League Baseball teams and eligible players. Ranging from rookie cards to star players, the assortment aims to include representations of notable performers from the past season. Paramount to the set’s appeal will be the inclusion of rookie cards for top MLB prospects who made their debuts in 2022 such as Bobby Witt Jr., Spencer Torkelson, and Steven Kwan. These fresh faces of the league are sure to drive interest from collectors pursuing the next generation of stars.

An area that Topps consistently improves upon is photograph and card quality. For 2023, they are continuing their use of high resolution images and sturdy stock to produce cards that can withstand the test of time. Close-up action shots and crisp uniforms have become a hallmark of Topps releases. Their stricter quality control protocols means collectors can feel confident that miscuts and print flaws will be fewer than in years past. Careful curation of the photographic selection also helps ensure only the most aesthetically pleasing images are used on the cardboard.

One highly anticipated specialized subset that was just announced is the “Topps Golden Anniversary” cards commemorating players who were on MLB rosters 50 years ago in the 1972 and 1973 seasons. This nostalgic tie-in to Topps’ five decades of making baseball cards is sure to be a fan favorite among vintage collectors. Prominent players of that era such as Hank Aaron, Johnny Bench, and Tom Seaver will be featured with intriguing photographic selections and golden anniversary branding/design elements distinct from the standard base cards.

Bonus materials have been another way for Topps to add value and excitement to recent sets. For 2023, expect several special parallels and short print chase cards to provide that layer of indefinite complexity that drives obsessive hunting. Materials rumored to be included are the always popular Foilboard, Printing Plates, and Star Rookies short prints. Gallery of Greats inserts are also expected to return showcasing MLB legends of yesteryear. Expect these inserts/hits to numbering in the single digits for highest scarcity.

Continuing the heritage of Topps, the 2023 release will keep the iconic white border design that has become the gold standard in the industry. Subtle but impactful tweaks are made each year to elements such as colors, logos, and word marks to give each new set its own identity while paying homage to the classic style. An updated rendition of iconic mascot Mr. Met is teased to grace the base card backs as well. The cohesive set design that feels both nostalgic and modern has been key to the brand’s success.

As with recent years, Topps should have no shortage of major league partnership involvement for 2023. The company has exclusive agreements in place with MLB, MLBPA, and all 30 teams that allow them to secure premium quality images and licensing. This level of access often means Topps parallels and inserts may feature authentic material from actual jerseys or equipment. Examples being swatches of fabric, pieces of bats, or other unique game-used memorabilia that separate them from competition brands.

It’s expected that Topps 2023 retail release will hit hobby shop shelves in late winter/early spring 2023. Before then, hobby box and case breakers should start seeing pre-release inventory in December/January. The true official release date announcement usually comes much closer at only a month or two out. This level of secrecy helps Topps combat repackaging and keeps release buzz high. The premium product such as Luxury Suite and Tier One can even remain lottery-allocated through much of the release cycle to greatest control special “1/1” hits.

After two years of supply chain and production issues affecting many sports card companies, Topps has reportedly taken steps to ensure ample 2023 Big League Baseball availability. Multiple print runs are planned with inventory to reach both flagship and big box retail channels. Direct-to-consumer premium Topps release options like ‘S1’ and ‘S2’ subscription boxes should help guarantee enthusiastic collectors get their hands on fresh product. This bodes well to keep excitement high from dedicated fans and stimulate the overall baseball card market.

With exclusive new content, high quality execution, exciting guaranteed hits, and bright prospects on MLB rosters, the Topps 2023 release has all the makings of a true collector favorite. After over 70 years in the industry, Topps continues innovating while honoring the tradition that makes baseball cards such an integral part of the sport’s history. Whether being purchased as a fun new set to collect or as an investment for the future, this flagship release looks primed to be one of the most successful in years. Serious and casual collectors alike will not want to miss adding it to their collections.

2023 BIG LEAGUE BASEBALL BEST CARDS

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2023 is shaping up to be another exciting year for baseball card collectors. With rookies like Julio Rodriguez continuing to break out and stars like Shohei Ohtani reaching new heights, there will be no shortage of coveted cardboard on the market. Here are some of the best baseball cards to keep an eye out for as the 2023 season approaches.

Julio Rodriguez Topps Chrome Rookie Refractor Auto – One of the biggest rookie sensations of 2022 was Mariners center fielder Julio Rodriguez. The 21-year-old slugger smashed 28 home runs in his first full MLB season and looks poised for stardom. His Topps Chrome rookie refractors and autographs from 2022 are already highly sought after, with PSA 10 examples fetching thousands. Look for his 2023 Topps Chrome rookie cards to be hugely popular as well, especially any autographed parallels. Rodriguez’s talent and marketability make him a favorite for Rookie of the Year, which would further boost the value of his rookie cards next season.

Shohei Ohtani Topps Flagship Base Rookie – Ohtani had one of the greatest individual seasons in baseball history in 2022, winning the AL MVP award while pitching and hitting at an elite level. His 2018 Topps Flagship rookie card is already a holy grail for collectors, with PSA 10s selling for well over $10,000. While Ohtani’s rookie cards will likely never be affordable for most collectors, his 2023 Topps base cards are sure to be hot commodities. Any parallels or special inserts featuring the two-way superstar will command big money on the secondary market as collectors seek to add an Ohtani card from what could be another historic season.

Bobby Witt Jr. Topps Chrome Rookie Auto Parallels – Royals star third baseman Bobby Witt Jr. had a strong debut campaign in 2022 and looks ready to cement his status as a franchise cornerstone. His 2022 rookie cards, especially autographed parallels from Topps Chrome, are already in high demand. Witt’s talent and marketability in Kansas City make him another strong candidate for top rookie honors in 2023. Any autographed parallels from his sophomore Topps Chrome cards will be must-owns for collectors seeking to get in early on a potential superstar’s career.

Ronald Acuña Jr. Topps Flagship Refractor – After missing most of the 2022 and 2021 seasons to injury, Braves outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. looks poised for a full, healthy campaign in 2023 as he looks to recapture his MVP-caliber form. Still just 25, Acuña has superstar potential and is beloved by Atlanta fans. His 2018 Topps Flagship refractors remain highly sought after by collectors. Acuña’s 2023 Topps base cards, especially any refractors showing him at full strength, are primed to be some of the most coveted on the market next season.

Spencer Strider Topps Chrome Rookie Auto – Braves ace Spencer Strider had a breakout rookie campaign in 2022, showcasing electric stuff while making 31 starts. The flame-throwing righty looks like a future staff ace and could be in line for more wins and strikeouts in 2023 now that Atlanta’s rotation is thinner. Strider’s rookie cards from 2022 Topps Chrome, especially any autographed parallels, are already gaining value quickly. His sophomore Topps Chrome rookie cards will be hotly pursued by collectors bullish on his future stardom.

Two-Way Stars Parallels – Topps’ “Two-Way Stars” inserts from 2022 highlighting Ohtani, Michael Lorenzen, and Brendan McKay were a huge hit with collectors. Look for Topps to continue the concept in 2023, potentially adding stars like Pirates prospect Oneil Cruz who saw time on the mound and in the field in 2022. Any parallels or autographed versions featuring established two-way threats like Ohtani will be big ticket items for collectors excited about the resurgence of two-way players in MLB.

Wander Franco Topps Chrome Rainbow Foil – Rays star shortstop Wander Franco looks poised for a monster 2023 campaign after playing through injuries as a 21-year-old in 2022. Franco’s rookie cards, especially high-end parallels from Topps Chrome, are already selling for thousands. His 2023 Topps Chrome cards, especially the ultra-rare rainbow foil parallels, are sure to be white whales for collectors betting on Franco’s ascension among the game’s true elite players. Any Franco cards showing continued improvement could explode in value with a big season.

Top Rookie Autos – While players like Rodriguez, Witt and Strider will be among the top rookie cards to target, keep a wide scope on the always unpredictable rookie class. Breakout stars are hard to predict, so try to snag affordable autographed rookie cards from all the top prospects to ensure exposure to the next star. Cards like Oneil Cruz, Bobby Miller, Emerson Hancock and more could explode in value with strong MLB debuts in 2023.

Vintage Star Throwbacks – Topps is sure to continue cranking out fun vintage-style throwback cards of the game’s biggest stars in 2023. Parallels featuring stars like Mike Trout, Aaron Judge or Yordan Alvarez styled after their heroes will be hot commodities. These unique cards marrying new stars to vintage designs are popular with collectors seeking creative cards beyond the basic base issues.

In summary, 2023 looks to be another exciting year of top prospects, established stars and unique parallels on the baseball card market. Staying on top of the hottest rookies while also tracking superstar seasons and unique insert sets from Topps and others will help serious collectors track down the most coveted cardboard. With talent like Ohtani, Acuña and Franco primed for big campaigns, and rookies like Rodriguez and Witt on the rise, there will be no shortage of cards that could become future classics.

2023 TOPPS BASEBALL MOST EXPENSIVE CARDS

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The 2023 Topps Baseball card set released in late January 2023 with much anticipation from collectors looking to pull valuable rookie cards and chase cards of star players. With the rise of the sports card industry in recent years, Topps cards have become some of the most coveted and expensive hobby items. Let’s take a look at some of the early standouts from the 2023 Topps Baseball release that are already commanding big money on the secondary market.

Julio Rodríguez Rookie Card (Topps Chrome Refractor #154)

The biggest star from the 2022 rookie class was Mariners center fielder Julio Rodríguez. After winning the AL Rookie of the Year award, Rodríguez mania has taken over the baseball card world. His Topps Chrome Refractor rookie is the clear number one card from 2023 Topps so far. PSA 10 examples have already crossed the $1,000 price point with most selling in the $700-900 range. As Rodríguez continues his stellar career, this card is poised to be one of the most valuable modern rookie cards in the long run. The colorful and flashy Chrome design combined with Rodríguez’s budding superstardom make this a must-own for any collector.

Spencer Strider Rookie Card (Topps Chrome Refractor #223)

Another breakout rookie pitcher from 2022 was Braves flamethrower Spencer Strider. Despite only pitching around 150 innings last season, Strider made a huge impact with his electric fastball and strikeout stuff. His Topps Chrome Refractor rookie has taken off and looks to be the second most valuable card behind Julio’s. PSA 10 examples are selling in the $400-600 range already which is very high for a rookie card that is only a few months old. Strider has ace potential and with continued success, this card could rival the value of other top Braves rookie cards in the long run.

Bobby Witt Jr. Rookie Card (Topps Chrome Refractor #199)

The number one pick from the 2019 draft and ROY candidate in 2022, Bobby Witt Jr quickly became one of the faces of the next generation in baseball. While he didn’t quite live up to the massive hype in his first full season, Witt showed plenty of promise and 5 tool talent playing shortstop for the Royals. His Topps Chrome Refractor rookie from 2023 is the third most expensive card so far behind Julio and Strider. PSA 10 examples are selling around the $300-400 mark. As Witt develops into the perennial all-star caliber player he’s projected to become, this card will remain highly sought after in the years to come.

Two-Sport Stars: Shohei Ohtani & Bryce Harper Chrome Refractors

Two of the biggest stars in baseball today that transcend the sport are Angels’ Shohei Ohtani and Phillies’ Bryce Harper. As dual threat pitching/hitting superstars, they have captured the attention of both baseball and sports card collectors. Their Topps Chrome Refractor base cards from 2023 have taken off in the early going. PSA 10 Ohtani’s are selling around $150-200 while Harper’s are fetching $100-150. With Ohtani’s continued two-way dominance and Harper being in the MVP discussion yearly, these modern star cards hold incredible long term value and growth potential.

Mike Trout Base Card (#76)

You can’t have a discussion about the most expensive cards without mentioning the best player of this generation, Mike Trout. While he missed significant time in 2022 due to injury, Trout is still the face of baseball when healthy and on the field. His base card from 2023 Topps is already one of the set’s most popular chase cards. PSA 10 examples are selling in the $50-75 range which is very high for a base card in a modern release. As Trout continues shattering records and cementing his legacy as an all-time great, any Trout card, but especially his base card, will remain a cornerstone in any collection for decades to come.

Rookie Pitchers: George Kirby, Grayson Rodriguez & Hunter Greene

While the position player rookie class of 2023 may not have had a clear cut superstar, the pitching rookie class was loaded with future aces. Three rookies who stood out last season and have valuable rookie cards include Mariners’ George Kirby, Orioles’ Grayson Rodriguez, and Reds’ Hunter Greene. Their Topps Chrome Refractor rookies are all selling in the $75-150 range for PSA 10’s depending on the player. All three pitchers have electric stuff and ace potential. As they develop and potentially become frontline starters, these rookie cards could appreciate significantly like past stars. They represent solid long term prospects for patient collectors.

Vintage Parallels: Gold & Rainbow Foil Parallels

For collectors seeking a higher end vintage parallel card, two standouts so far include the Gold Foil parallels and especially the ultra rare Rainbow Foil parallels. Only 10 Rainbow Foil cards exist for each player and they feature vivid colors and textures. Early Gold Foil sales of stars like Trout, Ohtani and Harper have reached the $300-500 range depending on the player popularity. Meanwhile, the first Rainbow Foil to sell was a Bobby Witt Jr. which astonishingly sold for over $3,000 raw. As the scarcest parallels available, these premium vintage parallels hold incredible potential to gain value over the long run.

While it’s still very early, the 2023 Topps Baseball release is shaping up to have several rookie cards, stars and parallels that could end up being some of the most expensive and valuable modern cards in the years to come. As the young players develop their careers and demand increases for stars like Trout, Ohtani and Harper, prices are poised to rise substantially from current levels. For collectors with the patience and foresight to pick up top cards now, 2023 Topps offers opportunities to potentially acquire future six and even seven figure gems.

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BASEBALL CARDS TO BUY IN 2023

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As baseball card collectors look ahead to the 2023 season, there are several young stars and rookie cards that could provide strong long-term value. While veteran stars like Mike Trout, Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto will always be desirable, focusing on up-and-coming players set to break out can offer substantial returns on investment.

Bobby Witt Jr. (Kansas City Royals) – The top overall pick from the 2019 draft had a phenomenal rookie season in 2022. Witt slashed .250/.290/.435 with 20 home runs and 30 stolen bases. He established himself as a budding superstar and the future face of the Royals franchise. Witt’s rookie cards from 2021 Topps products and 2022 Bowman Draft are excellent buys before he potentially wins Rookie of the Year. As he develops into a perennial All-Star, Witt’s rookie card prices will only rise.

Spencer Torkelson (Detroit Tigers) – After a disappointing rookie campaign in 2022 where he batted just .197, expectations remain high for Torkelson that he can turn things around in year two. The number one overall pick from 2020 has plus raw power and should improve greatly as he gains experience. His rookie cards from 2021 Topps products are quite affordable now compared to where they could be in a couple years if Torkelson breaks out. There is high upside potential here.

Brady House (Los Angeles Angels) – As one of the top prospects in the Angels stacked farm system, House had a breakout 2022 season slashing .312/.382/.509 between High-A and Double-A. The 2020 third rounder has the chance to be an impact middle of the order bat and his prospect cards could surge if he continues progressing. House’s 2021 Bowman Draft Purple Refractor #250 is an intriguing flier pick.

Oneil Cruz (Pittsburgh Pirates) – Cruz had a breakout showing in his first extended MLB stint in 2022, showcasing plus power and elite speed for his 6’7″ frame. While strikeouts are a concern, the tools are undeniable. His prospect cards exploded last year and rookie cards from 2021 Topps products will remain hot assets as Cruz establishes himself in Pittsburgh.

Adley Rutschman (Baltimore Orioles) – After a strong debut in 2022 where he slashed .254/.362/.430, Rutschman looks to be well on his way to living up to his billing as the top prospect in baseball. The switch hitting catcher has a complete skillset and will be a franchise cornerstone for the Orioles. His rookie cards are still relatively affordable compared to future Hall of Famers. Rutschman is a blue chip investment.

Julio Rodriguez (Seattle Mariners) – Rodriguez captured the AL Rookie of the Year award after an electrifying first season where he slashed .284/.345/.509 with 28 home runs and 25 stolen bases. The tools, production and hype are all there for Rodriguez to become a true superstar. His 2021 Topps Chrome Sapphire #65 is a must-own for any collection and will only grow in value as J-Rod’s career progresses.

Brennan Davis (Chicago Cubs) – Davis has all the makings of being the next great Cubs outfielder as he continues developing in their system. The 2018 second rounder made his MLB debut in 2022 and showed off his five-tool ability. Davis’ prospect cards could spike if he secures an everyday role in Chicago’s lineup next season. His 2021 Bowman Chrome Sapphire #60 is a solid long term prospecting target.

Jack Leiter (Texas Rangers) – As the number two overall pick from 2021, Leiter dominated in his first full pro season between High-A and Double-A with a combined 2.81 ERA and 155 strikeouts in 111 innings. His prospect cards exploded and will remain hot commodities if he progresses up the Rangers system quickly. Leiter has true ace upside and his 2021 Bowman Chrome Sapphire Auto #71 is a stellar pickup.

George Kirby (Seattle Mariners) – Kirby made impressive strides in his first full MLB campaign, going 7-3 with a 3.39 ERA as a rookie. The 2019 first rounder has the repertoire to be a solid mid-rotation starter for years. His prospect cards from 2021 Topps products are relatively affordable and carry low risk with high upside if Kirby continues establishing himself in Seattle’s rotation.

Eury Perez (Tampa Bay Rays) – As one of the top international prospects signed in July 2022, Perez is already turning heads in his professional debut stateside. The athletic 17-year old outfielder has five-tool potential and could develop into a true star. His 2022 Topps Chrome Sapphire Green Auto #150 is a lottery ticket that could pay big dividends down the road as Perez rises up prospect rankings.

Focusing on emerging young talents like Witt, Torkelson, House, Cruz, Rutschman, Rodriguez, Davis, Leiter, Kirby and Perez offers collectors opportunities to get in early on players who have superstar upside. Their rookie cards and top prospect cards represent strong long-term investments, especially if they blossom into the impact players their raw abilities indicate they can become. Following the development of these rising stars in 2023 and beyond should provide plenty of excitement for baseball card investors.

2023 TOPPS SERIES 1 MLB BASEBALL BLASTER BOX TRADING CARDS

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The 2023 Topps Series 1 MLB Baseball trading card blaster box is one of the most anticipated trading card releases each year. As the flagship set that kicks off the new baseball season, Series 1 captures all the excitement and intrigue surrounding the upcoming year. Inside each $20 blaster box, collectors can find a fun assortment of base cards, inserts, and autographs or memorabilia cards of their favorite players and teams.

Topps has been producing MLB trading cards since 1952 and has evolved the design and photography over the decades to provide the most up-to-date and innovative look each year. For 2023, Topps continues their tradition of crisp action shots and clean design elements on the base cards while also including several new insert sets and parallels to excite collectors. With players on all 30 MLB teams included across various levels of rarity, there is something in each 2023 Topps Series 1 blaster box for fans of every club.

The base cards make up the bulk of any Series 1 blaster box with approximately 30-35 cards in each assortment. For 2023, Topps continues with their vertical design that places the player photo front and center along with their team logo and uniform colors prominently displayed. Player names, positions, and vital stats are neatly organized along the right side of the card. The clean and simple design allows the high-quality action photos to truly shine. Topps photographers capture every expressive moment from spring training through the regular season to give collectors a wide array of emotional and dramatic poses. Ranging from rookie debuts to veteran milestones, each base card tells a visual story of the upcoming baseball year.

Along with the standard base cards, Topps also includes several parallel and insert sets in Series 1 to add more variety and chase cards for collectors. Some of the most popular parallels include the Rainbow Foil variants, available in Gold, Silver, and Red colors. These parallel cards feature extra foil layering and texturing on the player photos and borders for a premium look. Also included are the Green Shimmer parallels with a subtle iridescent shine. Topps also debuts new insert sets each year like Opening Day, All-Star Voting, and Topps Now Moments to highlight key events and performances from the early season. Collectors can find short prints, autographs, and memorabilia cards among the inserts as exciting hits.

While base cards make up the bulk of each blaster box, the real chase is finding one of the coveted autograph or memorabilia cards hidden throughout the release. Topps guarantees at least one hit card per box on average. Possible autographed cards can feature rookie signatures, All-Stars, and veteran talent from across the league. Memorabilia cards may contain patches, bat pieces, or other unique artifacts paired with corresponding player photos. Landing a star rookie like Julio Rodriguez or a legend like Albert Pujols would be a true thrill for any collector. With approximately 6 cards per pack and 9 packs per blaster box, the suspense of each pull makes the 2023 Topps Series 1 opening experience extremely fun and engaging.

Beyond the on-card content, Topps also includes additional extras in their blaster boxes. Each box contains a voucher for a digital Topps NOW Moments card redeemable via the Topps application. Collectors can also find promotional baseball cards or stickers of fan-favorite mascots and ballpark food items. Topps even includes pack-pulling tips, checklists, and baseball trivia inserts to enhance the overall trading card collecting experience. These bonus materials add further value for the $20 MSRP cost of each 2023 Topps Series 1 blaster box.

While hobby boxes provide the best overall card quality and hits on average, the accessible blaster box format remains one of the most popular ways for fans and collectors to join in the excitement of each new Topps Series 1 MLB release. Guaranteeing at least one hit card like an autograph or relic along with 30-35 base cards, parallels, and inserts, the blaster box delivers excellent bang for the buck. With crisp photography, clean design, and the thrill of the pack-pull experience – 2023 Topps Series 1 MLB Baseball blaster boxes are a must-have for any sports card collector this season. Fans can find them on shelves at major retailers nationwide starting in February 2023.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 2023 LIST

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Topps launched its 2023 baseball card product line in late summer of 2022, providing fans and collectors a first look at what to expect from the iconic brand in the new year. As the exclusive licensed producer of MLB cards, Topps unveiled a wide range of products at different price points to appeal to all levels of the hobby. Let’s breakdown some of the key sets and highlights from the Topps 2023 baseball cards lineup.

The flagship Topps Series 1 release kicked things off, as it does each season. For 2023, Topps Series 1 contained a base set of 334 cards plus additional inserts. The Topps Project 70 parallels returned, featuring special designs commemorating Topps’ 70th anniversary of producing baseball cards. An exciting rookie class headlined Series 1, including potential superstars like Julio Rodriguez, Bobby Witt Jr., Adley Rutschman and more. Veterans and all-time greats like Albert Pujols and Miguel Cabrera also received prominent base cards as their careers wind down.

Topps Series 2 followed in the subsequent months, building on the first release with another base set approaching 350 total cards. This set saw emerging young talents like Oneil Cruz and Spencer Strider join the rookie class alongside established veterans. Unique inserts in Series 2 paid tribute to team milestones, anniversary seasons, and record breakers from the past year. Parallels in the second series carried on the vintage-inspired Project 70 design in reduced print runs.

Chrome and Chrome Update brought collector-favorite refractors to the 2023 lineup. The standard Chrome set included all the biggest rookies and stars on their slick card stock. Chrome Update provided an extension of the base rookie class later in the season. Topps Chrome is renowned for its low print runs and tough pulls, making hits highly coveted. Numbered parallels like Gold, Black, and Rainbow Foil Amp parallels added extreme rarity and value.

For the high-end segment, Topps Finest delivered its exquisite on-card autographs and memorabilia cards. Finest Autographs provided 1/1 exclusive ink for many top talents, while Finest Patch Cards featured precious uniform swatches. Finest also incorporated technology with Augmented Reality features bringing certain cards to life. Numbered parallels like Gold ,Gold Wave and Titanium parallels pushed the chase.

Outside of the core annual sets, Topps paid homage to many eras and milestones. Topps Archives recalled classic designs throughout history. Topps Heritage celebrated the original designs from the late 1960s. Topps Triple Threads inserted rare tri-relic memorabilia cards of legends past and present. Topps Museum Collection provided exquisite wood and acetate cards spotlighting major achievements.

Limited edition parallels like Green Shimmers, Gold Signals and Black Gold Press Proofs introduced an element of scarcity. Higher-end releases like Definitive captured the likes of Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani on 1/1 plates with exquisite printing. Topps Allen & Ginter incorporated baseball stars into its non-sport set featuring intriguing parallels and hit chances.

Fan-favorite inserts returned as always. Topps traded players and managers on cardboard throughout the season. Topps Now captured milestone moments within days on special issues. Topps Photo Hits showcased amazing action shots. Topps Tiffany provided luxurious gems for serious collectors. Various insert sets paid tribute to legends, honored milestones or celebrated special club anniversaries.

Topps continued building on product innovations started in recent years. Entry-level sets featured dynamic designs. Digital platforms like Topps BUNT and Topps NOW connected collectors online. Loyalty programs rewarded longtime hobbyists. In-person signings and special packs enriched the collecting experience. Collabs with brands outside of sports linked to new audiences.

With rookies like Julius, Rutschman and Witt establishing themselves, veterans like Judge smashing records, and legends like Pujols saying farewell – 2023 had all the makings of an epic season on and off the diamond. Topps promised to continue documenting it all with its extensive baseball card coverage. With creative new sets, evolving inserts, sought-after parallels and technological evolutions – Topps aimed to keep collectors engaged throughout another memorable year in America’s pastime.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 2023 AMAZON

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Topps Baseball Cards 2023: An Overview of the Popular Product Line on Amazon

Topps has long been the dominant force in the baseball card industry, producing high quality trading cards featuring players and teams from Major League Baseball for over 70 years. With another baseball season approaching in 2023, Topps is once again releasing new card products that collectors can find for sale on Amazon. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular Topps baseball card releases for the upcoming year and what collectors can expect to find.

2023 Topps Series 1 Baseball Cards – One of the flagship yearly releases from Topps, the 2023 Series 1 box and pack products began shipping in late February/early March across various retail outlets including Amazon. As with past years, the base card design utilizes a clean photographic style with minimal graphics. Rookies, stars and key players from the 2022 season are well represented throughout the base set. Collectors can find Insert cards featuring Topps Now Moments from the previous season as well as Legacy cards honoring greats of the past. Hobby boxes contain 24 packs with approximately 18 cards per pack including several Inserts. With its affordable price point and wide distribution, Series 1 is the perfect set for new and casual collectors to start or expand their collection.

2023 Topps Heritage Baseball Cards – Topps Heritage has become a highly anticipated annual release that pays tribute to the classic baseball card designs of the past. The 2023 edition utilizes retro aesthetic styles from the 1950s-1980s to frame crisp action photography on the cards. As with standard Heritage sets, the base card selection highlights top active MLB talents. Every Heritage box and jumbo pack contains numerous Serial Numbered Parallels as well as tough Insert cards such as Photo Variations, Masters of the Game, and Legacy Legends. Hobby boxes contain 18 packs and Jumbo packs have 36 cards including Inserts. Heritage generally has a lower print run than Series 1 and often features some of the more coveted rookie cards, making it a must-have set for avid collectors.

2023 Topps Chrome Baseball Refractors – Building off the success of past years, Topps Chrome 2023 delivers modern “Chrome” style refractors for the latest MLB stars and prospects. Sharp photography pops against vivid colored borders on each refracted card stock. Beyond the base cards, Chrome boxes feature several bonus packs containing Numerous Serial Numbered Parallels and hard-signed Memorabilia cards from top active players. Hobby boxes contain 12 packs with 7 refracted cards apiece. As one of the shiniest and most aesthetically pleasing sets each year, Chrome draws significant interest from collectors both casual and advanced. The refractor technology used adds value for those seeking high-end cards of future Hall of Famers.

2023 Topps Tier One Baseball – Considered the crème de la crème among flagship Topps baseball releases, Tier One celebrates elite present-day players through exquisite photography and extravagant parallels. Within each Tier One box, collectors find 4 autograph cards and 4 memorabilia cards pulled randomly from a vast insert checklist of superstars. Serial numbered parallels range from /25 to 1/1 and include prized designs like Rainbow Foil, Aqua Shimmers, Orange Magmas and Gold Medallions. With only a limited quantity produced, Tier One boxes command steep prices but offer collectors a chance at true grail cards that increase substantially in value over time. For the most hardcore of collectors, it’s the Holy Grail of yearly Topps baseball releases.

2023 Topps National Baseball Card Day Special Edition – To celebrate the annual summer tradition known as National Baseball Card Day, Topps creates a unique special edition set only available at participating retail outlets like Amazon stores. The 2023 National Baseball Card Day set will showcase fresh aesthetics distinct from the flagship series while still highlighting top tier current MLB talent. In the past, these special sets have utilized innovative card designs along with hit-filled bonus packs. Although produced in lower quantities, National Baseball Card Day sets offer excited novice and experienced collectors a unique exclusive lineup only found through select promotional releases each August.

In addition to the headliner products outlined above, Topps also produces parallel and mini card sets accompanying each major release that are stocked on Amazon. This includes high-value Serial Numbered Parallels of the base cards down to ultra-low print 1/1 variations. For team/league oriented collectors, yearly Topps Stadium Club, Allen & Ginter, Diamond Kings and Archives sets are also great options. And for those focused on MLB’s top prospects, Bowman Chrome and Draft Picks + Prospects provide looks ahead to the future stars just breaking in. Overall, 2023 shaping up to deliver another outstanding year of collectibles from Topps for baseball card collectors of all stripes to enjoy on Amazon.

So whether diving into their first baseball card product or seeking additions to a long-standing collection, Topps continues delivering top quality on-field photos and memorabilia cards of today’s MLB greats through their extensive 2023 line. Savvy collectors understand Topps dominance in the market and regularly turn to Amazon as a premier destination to seek out the latest releases at competitive prices. With another baseball season on the horizon, 2023 figures to be an exciting year for Topps and collectors alike.