Tag Archives: 2023

2023 TOPPS CHROME COSMIC BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 Topps Chrome Cosmic baseball card set is one of the most anticipated releases of the upcoming year. As the flagship Chrome product from Topps, Chrome is always highly sought after by collectors due to the sharp photography and refractors that make the cards shimmer. The Cosmic parallels take things to an entirely new level.

Topps Chrome has been around since 1991 and features current Major League players photographed with a chrome backdrop. What makes the cards really pop are the refractors – inserts with refractory layers that bend light in spectacular fashion. In recent years, Topps has added exciting parallel sets to Chrome like Negative Refractors, Rainbow Foil, and Galactic parallels featuring deep space imagery.

For 2023, Topps is continuing this trend of pushing the boundaries of card design with the all-new Cosmic parallels. Inspired by the awe and mystery of the cosmos, these parallel cards feature vivid nebula photography blended directly onto the player image. When held to the light, the nebulae appear to swirl and move like deep space clouds. It’s sure to be a true collector’s marvel.

Details on the Cosmic parallels are still emerging, but early reports indicate there will be three main tiers – Cosmic, Cosmic Refractors, and 1/1 Cosmic Nebula parallels. The base Cosmic cards will utilize nebula imagery behind the player photos and have odds around 1 in 10 packs. Cosmic Refractors crank things up a notch with refractory technology, making the nebulae dance and flow on the surface. These are projected to have odds of 1 in 100 packs or greater.

The true holy grails of the set will be the 1/1 Cosmic Nebula parallels. Each of these one-of-one parallels will feature a completely unique nebula photograph blended onto the front of the card. No two 1/1 Cosmic Nebula cards will look exactly the same, making each one an absolute work of astronomical art. While pull rates for these are unknown, collectors can expect them to be incredibly rare chase cards.

In addition to the main Cosmic parallels, Topps is also including several Cosmic variations of the popular Chrome refractors like Negative, Rainbow Foil, and Galactic parallels. These will take the refractory technology of those inserts and marry it with nebula imagery for truly mesmerizing visual effects. Collectors can look forward to Cosmic Negative refractors bending light in nebula clouds and Cosmic Rainbow Foil parallels shimmering with cosmic colors.

When it comes to photography, Topps really outdid themselves capturing the players for 2023 Chrome. Using advanced cameras and lighting techniques, the images have an unprecedented level of sharpness and clarity. With the Cosmic parallels blending vivid nebulae directly into these high resolution photos, the end result is sure to be spellbinding. Each card almost looks like a tiny window into the cosmos itself.

Of course, the biggest question for any new parallel set release is always player selection. While full details haven’t been announced yet, early rumors indicate Topps has secured rights from MLB and the MLBPA to include the entire Chrome base set roster in Cosmic parallels. This means rookies, stars, and future Hall of Famers all have a chance to appear blended with nebulae.

Rookies will be especially coveted, as any Cosmic parallel of a top prospect like Druw Jones or Termarr Johnson could foreshadow future stardom. Veteran stars like Mike Trout, Shohei Ohtani, and Aaron Judge will undoubtedly drive collector demand as well. And who wouldn’t want a 1/1 Cosmic Nebula parallel of a legend like Barry Bonds swirling in the cosmos?

When Topps Chrome Cosmic releases in late 2023, expect it to create huge buzz throughout the entire sports card community. Between the innovative design blending astronomy photography with player images and the allure of chasing 1/1 nebula parallels, the set is primed to be a true collector phenomenon. While pack odds for hits remain unknown, boxes and cases are almost certain to fly off shelves.

For the growing number of collectors fascinated by space as well as sports, Topps Chrome Cosmic looks to deliver a true multi-fandom crossover experience. Each card will feel like holding a little piece of the universe in your hands. Whether you’re looking for PC hits, key rookies, or iconic veterans, the 2023 Topps Chrome Cosmic set promises to have something for everyone. It may just become the new pinnacle release that other sports card products will be judged against.

2023 TOPPS SERIES 2 BASEBALL MOST VALUABLE CARDS

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The release of 2023 Topps Series 2 Baseball is one of the most anticipated yearly releases in the hobby. While Series 1 typically features rookie cards of the top prospects and debut year cards of established veterans, Series 2 often contains the chase cards that become long term investments. Let’s take a look at some of the top cards from the 2023 Topps Series 2 release that have the potential to greatly increase in value over time.

One of the headlining rookie cards in this year’s Series 2 is Detroit Tigers outfielder Riley Greene. As the fifth overall pick in the 2019 MLB Draft, Greene had a breakout season in 2022 where he slashed .250/.326/.390 with 8 home runs and 32 RBI in 98 games as a 21-year-old. He showed off elite bat speed and solid defense in center field. Greene is considered a future star and his rookie cards have been hotly sought after. His base rookie card can currently be found for around $30-40 raw, but this price is likely to rise significantly as Greene develops into a perennial All-Star. His autograph and memorabilia cards fetch prices well over $100 already.

Another young star whose cards hold tremendous long term value potential is Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez. At just 21-years-old, Rodriguez had a phenomenal rookie campaign in 2022 where he slashed .284/.345/.509 with 28 home runs and 75 RBI. He finished second in AL Rookie of the Year voting and wowed fans with highlight reel catches and throws in the outfield. Rodriguez’s base rookie card from Series 1 can currently be found for around $50-75, but his autographed and memorabilia cards have already eclipsed the $1000 price point. As Rodriguez continues developing into a true five-tool superstar, his cards stand to gain exponentially in value over the coming years.

While rookies often command the highest prices, Series 2 also features valuable cards showcasing baseball’s biggest stars. One of the most coveted veteran cards is likely to be Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman’s base card. After winning the World Series in 2021 with the Atlanta Braves, Freeman signed a big free agent deal with the Dodgers in 2022. As a career .295 hitter and five-time All-Star, Freeman is one of the premier hitters of his generation. His 2023 Topps Series 2 base card will be his first in a Dodgers uniform and could settle in the $50-75 range once the dust settles. Freeman is still in his prime at 33-years-old and should continue producing at an elite level for years to come, making his Dodger cards a sound investment.

Another Dodgers star who could have a valuable Series 2 card is outfielder Mookie Betts. After helping lead LA to the 2020 World Series title, Betts has established himself as one of the faces of the franchise. The 2018 AL MVP is a career .301 hitter who is still in the early 30s. Betts’ base card from Series 2 will likely carry an initial price tag around $50-75 as well. What makes Betts’ card especially intriguing is his potential for autographed and memorabilia cards. As one of the most popular players in the game today, Betts’ signed cards often sell in the $500-1000 range and could appreciate substantially given his continued production and star power.

While rookies and established stars usually command top dollar, Series 2 also frequently features valuable short print and parallel card variations that become highly sought after chase cards. One parallel with breakout potential this year is the Topps ’86 Design parallel. Featuring a retro design harkening back to 1986 Topps, these parallel cards are inserted at extremely low rates across all Series 2 blaster and hobby boxes. Players like Greene, Rodriguez, Freeman, Betts and more could see their ’86 Design parallels fetch prices well over $100 each as the set gains popularity. Another potential chase parallel is the Topps Chrome Refractor variation. Printed on a foil substrate with vivid colors, Refractors of top rookies and stars often settle in the $200-500 range depending on the player.

In addition to base cards and parallels, autograph and memorabilia cards tend to hold the greatest long term value potential. Series 2 is expected to feature prized rookie autographs of Greene, Rodriguez and more. Autographs of established veterans like Freeman and Betts will also be in high demand. While initial prices may range from $100-1000+, these autographed cards stand to gain exponentially with each passing year as the players’ careers progress. Memorabilia cards featuring game-used or worn materials are also highly coveted. Rookie patch cards of Greene, Rodriguez and others could settle in the $500-1000 range initially. Multi-relic cards with autographs are true blue chip investments that may fetch $1000+ right out of the gate.

In summary, 2023 Topps Series 2 Baseball is primed to feature many valuable cards at the rookie and veteran levels that have breakout potential. While initial prices will fluctuate based on player performance and hype, top cards like Greene, Rodriguez, Freeman and Betts are sound long term investments. Scarce parallels, autographs and memorabilia cards provide additional opportunities for cards to appreciate substantially in the years to come. For collectors and investors, Topps Series 2 always delivers prized chase cards that can grow into valuable assets. The release is one of the most anticipated yearly events in the hobby for good reason.

2023 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS PREVIEW

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The 2023 Topps baseball card release is one of the most highly anticipated issues in recent years. Topps has big plans to celebrate 75 years of producing America’s favorite baseball cards. Here’s an in-depth look at what collectors can expect from the flagship Topps baseball set releasing in February 2023.

The base card design pays homage to classic Topps designs from the 1950s and 1960s. The cards will have a vertical orientation and feature bold primary color borders along with a simple team logo at the top. Player names, positions, and stats will be printed in classic font styles. Topps is aiming to capture the nostalgic feel of the early years of the brand with this retro-inspired base card design. Parallels and insert sets will also utilize similar classic aesthetic themes.

Rookies will again be the chase for collectors. Topps rookies of superstars like Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto from recent years have shattered records on the secondary market. Some of the top rookie cards to watch for in the 2023 set include Julio Rodriguez, Bobby Witt Jr., Adley Rutschman, and Oneil Cruz. Topps has also teased “one of the biggest short prints in years” as part of the rookie card checklist.

The base set will feature 750 cards as usual. Insert sets will include Topps Chrome, Photo Variations, Negative Photographs, and Topps Fire inserts with red-hot parallels. The popular Topps Now program will continue with hits featuring up-to-the-minute performances and milestones from the 2022 season. Topps Allen & Ginter-inspired Nature Name Variations and Museum Collection wood grain parallels are anticipated inserts as well.

To celebrate their 75th anniversary, Topps is including an oversized card in every hobby box and special anniversary logos/designs throughout the set. The highly coveted 1/1 card is rumored to feature a retired player no longer featured in Topps sets. Autograph and memorabilia cards will include on-card and relic signatures of both current stars and legends from Topps history. Box loaders and promotional materials will also have a retro look and feel.

Parallels are sure to be a big part of the anniversary release. Topps usually includes several parallel variations like gold, silver, black, and rainbow foil. For the 75th anniversary, expect parallels printed on specialty stock like acetate, mylar, and embossed foil. Numbered parallels will likely be limited to 75 copies or less as a nod to the milestone year. Topps’ popular Chrome and negative photo parallels are also anticipated to have special anniversary treatments.

Ebay will be abuzz with early unopened box breaks and case breaks as the release date approaches. Pre-orders are already selling out at major card shops and online retailers. Based on early buzz and collector demand, the 2023 Topps baseball release is shaping up to be one of the most valuable modern issues yet. Prices for unopened boxes are estimated to start around $150-200 each and work their way up from there depending on parallel/hit odds. Individual hobby packs can be found for $5-10 each.

Topps has also announced special Diamond Anniversary packs available exclusively to members of their Topps Loyalty Club. These packs will feature guaranteed hits like autographs, relics, and 1/1 parallels pulled directly from the flagship release at reduced odds. Loyalty Club membership is free but packs will likely sell out fast. It’s a great perk for diehard Topps collectors.

In addition to the traditional cardboard release, Topps is venturing further into the digital collecting space with Topps NFTs. The Topps NFT platform allows collectors to purchase, trade, and redeem physical cards from Topps releases. For the 2023 baseball release, Topps NFTs will feature special animated parallels only available in digital form. Holders can redeem these 1-of-1 animated cards for physical versions with authentication. It’s an intriguing new model that blends physical and digital collecting.

The 2023 Topps baseball release is primed to be a monumental anniversary set. With retro designs, big rookie class, abundant parallels and hits, and special anniversary treatments – it has all the makings of a true flagship release. Savvy collectors are already making plans and setting aside funds for what’s sure to be one of the crown jewels of any sports card collection when it arrives in February. After 75 years, Topps continues to deliver the cards that baseball card collectors worldwide cherish.

TEAM USA BASEBALL CARDS 2023

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With the formation of a new squad for the 2023 World Baseball Classic, collectors can expect a fresh set of Team USA baseball cards to be released in the coming year. These specialized cards commemorate some of the top American players coming together to represent their country in international competition.

Topps has the exclusive license to produce official Team USA and World Baseball Classic cards, so they will likely release an entire set focused on the stars selected for the national team roster. Past Team USA sets from the 2009, 2013, and 2017 WBC tournaments featured 84-90 cards each with various parallels and short printed cards for chase aspects.

The 2023 team, to be managed by Portland Sea Dogs skipper Joe Ostrowski, will feature many of the biggest names in MLB given players’ increased interest in participating in the tournament. Some early favorites to land spots on the roster and get their own baseball cards include superstars Mike Trout, Mookie Betts, Bryce Harper, and Aaron Judge. Injuries or other commitments may prevent one or more from suiting up for Team USA.

Regardless of the final roster, fans can expect Topps to produce base cards, inserts, parallels, and autographs chronicling this collection of top American talent. Previous Team USA sets featured base cards with dynamic action photography showcasing the players in their Stars and Stripes uniforms. Inserts often paid homage to past championship teams or highlighted position players at each fielding spot. Parallel and short print variations added to the allure of chasing complete rainbow sets.

Autograph cards would be a major draw for collectors, featuring signed swatches of memorabilia from players’ USA uniforms. Topps Smart Hits Autograph cards are a specialty within baseball card inserts where fans can interact with the hit digitally. Topps has also included 3D Lenticular cards using innovative lens technology to create moving images on past Team USA cards.

Given the star power that could be included, a Topps autograph of someone like Trout, Betts, or Harper would be exceptionally rare and valuable. Low numbered parallels and short prints of big names would also draw intense interest. Complete sets may even carry a premium comparable to Topps flagship releases due to international popularity.

Secondary insert sets have previously paid tribute to past USA championship teams and individual tournament stars. Additional inserts for the 2023 release could highlight memorable past WBC performances by Team USA or even moments in the history of international baseball. Team and position player breakdown cards, as well as cards focusing on individual tournament matchups, are other potential inserts.

Parallels have differentiated Team USA sets in the past, including popular gold and red refractors. Rainbow foil, sepia, negative, and fluorescent ink variations have added levels of rarity. Numbered parallels below /25 or especially /10 draw intense collector demand. Short printed chase cards below /5 with premier stars are nearly impossible to acquire. These parallels are where the biggest monetary value accrues over time.

Considering the star power and international appeal, a complete 2023 Team USA base set alone could carry substantial resale value in future years. But the autograph, parallel, and chase card inserts drive true monetary worth as rarities become even more coveted holdings. While release details remain unknown, Topps has typically supported Team USA releases with adequate retail packs plus hobby boxes optimized for parallel and short print searching. Pre-orders and release party exclusives may be available too.

The pool of potential Players for Team USA’s 2023 WBC roster runs deep. Homegrown talents like Vladimir Guerrero Jr, Juan Soto, Ronald Acuna Jr, and Albert Pujols have represented their countries of origin but could also be recruited. Domestic stars including Shohei Ohtani, Rafael Devers, Anthony Rizzo, and Jake Cronenworth strengthen the squad. Top international prospects signing with MLB clubs also become eligible.

Regardless of who makes the final cut, collectors will eagerly anticipate breakers ripping cases of the upcoming Topps Team USA baseball card release. Chasing hits of elite players competing under Old Glory’s banner adds extra patriotic passion to the beloved hobby of card collecting. The 2023 cards promise to commemorate another inspiring collection of American baseball greats coming together for international glory.

TOPPS 2023 SERIES 2 BASEBALL CARDS REVIEW

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Topps kicked off its 2023 baseball card season with Series 1 in early March. Now in late June, the brand has released Series 2, continuing its effort to capture the moments and players of the current MLB season. Series 2 features many young stars, veterans, and top rookies from the league in poses and uniforms updated to reflect where they are at mid-season.

Like Series 1, Topps 2023 Series 2 baseball cards come in traditional wax packs, blaster boxes, and hobby boxes. Wax packs contain 9 cards including 1 insert or parallel per pack and retail for around $1. Blasters hold 20 packs and sell for $20-25, while hobby boxes have 12 packs and carry an MSRP of $95. Hobby boxes tend to have higher odds of hitting coveted autograph and memorabilia cards in addition to the base rookies and stars that might be pulled from retail.

When reviewing the checklist, it’s clear that Topps continues focusing on releasing cards for the biggest names and breakout players. Cover athletes Shohei Ohtani of the Angels and Ronald Acuña Jr. of the Braves naturally have base cards as leaders of the AL and NL. Rookies like Bobby Witt Jr. of the Royals, Adley Rutschman of the Orioles, and Julio Rodriguez of the Mariners have multiple cards reflecting their stellar debut campaigns. Veterans like Mike Trout, Aaron Judge, and Juan Soto are also well represented as perennial All-Stars and award winners.

Some of the more unique base cards in Series 2 pay homage to past and present milestones. There is a card showing Giancarlo Stanton after hitting his 300th home run and another of Albert Pujols facing towards 3,000 career hits. A card picturing Nolan Arenado and Paul Goldschmidt represents their new partnership on the Cardinals after recent trades. Rookie standouts like Witt Jr. and Rutschman have “post-hype” base cards displaying their continued production at the MLB level.

Parallels are back in Series 2 and provide cardboard collectors alternate versions of the base cards. The most common are the Gold Foil parallels numbered to 2021 copies, giving fans a shinier take on their favorite players. Other parallels like Retro Black, Rainbow Foil, and Green Border provide lower print runs and alternate art designs that amp up the scarcity and appeal for enthusiasts. Topps even brought back the fan-favorite Walmart “Blaster/Hobby” parallels exclusive to select retail boxes adding more chase variations.

When it comes to inserts, Topps integrates numerous hit-predicting and retro-styled fan favorites. “This Is My Year” highlights players primed for a breakout season statistically. “Archive” pulls from Topps’ decades of designs for a vintage baseball card aesthetic. “Topps Now” honors up-to-the-moment performances right from the field into collectors’ hands. “Photo variation” inserts use live-action shots straight from Topps’ archive of imagery. Returning inserts like “Legends”, “Rainy Day”, and “Black Border” add layer upon layer of cardboard nostalgia.

Autograph and memorabilia cards remain the real chase hits for hobby enthusiasts. Topps continues employing on-card autographed swatches of fabric, leather, or material from game-worn jerseys and caps. Serial-numbered parallels like Foundations, Spectrum, and Rainbow Foil Amp’d provide lower print runs and signatures of stars on premium materials. Topps even includes a small number of 1/1 printing plates and patch autograph monsters as true gems for super-collectors. With teams fully operational again in 2023, Topps has ample fresh game-used gear to fashion creative memorabilia cards from current season action.

While not deviating too far from the established 2023 Series 1 template, Topps Series 2 evolves the checklist and inserts at all levels to engage collectors. Whether seeking affordable packed goods at retail or chasing rare autographed treasures from hobby boxes, the newest series caters to baseball card fans across all levels of interest. Featuring top young stars and veterans amid another exciting MLB season, Topps 2023 Series 2 looks to continue building on the brand’s legacy of documenting America’s pastime through collectible cardboard. Whether completing sets or hunting hits, Series 2 gives hobbyists all the excuse they need to crack more packs this summer in hopes of landing their next prized addition to their baseball card collection.

HOTTEST BASEBALL ROOKIE CARDS 2023

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The 2023 baseball season saw an incredible crop of talented rookies make their MLB debuts and immediately make an impact on the field. This new wave of stars is already creating a buzz and driving interest among collectors for their rookie cards. With another exciting season now in the books, here’s a look at some of the hottest rookie cards on the market as we head into the offseason from the group of players who made their big league debuts in 2023.

Spencer Strider, Atlanta Braves – The flamethrowing righty dazzled in his first full season, establishing himself as the Braves’ ace. His stellar 2.67 ERA and 202 strikeouts put him in the conversation for Rookie of the Year. Strider’s prized rookie card is his Topps Chrome Silver Pack Refractor RC, numbered to just 99 copies. Examples have already sold for over $1,000 on the secondary market. Look for his cards to gain even more value if he stays healthy and continues dominating next year.

Bobby Witt Jr., Kansas City Royals – After a strong rookie campaign where he showed five-tool potential and played Gold Glove-caliber defense at third base, Witt is considered the future face of the Royals franchise. The #2 pick in the 2019 draft also displayed plus speed and power. His Topps Chrome Blue Refractor RC holds immense appeal for collectors and has eclipsed $500 in recent sales. Witt could end up being one of the best all-around players of this rookie class.

Oneil Cruz, Pittsburgh Pirates – At 6-foot-7 with ridiculous raw power, Cruz was one of the sport’s most exciting prospects even before he reached the majors. He gave Pirates fans a glimpse of his true ability down the stretch in 2023 and looks poised for stardom. His Loulseville Slugger Authentic Stadium Club Chrome RC could become one of the pricier cards from this rookie crop if Cruz fulfills his superstar ceiling.

Ryan Pepiot, Los Angeles Dodgers – Not many rookies had the luxury of pitching for a perennial juggernaut like the Dodgers, but Pepiot took advantage with an impressive 3.18 ERA in 13 starts. His control and four above-average pitches give him mid-rotation potential. The Dodgers pitcher’s Topps Chrome Sapphire Refractor RC could be a blue chip card in the years to come if he continues developing in LA’s system.

Alek Manoah, Toronto Blue Jays – The hulking righty was already establishing himself as the ace of Toronto’s staff before a late-season elbow injury. When healthy, few pitchers are as dominating as the 6-foot-6 Manoah with his mid-90s fastball and veteran savvy. His 2021 Topps Chrome Sapphire Refractor RC, numbered to just 10 copies, is the crown jewel among Manoah RC cards.

Jarren Duran, Boston Red Sox – After a disappointing 2023 season where he battled injuries and inconsistency at the plate, Duran still has tantalizing five-tool upside that could make his cards valuable long-term prospects. He brings elite speed and defensive skills to the outfield and his raw power is starting to show more in games. Duran’s 2021 Bowman’s Best Chrome Autograph RC could be a sleeper if he puts it all together.

Steven Kwan, Cleveland Guardians – Already a fan favorite and budding star atop Cleveland’s order, Kwan finished third in ROY voting after hitting .298 in his first full season. At just 5-foot-9, the lefty hits for average and gets on base at an elite clip. Kwan’s 2022 Topps Opening Day Blue Refractor RC has impressed collectors and looks to gain more traction as he cements his role.

Adley Rutschman, Baltimore Orioles – After years of hype as the top prospect in baseball, Rutschman lived up to expectations by controlling the heart of Baltimore’s order as a rookie. The switch-hitting catcher showed why he’s considered the future face of the franchise. Rutschman’s prized 2021 Bowman Chrome Autograph Refractor RC is a true blue chip and will be a hot commodity for years.

Seph Straw, Houston Astros – A versatile defender capable of playing all over the diamond, Straw settled in as Houston’s starting centerfielder in 2023. He made highlight-reel catches, stole bases, and got on base at a high clip from the top of the order. Straw’s 2022 Topps Heritage Minors RC Autograph is one to watch long-term as he continues establishing himself in the Astros’ young core.

This class featured many more talented rookies who all have the potential to become future stars. From power hitters like Michael Harris and Luis Robert to flamethrowers like George Kirby and Braxton Garrett, there are endless options for collectors to pursue. With another exciting MLB season now in the books, the hottest rookie cards from 2023 set the stage for what’s sure to be an intriguing offseason in the collectibles market.

2023 BASEBALL CARDS COMPLETE SET

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The 2023 baseball season is right around the corner, which means new baseball card sets are starting to hit the shelves from all the major manufacturers. Putting together a complete set from the flagship releases is a fun hobby for both kids and adults alike. Each year brings updated rosters, rookie cards of the game’s future stars, and parallels/short prints that add to the excitement of the hunt. Let’s take a closer look at some of the major 2023 baseball card releases and what collectors can expect to find if trying to complete each set.

Topps Baseball (Hobby Box): As the longest running and most iconic brand in the industry, Topps’ standard baseball card release is always one of the most anticipated each year. The 2023 Topps base set contains a total of 132 cards, with the standard checklist including all 30 MLB teams along with manager, rookie, and award winner cards. Topps also includes several parallels and inserts in their hobby boxes that add to the challenge of completing the set. Rainbow foil, negative photo variations, and red/blue/gold parallels are some of the more common “hits” collectors can expect to find. Top rookies to watch for include Julio Rodriguez, Bobby Witt Jr., and Spencer Strider. The design has a classic Topps look featuring action shots on a white background.

Topps Chrome (Hobby Box): Topps’ refractor parallel release is a fan favorite each year. The 2023 Topps Chrome base set mirrors the 132 card checklist of the standard issue but all cards feature a shiny refracted photo. Topps Chrome packs also contain several short printed parallels like black, gold, and red that make completing the set very difficult without trades. The refracted photos give these cards a very premium look that is appealing to both collectors and investors. Topps Chrome is usually one of the scarcer products to find on shelves each year.

Bowman Baseball (Hobby Box): As the premiere rookie card release, Bowman is where fans get their first look at the next generation of MLB stars each year before they even play a professional game. The 2023 Bowman base set contains 300 cards focused entirely on prospects, draft picks, and international signings. Top prospects like Druw Jones, Termarr Johnson, and Elijah Green lead the way for this year’s class. Bowman also features several parallels and autograph/memorabilia cards that add value. The design has a very classic and clean look featuring headshots of the game’s future stars. Completing the large Bowman base set is a major challenge.

Topps Heritage (Hobby Box): Topps Heritage pays tribute to the classic designs of the 1950s/1960s. The 2023 release features a 144 card base set mimicking the look of the old tobacco era designs. While the checklist is similar to Topps’ standard issue, the true vintage-style design gives these cards a very nostalgic and premium feel. Topps Heritage also contains several parallels and short prints that increase the challenge of completing the set. The true-to-original designs are a big draw for collectors looking to add vintage flair to their collections.

Donruss Baseball (Hobby Box): Donruss returned to the baseball card scene in 2021 after a long hiatus. Their 2023 release features a 300 card base set with a very clean and simple design. While the set is larger than some other flagship releases, Donruss packs offer some of the best value as hits like parallels, autographs, and memorabilia cards are more common pulls. The brand has also done a great job highlighting top prospects in their release each year. Completing the large Donruss set is a major undertaking but offers a unique challenge compared to the other top brands.

Panini Prizm Baseball (Hobby Box): As one of the premiere “hobby-only” brands, Prizm packs a big rookie card punch each year in their baseball release. The 2023 Prizm base set contains a standard 132 cards but packs are loaded with short printed parallels and refractors of the game’s stars. Prizm is known for their “rainbow” parallels that come in several different color variations, making a full parallel set incredibly rare. Autograph and memorabilia cards are also more prevalent pulls compared to some other flagship releases. The modern refracted designs give Prizm a very premium feel that is appealing to high-end collectors.

While putting together a complete set from any of these major 2023 releases is no small task, it’s very rewarding for collectors to track down all the cards through the season. The thrill of the hunt and finding short printed parallels or rookie gems makes it an exciting hobby. With increased interest in the MLB and baseball cards over the past few years, products may be harder to find on shelves. But working the trading market is a big part of the fun as well. Whether it’s the classic designs of Topps, the vintage flair of Heritage, or the modern looks of Prizm – each flagship baseball card set offers a unique collecting challenge for 2023.

2023 ASTROS BASEBALL CARDS

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The Houston Astros are coming off another successful season that saw them make the World Series for the second time in six years. While they ultimately fell short against the Philadelphia Phillies, the Astros remain one of baseball’s premier franchises heading into 2023. With another season on deck, collectors can look forward to a new crop of Astros baseball cards hitting the market highlighting the team’s top stars.

Some of the biggest names to watch for in 2023 Astros baseball card sets include Jose Altuve, Alex Bregman, Justin Verlander, and Yordan Alvarez. Altuve remains the face of the franchise as the longest-tenured Astro and a career .300 hitter. His cards always hold value due to his status as a fan favorite and 2017 World Series MVP. Bregman is another cornerstone player who is coming off a solid 2022 campaign where he hit .259 with 22 home runs and 93 RBI from the hot corner. Verlander, meanwhile, had an age-defying season in his return to Houston, winning the AL Cy Young award at age 39 by going 18-4 with a 1.75 ERA. His cards are sure to be some of the set’s most coveted after such a dominant season. Alvarez further cemented himself as one of baseball’s premier sluggers with 37 home runs and 97 RBI in 2022. The 26-year-old left fielder has already developed a cult following among collectors.

Beyond the big four of Altuve, Bregman, Verlander, and Alvarez, there are several other Astros who could emerge as hot ticket cards in 2023 sets. Shortstop Jeremy Peña had a breakout rookie campaign and is poised to build on a stellar debut season that saw him win World Series MVP honors. His rookie cards from 2022 sets skyrocketed in value and collectors will be eager to snap up his sophomore issues. Outfielder Kyle Tucker also broke out in 2022 with career-highs in batting average (.257), home runs (30), and RBI (107). The 25-year-old is entering his prime and developing into a true five-tool threat. Pitchers Framber Valdez and Luis Garcia further solidified themselves as rotation anchors last season and could see their star rise, especially if they flirt with All-Star or Cy Young consideration in 2023. And don’t forget about catcher Martin Maldonado, who has become a fan favorite for his defense behind the plate and knack for clutch hitting – especially in the postseason.

For collectors, some of the top licensed brands releasing 2023 Astros baseball cards include Topps, Panini, Leaf, Bowman, and Donruss. Each brand brings something unique to the table in terms of photo and design variations as well as special parallels and autograph/memorabilia cards of the team’s stars. Topps Series 1 is usually the first major set to hit shelves each year in late January or early February, offering traders and collectors their initial fix of the newest Astros. From there, sets like Topps Series 2 and Update Series will deliver more cards throughout the spring and summer. Bowman and Panini also offer some of the flashiest parallels and on-card autographs of Houston’s top prospects working their way through the minors.

Speaking of prospects, the Astros farm system remains one of baseball’s best and collectors will want to pay close attention to the emergence of young talents like shortstop Jeremy Pena’s brother Mauro Peña, outfielder Drew Gilbert, and pitchers Hunter Brown and Chayce McDermott. Their rookie cards could explode in value with a strong 2023 campaign. And don’t forget international signings like shortstop Lazarz Brito, who just signed a $5 million bonus in 2022 at only 16 years old. His first Bowman cards may someday be worth a fortune.

As always, special parallel inserts like Topps Chrome, Topps Fire, Topps Inception, and Topps Holiday will give collectors premium versions of stars like Altuve, Verlander, and Alvarez to chase. Autographed and memorabilia cards from brands like Topps Authentic, Panini Impeccable, and Topps Transcendent also provide unique collectibles from Houston’s biggest names. And for diehard Astros fans, sets released around the postseason like Topps Finest offer a chance to potentially land serial-numbered parallels of heroes from October runs.

Whether collecting for investment purposes or to cheer on their favorite team, Astros fans will have no shortage of enticing cardboard to pursue throughout the 2023 season. With a talented roster and farm system, the franchise’s future remains bright on the field. And with the continued production of high-quality baseball cards from the leading sports brands, Houston’s stars are sure to dazzle collectors for years to come as well. The 2023 season can’t come soon enough for those eager to start accumulating the newest Astros issues.

DONRUSS BASEBALL 2023 MOST WANTED CARDS

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Donruss Baseball is back in 2023 with another exciting release featuring their popular “Most Wanted” insert set. This insert set has become a fan favorite in recent years by highlighting some of the most sought-after rookie cards and star players in the hobby.

For 2023, Donruss is continuing their tradition of only including 10 cards in the Most Wanted set. This limited print run makes pulling one of these cards a true thrill for collectors. Some of the biggest names in baseball today are featured, along with several promising young rookies who are poised to become the game’s next superstars.

Let’s take a closer look at each of the 10 cards in the Donruss Baseball 2023 Most Wanted set to see who made the cut this year:

Shohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Angels (Card #1)

There was no doubt that Shohei Ohtani would be the featured card in the #1 spot. As the reigning American League MVP and one of the most exciting two-way players in MLB history, Ohtani is arguably the face of baseball right now. His unique ability to dominate as both a pitcher and hitter makes him must-own for any serious collector. This will undoubtedly be the chase card of the set.

Juan Soto, San Diego Padres (Card #2)

After getting traded from the Nationals at the deadline, Soto took the league by storm in the second half for the Padres. He’s already established himself as one of the game’s best hitters at just 24 years old. Soto signed a massive long-term deal with the Padres in the offseason, cementing his status as a franchise cornerstone. His star power and young age make him a lock for the #2 slot.

Ronald Acuña Jr., Atlanta Braves (Card #3)

When healthy, Acuña is arguably the most electrifying player in MLB thanks to his five-tool talents. Unfortunately injuries have slowed his progress the last two seasons, but he’s still just 25 and has superstar potential if he can stay on the field. As the Braves’ homegrown star, Acuña is a popular inclusion that Atlanta fans will love to pull.

Mike Trout, Los Angeles Angels (Card #4)

There may never be a better all-around baseball player than Mike Trout. Even after over a decade in the big leagues, the 31-year-old Trout is still producing at an MVP level each year. He’s a lock future Hall of Famer and the face of the Angels franchise. Trout is a no-brainer choice for the prestigious #4 slot in the set.

Mookie Betts, Los Angeles Dodgers (Card #5)

Winning the 2018 AL MVP and being a key member of the 2020 Dodgers championship squad has cemented Betts as a modern baseball icon. He’s still in his prime at 30 and is the type of five-tool star that any team would love to build around. Dodger fans will be eager to pull this card of their homegrown superstar playing for a perennial contender.

Aaron Judge, New York Yankees (Card #6)

After smashing an AL record 62 home runs in 2022 and nearly winning the Triple Crown, Judge had an MVP-caliber season for the ages. The 30-year-old slugger then re-signed a massive long-term deal to remain in pinstripes, making him the unquestioned face of Yankees baseball for the foreseeable future. This will be a very popular card for collectors.

Fernando Tatis Jr, San Diego Padres (Card #7)

When healthy, Tatis has established himself as one of the most exciting young stars in baseball. Unfortunately, injuries and an 80-game PED suspension slowed his progress in 2022. But at just 24, Tatis still has superstar potential if he can put it all together. As the Padres’ homegrown face, Tatis makes for an intriguing #7 choice to chase.

Rafael Devers, Boston Red Sox (Card #8)

Devers has emerged as the new star for Red Sox Nation after consecutive All-Star seasons hitting for both power and average. Still just 25, Devers is coming off a 38-home run, career-best 6.1 WAR season and figures to be a cornerstone for Boston’s next contender. East Coast collectors will enjoy hunting this young slugger’s card.

Julio Rodríguez, Seattle Mariners (Card #9)

As the current AL Rookie of the Year, Rodríguez had one of the best debut campaigns in recent memory with 28 home runs and 25 stolen bases. At just 22, J-Rod looks like a budding superstar and the future face of the Mariners franchise. His upside and Mariners fandom make this one of the most sought-after young player cards in the set.

Yordan Alvarez, Houston Astros (Card #10)

Alvarez emerged as one of baseball’s most feared sluggers in 2022 with 37 home runs in only 124 games played. At just 25, the lefty masher has already proven himself capable of MVP-caliber seasons. As a member of the AL West champion Astros, Alvarez makes for a fitting choice to round out the 10-card checklist.

In summary, Donruss has once again assembled an all-star lineup of players for collectors to chase in their 2023 Most Wanted insert set. Featuring established superstars alongside promising young talents, this set has something for fans of every franchise. With only 10 cards printed, finding one of these in a pack will be a true thrill and a prized addition to any collection. The hype around Most Wanted is sure to drive interest in the entire Donruss Baseball release next year. Collectors would be wise to try and track down a complete set of these highly coveted cards.

STARS OF MLB BASEBALL CARDS 2023

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The 2023 MLB baseball card season is shaping up to be another exciting year, as some of the game’s biggest stars from the 2022 season are primed for big cardboard releases. Baseball cards remain one of the most collectible sports memorabilia available, chronicling both individual player accomplishments as well as the shared history of Major League Baseball.

Unsurprisingly, Aaron Judge’s record-setting 2022 campaign with the New York Yankees has made him one of the most sought-after players for collectors next year. After smashing the American League single-season home run record with 62 long balls, Judge is almost certain to appear on baseball cards from the major manufacturers like Topps, Panini, and Leaf. Photogenic rookie cards of Judge from earlier in his career have already increased exponentially in value, so collectors can expect huge demand and rising prices for any 2023 card that captures his historic 162-game domination at the plate.

Along with Judge, Los Angeles Angels two-way star Shohei Ohtani remains one of the faces of MLB. As the first full-time home run-hitting pitcher since Babe Ruth, Ohtani continues living up to unprecedented hype with his on-field play. He won’t have the campaign Judge did in 2022, but any Ohtani card is still a prize for collectors given his unique dual talents and status as one of baseball’s best all-around players. Both Topps and Panini should continue showcasing Ohtani prominently after making him a fixture in their 2022 sets.

Rookies are always a big driver of baseball card interest as well. Seattle Mariners centerfielder Julio Rodriguez had a breakout debut season that culminated in him winning the AL Rookie of the Year award. His first Topps traded and flagship cards from 2022 sold out fast, and collectors will be on high alert for any of his 2023 releases documenting his stellar rookie campaign. Likewise, Atlanta Braves outfielder Michael Harris II finished second in NL Rookie of the Year voting after batting .297 with 19 home runs – making him another exciting young player to follow on cardboard.

Postseason heroes like Philadelphia Phillies slugger Bryce Harper and Houston Astros ace Justin Verlander are also sure to receive prominent card placements. Harper led the Phillies to their first World Series title since 2008, while Verlander added to his legend by winning another ring and World Series MVP honors at age 39. Both have long been stars beloved by collectors, and strong performances when it mattered most in October will only heighten demand.

Of course, superstar veterans like Mike Trout also remain must-have cards regardless of how their teams perform. Though injury limited Trout to just 36 games in 2022, he still owns a .990 career OPS and status as the greatest overall player of his generation when healthy. Trout’s rare game-used memorabilia cards constantly set new records in secondary market sales. The same goes for fellow generation-spanning talents like Mookie Betts of the Dodgers, who just signed a massive contract extension to stay in Los Angeles through the 2027 season.

International stars like San Diego Padres shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr. could bounce back strongly on the cardboard front if able to avoid injuries in 2023. Tatis missed the entirety of this past season recovering from a broken wrist but remains one of the most watchable and exciting young players when on the field. His earliest Topps Chrome and paper rookies hold immense collector value already. Similarly, Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is a budding superstar entering his age 24 season still seeking his first playoff appearance. Any big campaigns would serve to boost both him and his team while expanding his already dedicated fanbase.

Minor league prospects and draft picks primed for their MLB debuts are part of the intrigue too. Top prospects like the Atlanta Braves’ Michael Harris II were 2022 rookies, but names like the Baltimore Orioles’ Adley Rutschman, the Mariners’ Julio Rodriguez, and the Tampa Bay Rays’ Josh Jung all still have their true first Topps cards yet to come. Evaluating future stars starting at the minor league level is part of what drives obsession over baseball cards year after year.

In an age of rising collector interest across all sports, the stars of Major League Baseball will undoubtedly shine on 2023 cardboard releases. Thanks to breakout campaigns, postseason heroics, prospect hype, and beloved veterans, the lineup of coveted players is as deep and exciting as ever. For baseball fans and memorabilia collectors alike, the cards that arrive over the coming calendar year are sure to document another iconic period in the game’s rich history.