Tag Archives: 2023

BOWMAN BASEBALL CARDS 2023 REVIEW

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Bowman is one of the flagship baseball card brands produced annually by Topps. The 2023 edition of Bowman baseball cards offers collectors the chance to get cards of top MLB rookies and prospects from all 30 teams. While Topps Update Series and other sets focus more on current MLB players, Bowman has long been the premier product for following minor league talent and getting cards of players before they reach the majors.

The 2023 Bowman set continues this tradition and gives a first card to many prospects expected to debut in the next year or two. With the rise of prospect mania in baseball over the past decade, Bowman has taken on greater importance as a way for collectors to get cards of players before they become stars. While there is risk in collecting prospects who may never pan out, Bowman allows taking a chance on future Hall of Famers for relatively low prices compared to their established MLB rookies and stars.

For the 2023 release, Topps is once again offering the core Bowman base set along with numerous parallels, inserts, and high-end products. The base Bowman set contains 330 cards with prospects, draft picks, and international signees from all 30 MLB teams. Ranging in number from 1-330, the base cards use a clean white border design with photography on most. The design is simple but effective at highlighting the players. Top rookies like Druw Jones and Termarr Johnson grace the base set along with future stars like Oneil Cruz and Bobby Witt Jr.

In addition to the base set, Topps offers various parallels to chase. This includes the traditional Chrome, Paper, and Mosaic parallels found in most modern Topps releases. New for 2023 is the “Rainbow Foil” parallel available across many Bowman products. Featuring vibrant colors and refractors, these parallel cards of top prospects are sure to be hot on the secondary market. Other parallels like Gold, Orange, and Blue Refractors add to the chase.

For collectors looking to focus on specific teams or players, Bowman offers numerous mini-sets and inserts. This includes Team Sets breaking out base cards and hits by franchise. The popular “First” insert highlights the first Bowman card of many top prospects. Other inserts like “Pro Debut” showcase when players reached the majors. Autograph and memorabilia cards are spread across the various Bowman products as well for those after autographed and game-used relic prospects.

In addition to the core 330-card base set, Bowman’s expanded products satisfy many collector niches. Bowman Draft is for those following the annual MLB Amateur Draft. International products like Bowman Prospects focus on international signees. For higher-end collectors, luxurious releases like Bowman Sterling and Bowman’s Best offer exquisite parallels, autographs, and memorabilia cards of the top prospects. Across all these products, collectors can track every step of a prospect’s development path.

For value, Bowman base cards remain quite affordable compared to established stars. Commons can often be had for under $1, while stars and top rookies check in around $5-10. The parallels and inserts escalate the prices but still pale in comparison to what those same players’ rookie cards command once they debut. Of course, there is risk in the prospect market. Many bust or never reach their potential. But for those willing to gamble, Bowman offers a chance at landing future Hall of Famers like Mike Trout or Ronald Acuña Jr. for a fraction of their post-rookie card values.

In terms of the specific class for 2023, Druw Jones headlines the crop as the #2 overall draft pick. The son of Andruw Jones, scouts rave about Druw’s five-tool potential. Fellow first rounders Jackson Holliday and Termarr Johnson also bring hype and should be hot rookies. Internationally, switch-hitting shortstop Robert Puason from the Dominican Republic stands out. Other notables include high school arms Brock Porter and Owen Murphy, catcher Dillon Paulson, and infielders Yolbert Sanchez and Endy Rodriguez. It remains to be seen which pan out, but Bowman collectors can say they owned their rookie cards long before they made the majors.

For collectors, Bowman 2023 offers the chance to follow the next generation of baseball stars from their earliest prospect days. With a strong crop led by Druw Jones and several other blue-chip prospects, this year’s Bowman class has generated plenty of buzz. The affordable base cards allow taking flyers on prospects, while higher-end products satiate those after the best parallels and autographs. As the preeminent prospect product, Bowman endures as a rite of passage for any collector following the minor leagues. With its focus on tomorrow’s MLB stars, the 2023 edition looks to continue fueling the hobby’s prospect obsession for years to come.

BIG LEAGUE BASEBALL CARDS 2023

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The 2023 baseball season is shaping up to be another exciting year for Major League Baseball. On the field, new stars are emerging while established superstars continue to dominate. Off the field, the baseball card industry is preparing to release another year of spectacular rookie cards and special insert sets chronicling the game’s top players and moments.

For collectors, 2023 promises to be a banner year for finding coveted rookie cards from the game’s latest young talents. Players like Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals, Adley Rutschman of the Baltimore Orioles, and Spencer Torkelson of the Detroit Tigers all made their MLB debuts in 2022 and are poised for stardom. Their respective rookie cards from 2022 releases like Topps, Bowman, and Panini held strong value and remained hot commodities on the secondary market. Now in their first full big league seasons, these rookies could take the next step towards superstardom in 2023 – and their cards may see a significant spike in demand and price if they do.

Some other rookies who made solid MLB debuts late in 2022 like Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez and Atlanta Braves outfielder Michael Harris II will also have their true rookie cards released by the major card manufacturers next year. Rodriguez in particular had a phenomenal rookie campaign and is considered a future star – his official Topps rookie card release in 2023 products will likely be one of the most sought-after cards on the market. Harris also showed five-tool potential and played a key role on the World Series champion Braves, making him another name for collectors to watch.

Of course, established stars will remain at the forefront of the baseball card world as well. Superstar talents like Shohei Ohtani, Mike Trout, Aaron Judge, and Mookie Betts continue putting up MVP-caliber numbers and dominating headlines each season. Judge’s chase of Roger Maris’ American League single-season home run record in 2022 took the sports world by storm. His record-setting 62nd home run ball even sold at auction for over $2 million. Cards from his flagship Topps products like Series 1 and 2 from 2022 are some of the most in-demand on the secondary market.

Trout remains the consensus best player in baseball and has cemented his status as a generational talent and sure-fire first-ballot Hall of Famer. His rare autograph and memorabilia cards continue to rise in value as his career progresses deeper into Cooperstown territory. Ohtani, the two-way phenom who is both an elite pitcher and hitter, has also developed into a true superstar and perennial MVP candidate. He continues to amaze with his unique two-way talents. Cards from these three modern greats, as well as other established stars like Mookie Betts, Juan Soto, Ronald Acuna Jr., and Fernando Tatis Jr., will remain highly sought-after collector’s items.

Manufacturers like Topps, Panini, and Bowman are sure to continue releasing special parallel and short-print cards of the game’s biggest names as well. Topps Chrome, Topps Finest, and Bowman Sterling are examples of sets known to include rare refractors, negatives, and parallels of star players. Insert sets paying tribute to milestones, award winners, and postseason heroes are also a staple of the modern baseball card landscape. These special collector’s cards honoring the top moments in the game add another layer of excitement for those chasing the rarest and most coveted pieces for their collections.

Speaking of the postseason, the 2022 World Series between the Houston Astros and Philadelphia Phillies treated fans to a classic 7-game thriller that saw the Phillies emerge victorious. Topps and other brands are sure to release special World Series-themed cards and memorabilia to commemorate the championship matchup and top individual performances. Bryce Harper led the Phillies to their first title since 2008 and further cemented his star status, while Astros stars like Jose Altuve and Justin Verlander continued adding to their legacies of excellence. Cards paying tribute to these 2022 October heroes will be hot commodities.

The 2023 MLB season promises more great storylines and performances that will make their way onto baseball cards. Rookies like Rodriguez, Harris, and others will look to build on their debut campaigns. Perennial stars like Judge, Ohtani, Trout, and more will continue their pursuit of individual excellence and team success. And special products from Topps, Panini, Bowman and more will keep collectors engaged with inserts, parallels, autographs and more capturing the biggest names and moments. With the never-ending excitement of Major League Baseball fueling the hobby, 2023 looks to be another monumental year for the baseball card industry. Collectors both young and old will eagerly await the arrival of next year’s crop of cardboard to chase their favorite players and relive the thrill of America’s pastime.

TOPPS 2023 SERIES 2 BASEBALL CARDS ROOKIES

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The Topps 2023 Series 2 baseball card set features some of the most promising rookie cards from the 2022 MLB season. Series 2 continues Topps’ tradition of highlighting top prospects and call-ups from the first half of the season who made their MLB debuts after Series 1 was released. This set gives collectors a chance to acquire rookie cards for players who are expected to be stars in the years to come.

Some of the most notable rookie cards in Topps 2023 Series 2 include Oneil Cruz, Spencer Strider, and Alex Faedo. Cruz, a highly-touted shortstop in the Pittsburgh Pirates system, finally got his callup in 2022 and immediately wowed with his impressive power and athleticism. Standing an astonishing 6-foot-7, Cruz brings a unique skillset to the position and could be a cornerstone for the Pirates rebuild. His Series 2 rookie card is already in high demand from collectors looking to get in early on what should be a true superstar.

Another breakout rookie was Spencer Strider of the Atlanta Braves. The flame-throwing righty debuted in May and immediately made an impact with his elite velocity and swing-and-miss stuff. Strider struck out over 200 batters in less than 150 innings as a rookie, establishing himself as a future ace. His dominance out of the Braves bullpen also helped them win the NL East. Strider’s impressive rookie campaign makes his Series 2 RC one of the safest long-term investments in the set.

Detroit Tigers’ righty Alex Faedo also earned a rookie card in Series 2. Once a top college pitcher at the University of Florida, Faedo battled injuries in the minors but showed why he was once a first round pick with a promising MLB debut late in 2022. While he may not have the ace ceiling of Strider, Faedo profiles as a solid mid-rotation starter if he can stay healthy. His card introduces collectors to another potential building block for the rebuilding Tigers.

In addition to those headliners, Series 2 features debut RCs for several other potential impact players like Seiya Suzuki (Cubs), James Triantos (Mariners), and Christian Roa (Rangers). Suzuki brought exciting offense to Wrigley Field in his first MLB season after starring in NPB. The lefty-hitting outfielder finished third in the NL Rookie of the Year voting. Suzuki’s Japanese fanbase alone makes his Topps RC a coveted piece.

James Triantos made a quick rise through the Mariners system, displaying promising power and defense in his first MLB stint. The athletic outfielder has a high ceiling and plays for a surging Seattle club. Christian Roa only made a handful of September appearances but continued building hype around his live arm and projection. The tall righty has the raw tools to be the next quality starter from Texas. Along with established prospects who debuted like Brennen Davis, Kevin Alcantara, and Josh Jung, these three 2023 Series 2 rookies offer excitement about potential future contributors.

While the headliners carry most of the hype, Series 2 always features cards for less-heralded players who end up defying expectations. Past examples include Cody Bellinger, Juan Soto, and Yordan Alvarez – players who exploded onto the scene. Some lotto ticket prospects in this year’s set that could develop into stars down the road include Chase Silseth (Angels), Caleb Kilian (Giants), and Nick Lodolo (Reds). Each showed flashes but still have development ahead. Their rookies can be acquired very affordably now and yield big returns if they blossom.

Another aspect that makes Series 2 exciting is the chance to find gem rookie autograph or memorabilia cards at retail. While the odds are long, hits like a Spencer Strider auto could hold immense long-term value given his budding ace status. Even a simple Cristian Roa patch card holds intrigue as a lottery ticket. The multi-lap auto permutations in Series 2 also allows for rare serial numbered parallels that drive value. This set rewards diligent breakers who hunt for the biggest chase cards at stores.

Beyond just the rookie class, Series 2 continues Topps’ tradition of sharp photography, iconic designs, and throwback templates that breathe new life into the flagship release. Veterans, prospects, managers, and more round out complete team sets. Parallel and insert sets additionally fuel the collecting hobby. Whether acquired as single cards or in retail blasters/hangers at MSRP, Topps Series 2 offers something for every type of collector at an affordable price point. Its blend of established stars, emerging talent, and discovery fun has sustained interest year after year.

In summary, Topps 2023 Series 2 showcases the top MLB debuts and rookies from the first half of 2022. Headlined by the likes of Oneil Cruz, Spencer Strider, and Alex Faedo, this set introduces collectors to promising young players that could become future hall of famers. Sleeper prospects, chase hits, and engaging set designs also reward those who invest now. As a snapshot of baseball’s next generation of stars, Series 2 rookie cards remain a staple for collectors pursuing long-term value and discovery. This year’s release looks to continue that tradition with another excellent rookie class.

TOPPS HERITAGE BASEBALL CARDS 2023

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Topps Heritage is one of the most popular and anticipated mainstream baseball card releases each year from Topps. The 2023 edition is sure to excite collectors both young and old with its retro aesthetic and premium card designs that pay homage to some of the most iconic baseball cards from the 1950s, 60s and 70s.

Topps Heritage was originally launched in 1999 as a premium parallel set to celebrate Topps’ long history in the baseball card industry. The cards were designed to replicate the look and feel of the classic tobacco era designs from the early years of Topps. Since then, the Heritage set has become a staple in the annual Topps baseball card lineup, offering collectors a nostalgic trip back in time with each new release.

For the 2023 season, Topps Heritage baseball cards will once again contain a variety of insert sets, parallels, autographs and memorabilia cards mixed in with the standard base card designs. The backbone of any Heritage set is how they recreate the classic designs of decades past. For 2023, Topps is celebrating the 70th anniversary of their 1953 design by emulating that style.

This means collectors will see simple uniforms, solid color backgrounds and team wordmarks incorporated into a horizontal card format. Some subtle differences from the original 1953 specs have been tweaked for continuity across Heritage sets but the overall retro aesthetic stays true to that early Topps roots. Parallels will include Gold Foil, Sepia, Green Foil and Blue Foil variations to offer added collecting interest.

Beyond the base set, Topps Heritage 2023 insert sets will likely include Topps Heritage High Numbers, returning for another year to expand the player selection beyond the traditional base set checklist. Traditionally, the High Numbers parallel features additional players and runs from card #370 to #400+. All-time greats, prospects and fan favorites are inserted throughout.

Another popular Heritage insert is expected to be All-Time Fan Favorites, highlighting legendary players across all eras in their appropriate uniform designs based on which decades are paid tribute to in any given year. For 2023 being rooted in 1953 designs, we should see Hank Aaron, Willie Mays and more depicted in late 40s/early 50s uniforms once again.

Legendary Materials and Museum Collection are two insert sets that often pay homage to specific iconic Topps designs like the 1964, 1966 and 1971 sets. They take particular cards and players from those years and reimagine them with autographs or memorabilia relic swatches in the style of the original source material. These finely crafted cards are true collector pieces.

On the autograph and memorabilia front, Topps Heritage usually includes several parallels sprinkled throughout hobby boxes as short prints including Bat Cards, Signature Series, Patch Cards and Rarest of the Rare 1/1 patches or autographs featuring the biggest stars of the league. Serialized parallel versions like Printing Plates also make appearances across different tiers.

Beyond the core retail and hobby box products, multi-year Topps Heritage collectors are often treated to high-end options as well. Topps typically releases an elite level Heritage High Number Memorabilia Box or Case that guarantees highly coveted vintage-style relic cards numbered to 5 copies or less featuring superstars of the game. Past years have seen incredible rare Dylan Carlson swatches or Bo Bichette triple relics.

The Exquisite Collection offered as an ultra-luxury parallel to Heritage gives collectors finely crafted cards that recreate specific Hall of Famer or franchise player cards down to the smallest detail with premier swatches, autographs and production specs befitting icons of the game. Cards frequently fetch thousands each at auction.

Of course, the true nostalgia and charm of Topps Heritage also lies in the fact that this is still an “affordable” premium brand within reach of the average collector. While retail blasters and boxes carry an elevated price tag over standard Topps releases, dedicated Heritage collectors are still able gather full base and insert sets each year through trading online and at shows without breaking the bank completely.

For the up and coming 2023 season, Topps Heritage is sure to continue its tradition of excellence, paying tribute to baseball’s rich history with its retro designs while also delivering the autographs, relics and parallels today’s modern collectors have come to expect from high-end sports card products. Whether collecting for fun, investment or a mix of both – Topps Heritage will once again provide the nostalgic baseball card experience collectors young and old look forward to each spring.

With MLB’s rising new stars and familiar greats set to take the field again next year, Topps Heritage 2023 promises to let today’s fans relive the magic of baseball card collecting from generations past with its classic look and premium rosters fit for any collection. After over 20 years of success, this heritage brand shows no signs of slowing as one of the most beloved baseball card releases still going strong each year.

TOPPS 2023 SERIES 2 BASEBALL CARDS INSERTS

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Topps 2023 Series 2 baseball cards are set to release on August 3rd, continuing the company’s flagship baseball card product for the 2023 season. Like every Topps Series release, Series 2 will include a base card set depicting active major league players as well as various insert sets highlighting different themes and special subsets of cards. These insert sets have become a major part of the modern hobby, giving collectors exciting parallels and short prints to hunt for in addition to the base rookies and stars.

One of the most highly anticipated insert sets for Series 2 is the Topps Heritage inserts. As with previous years, this retro-styled set pays homage to Topps designs of the past from the 1950s through 1980s. Relying on the iconic muted color schemes and simplicity of older card designs, the Heritage cards instantly transport collectors back in time. For 2023, Topps is set to include over 150 base Heritage parallels mixed into Series 2 hobby boxes. Numbered parallels will also be present, along with rare short prints. Heritage has become a fan-favorite due to its nostalgia and the thrill of pulling a numbered parallel.

Another significant insert set for 2023 Series 2 is Topps Gallery of Heroes. This set traditionally highlights some of the greatest players in baseball history through dramatic artwork capturing iconic moments from their careers. For the upcoming release, Topps plans to include over 100 base Gallery of Heroes cards depicting legends from across multiple eras. Top autograph and memorabilia versions of these cards will also be very limited, making them highly sought after by collectors. Given the already increased Collector enthusiasm for vintage players, Gallery of Heroes is poised to be one of the most impactful insert sets once again.

Staying true to its mission of documenting the current season, Topps 2023 Series 2 will feature a Topps Now insert set reprinting special moment cards initially released as digital exclusives earlier in the year. These commerate performances, milestones, debuts and other notable achievements not included in the main Series 2 release schedule. Topps Now gives fans a chance to add these timely cards to their collections even after the season progresses. For the upcoming Series 2, Topps Now parallels may also be present in hobby cases adding another popular chase.

Top collectors will have their eyes on the biggest hits and inserts with on-card autographs or game-used memorabilia. Topps plans to include several of these types of premium chase cards spread across different insert sets. The Topps Autographed Parallels set will feature autographs from both current stars and legends of the past on specially designed cards. Additionally, Topps Jersey Numbers pulls jersey swatches or uniform fragments worn by today’s top talents straight from the MLB itself into luxurious card formats. With extremely low print runs sometimes only in the single digits, these high-end autograph and memorabilia cards drive enormous excitement for Series 2 breaks.

Beyond chase inserts, Topps 2023 Series 2 is also set to boast several positional subsets focusing on different aspects of the game. Topps Diamond Kings pays tribute to the best players at each position currently in the league through impressive illustration-style design. Topps High Tek investigates how technology has changed the way the game is analyzed and played with a futuristic motif. Topps Starting Lineup recreates the iconic opening day lineup cards in collectible form to highlight each team. Subsets like these add thematic depth while collecting full sets can be an accomplishing hobby pursuit.

Topps Chrome is undoubtedly one of the biggest hooks bringing enthusiasts back to Series 2 as well. This ultra-modern refractory parallel subset is heavily sought after for both rookies and stars alike due to its flashy allure. Parallels often include numbered refractors, prisms, and other spectral variations adding tremendously to the appeal. Topps Chrome helps modernize the traditional card look and makes for spectacular card pulls that stoke the collector adrenaline rush.

All in all, Topps 2023 Series 2 stacks up to continue rewarding the baseball community with an outstanding assortment of chase hits, throwbacks, players and more for fans of all eras to appreciate. With depth across sets both nostalgic and progressive, the release establishes Topps as the premier documenting force in the hobby for another year. Whether seeking Heritage parallels, Topps Now moments or premium memorabilia, Series 2 is certain to deliver thrills galore for any collector joining the hunt this August. The modern and retro treasures within ensure the great tradition of Topps baseball lives on strongly.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 2023 BOX

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Topps released another exciting edition of baseball cards for the 2023 season. After over 70 years in business, Topps remains the industry leader, holding the exclusive license from Major League Baseball to produce official trading cards. Their 2023 boxed sets and packs offer collectors a treasure trove of the game’s biggest stars, greatest rookies, and finest insert cards.

Topps’ main 2023 baseball card product is their base set, available in wax packs, blasters, fat packs, and hobby boxes. The base set spans 382 total cards and includes every MLB player on opening day rosters. Design-wise, this year’s issue has a clean and colorful rectangular layout highlighting each player’s team logo, number, and name underneath their photo. Along the borders are fun retro embellishments like tally marks and ticket stubs inspired by Topps’ paper ephemera from the 1950s-60s.

Collectors can find stars on every team throughout the base set, from household names like Aaron Judge, Shohei Ohtani, and Mookie Betts to less recognizable role players. Rookies also get called up to the show in their official MLB card debuts. Some of the top rookie cards to pull in 2023 include Seattle’s Julio Rodriguez, Baltimore’s Adley Rutschman, and Chicago Cubs’ Christopher Morel. As an added bonus, Topps lists each player’s 2022 stats on the back of every card to provide season recaps.

In addition to the base set, Topps delivers exciting insert sets packed with parallels, short prints, autographs, and relic cards of today’s elite players. Chrome is one of their most popular inserts featuring photo variations like refractor, negative, and prism parallels on a lustrous metallic foil substrate. Heritage High Numbers revisits classic Topps designs of the past with modern player images. Topps Gallery showcases stunning action shots in a dramatic photo-realistic treatment.

For veteran collectors, Topps Allen & Ginter makes a return focused on cross-sport cameos and historical figures rather than baseball alone. It’s an eclectic mix of athletes alongside scientists, entertainers, and more with unique parallels through die-cuts, embossing, and signatures. Archives delves into Topps’ storied archives to reprint obscure rookie and star cards from the 1960s-1980s in their original designs and conditions.

Rookie cards remain a top draw for collectors looking to add emerging young stars to their collections. Beyond flagship Topps products, other sets exclusively focus on first-year players through introductions like Paper of Record, Sterling, and Triple Threads. These often feature premiere prospects and short prints signifying future Hall of Famers in the making. With less than a full season of stats, it’s all about potential and the mystique of a player’s MLB arrival.

Autographed memorabilia relic cards further raise the stakes, encompassing swatches of game-worn jerseys, bats, caps or even cleats alongside signatures. Triple auto short prints from dual rookies make for the holy grail hits. Full signatures from legends who’ve long since retired offer a direct connection to baseball history. Numbered parallels and rare materials like diamond patches showcase the finest craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Hobby boxes give collectors the ultimate chance at finding these prized hits during each product’s release cycle. For the 2023 Topps Flagship series, one hobby box contains 18 packs with 11 cards each for a total of 198 cards per box. Expect to pull around 15-20 base cards plus numerous inserts showcasing parallel color variations or photographic styles. Autographs and relics inhabit the short print slots at approximately 1 hit per every 3 boxes on average. The randomness of pack pulls keeps the anticipation high.

While resellers list individual boxes online, the true fun lies in the communal experience of a group break. Breakers purchase entire sealed cases to randomly assign each team within to multiple participants watching live on YouTube or Twitch. As packs are torn open and cards revealed, collectors root for their assigned teams and favorites to emerge. Breaks satisfy the rush of the chase alongside the excitement of opening day without having to bust dozens of boxes oneself.

Topps’ unmatched run producing baseball’s definitive cards shows no signs of slowing. Whether joining breaks for the thrill or accumulating sets over years, their offerings unite fans of the pastime from little leaguers to aging enthusiasts. As a record of each new season and the icons who define eras, Topps 2023 products ensure these pivotal moments live on for generations to experience the magic of America’s favorite pastime through cards.

2023 BOWMAN BASEBALL CHASE CARDS

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The 2023 Bowman baseball release marks another exciting year for collectors chasing some of the top prospects in the game through Bowman’s various chase card inserts. While the base Bowman set remains the backbone for finding tomorrow’s stars, it’s these scarce parallel and autograph variations that really drive collector excitement. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the major chase cards collectors will be hunting for in the upcoming 2023 Bowman release.

Perhaps the most coveted insert in 2023 Bowman is the Chrome Refractors. Printed on shiny chrome cardboard, these parallel refractors can be found across the base set, prospects, and paper rookies at an extremely low print run. Past Chrome Refractor pulls have included names like Acuña Jr., Soto, Albies, and Tatis Jr., cementing them as must-have cards for team and player collectors. With the quality of prospects in this year’s class, any Chrome Refractor could take off in value with a strong few seasons in the majors. The rarity of Chrome Refractors makes them highly sought after on the secondary market.

Another exciting parallel insert is the Rainbow Foil paper rookies. These hyper-colorful rookies feature an eye-catching rainbow foil pattern on the front. Like the Chrome Refractors, the Rainbow Foil rookies are some of the scarcest paper cards in Bowman, making them an enticing chase. Collectors love the flashy design and hope to pull the Rainbow Foil of a future all-star. Past examples like the Wander Franco from 2020 have grown substantially in value as his career has taken off. The 2023 class has elite talents like Druw Jones and Jackson Holliday that could make their Rainbow Foil rookies extremely valuable long term.

When it comes to autographs, the biggest chase is always the prizm autographs. Printed on thick prizm cardstock and featuring a colorful full on-card autograph, these autograph parallels separate the best prospects from the pack. Past Bowman prizm auto pulls of Acuña Jr., Soto, Albies, Tatis Jr., and others are now worth thousands of dollars. With the caliber of this year’s draft class headlined by high school phenoms like Druw Jones, Jackson Holliday, and Elijah Green, their prizm autographs will be a true holy grail for collectors. Even second and third tier prospects can pop with a strong few seasons in pro ball, making prizm autos an enticing gamble.

Another highly sought after autograph insert is the Gold Ink autographs. Featuring the prospect’s name emblazoned in shiny gold ink, these parallel autographs really make the signature stand out on the card. Like the prizm autos, the rarity of Gold Ink autographs means they carry significant chase appeal. Collectors hope to pull the Gold Ink of a future all-star and have an iconic looking card in their collection for years to come. Past examples like the Gold Ink Wander Franco from 2020 that now sells for thousands showcases how these inserts can really pay off long term for savvy collectors.

For team collectors, one of the most exciting inserts is always the Franchise Futures autographs. Highlighting each club’s top prospect, these on-card autographs allow fans to root for and collect their favorite organization’s future star. Past Franchise Futures pulls like the Acuña Jr. Braves card from 2017 immediately took off in value as he emerged. This year’s class includes potential Franchise Futures stars like Druw Jones for the Diamondbacks, Termarr Johnson for the Red Sox, and Elijah Green for the Royals. Pulling the Franchise Futures auto of a prospect who pans out is a dream come true for dedicated team collectors.

Of course, for the truly ambitious, one of the biggest chases is always the 1/1 parallel autos and patches. Incredibly rare one-of-one versions of the major autograph inserts, these ultra-premium cards separate the hobby’s biggest whales from the rest. Past examples like the 1/1 Wander Franco Gold Ink auto or Acuña Jr. Patch auto from 2017 are now worth tens of thousands. While the odds of pulling a 1/1 parallel are infinitesimal, it’s what keeps collectors ripping pack after pack of Bowman in hopes of the ultimate hit. Even second and third tier prospects can spike in value with a strong career, making 1/1s a true jackpot for savvy collectors.

While the base Bowman set remains the most fun way to potentially find tomorrow’s MLB stars, it’s these scarce parallel and autograph chase cards that really drive collector excitement for the upcoming 2023 release. With another stellar draft class headlined by names like Druw Jones, Jackson Holliday, and Elijah Green, collectors will be hunting high and low for their prized refractors, rainbow foils, prizm autos, and 1/1 parallels. For those who pull the right prospect at the right time, these inserts can gain incredible value as players emerge in the big leagues. The 2023 Bowman release shapes up to be another exciting year in the never-ending hobby chase.

BEST BASEBALL CARDS 2023 TOPPS

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The 2023 Topps baseball card release is one of the most anticipated issues in recent memory. With rookies like Julio Rodriguez, Bobby Witt Jr., and Adley Rutschman making huge impacts on their MLB teams as rookies in 2022, collectors are eager to get their hands on cards featuring these young stars from their rookie seasons. After a couple down years in terms of design and photo quality, Topps also made some big changes that have collectors excited for the 2023 release. Here are some of the best rookie and star cards collectors will be chasing from the 2023 Topps baseball set.

Julio Rodriguez – The consensus top rookie in baseball in 2022, Rodriguez had a phenomenal season for the Mariners that was capped off by an All-Star selection and Silver Slugger award. His rookie card will undoubtedly be one of the hottest cards in the set. Topps features a clean photo of Rodriguez at the plate in his Mariners uniform. The photo and design highlight Rodriguez’s skills as both a hitter and fielder that made him such an impactful rookie. With Rodriguez poised for superstardom, this card will be at the top of many collectors’ want lists.

Bobby Witt Jr. – Like Rodriguez, Witt burst onto the MLB scene in 2022 and became a cornerstone for the Royals rebuild. Topps delivers with a sharp action photo of Witt mid-swing, showcasing the raw power that led to 29 home runs as a rookie shortstop. The clean white border and simple design let Witt’s skills shine through. This card has all the makings of another highly sought after modern rookie card that could gain significant value as Witt’s career progresses.

Adley Rutschman – After years of hype as the top prospect in baseball, Rutschman finally made his big league debut with the Orioles in 2022 and showed why the expectations have always been so high. Topps uses a close-up headshot to capture Rutschman’s intense focus and competitive fire. The blue and orange colors pop alongside Rutschman in his Orioles uniform. This card is a must-have for collectors following one of the game’s brightest young stars.

Ronald Acuna Jr. – Returning from a torn ACL that cost him much of the 2022 season, Acuna picked up right where he left off as one of the most electrifying players in baseball. Topps honors Acuna with an action photo running the bases, showcasing the elite speed and athleticism that makes him one of the most exciting watch in the game. The foil border adds a nice premium touch to one of the set’s biggest star cards.

Shohei Ohtani – The first player ever to be selected as an All-Star as both a hitter and pitcher, Ohtani has cemented his status as a true two-way force and the game’s most unique talent. Topps features a close headshot of Ohtani in his Angels uniform, letting his intense, focused expression shine through. The clean white border and simple design let Ohtani’s incredible dual talents as a hitter and ace take center stage on this card.

Aaron Judge – After hitting an AL record 62 home runs, Judge turned down a contract extension from the Yankees and will hit free agency this winter. Topps commemorates Judge’s historic 2022 season with a powerful action shot of the towering outfielder in his mighty home run swing. The blue and grey colors pop alongside Judge in his Yankees road greys. This card will be a must-have for any Yankees or Aaron Judge collector.

Spencer Strider – The Braves flamethrowing rookie phenom exploded onto the scene in 2022 with a 2.67 ERA and 202 strikeouts in 131.2 innings pitched. Topps captures Strider mid-delivery, showcasing the deceptive mechanics and electric stuff that made him one of the best rookie pitchers in baseball. The clean white border and simple design let Strider’s skills as a pitcher shine through on this must-have modern rookie card.

Twofer – Topps pays homage to the all-time greats with a dual card featuring a headshot of Hank Aaron on one side and a action shot of Barry Bonds on the other side. The gold foil adds a premium touch to honor two of the game’s home run kings over their incredible careers. This unique dual card will be a standout in any collection paying tribute to baseball history.

Base – While collectors will chase stars and rookies, the base set remains the foundation of any Topps release. Topps went with a clean and classic design featuring full body player shots in home and away uniforms on a white border. Photos and production quality are sharply improved over recent years. Collecting the full base set remains an achievable goal that can be built on and appreciated for years.

Topps continues to deliver the definitive rookie cards and stars of today’s game while also paying homage to the legends of baseball’s past. With sharp photography, clean designs, and modern parallels and short prints, the 2023 release has something for collectors of all levels. Rookies like Rodriguez, Witt, and Rutschman anchor one of the strongest modern rookie classes in years. With continued improvements and a strong lineup of veteran stars and legends, Topps baseball remains the bellwether release for collectors everywhere.

AARON JUDGE 2023 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS PRICES

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Aaron Judge had one of the most historic seasons in baseball history in 2022 when he broke the American League single-season home run record. Naturally, collectors have taken a major interest in Judge’s rookie cards and cards from his record-setting season. While most of Judge’s cards from previous years have seen significant jumps in value, many collectors are most interested in how his rookie cards and 2023 Topps cards will hold up long-term.

Judge’s rookie season was in 2016 with the New York Yankees. That year, Topps released Judge’s rookie cards in both the standard Topps and Topps Chrome sets. While Judge showed promise in his rookie year, hitting 20 home runs in just 114 games, he had yet to break out as the superstar slugger he would become. As a result, Judge’s 2016 Topps rookie cards could be acquired fairly inexpensively in the years after they were released. After Judge’s 2022 AL home run record season, his rookie cards skyrocketed in value.

A PSA 10 graded version of Judge’s standard 2016 Topps rookie card recently sold for $101,000 on eBay in September 2022. Meanwhile, a PSA 10 of his rookie chrome card from the same year reached $180,000 at auction. Even raw, ungraded versions of these cards in near-mint to mint condition regularly sell for $500-1000+ on the secondary market. It’s clear that Judge’s 2022 season has taken his rookie cards to a whole new level in terms of collector demand and monetary value. With his superstar status now cemented, many believe these rookie cards have room for further appreciation as long as Judge maintains his elite play.

Of course, the cards collectors are most interested in from 2022 are Judge’s flagship Topps cards documenting his record-setting season. Judge’s base card can be found in both the standard Topps release as well as Topps Chrome. In the regular Topps set, his base card carries the number 169. Meanwhile, in Topps Chrome his base card number is 99. Both of these cards skyrocketed in demand over the course of the 2022 season as Judge approached and ultimately broke the AL home run record.

In the days and weeks after Judge set the new record with his 62nd home run, raw versions of his 2022 Topps and Topps Chrome base cards were selling for $100-200 each online. As more time has passed and Judge’s accomplishment has sunk in, the prices have continued climbing. Today, PSA 10 graded versions of his 2022 Topps and Topps Chrome base cards regularly sell for $1,000-2,000 each. Even raw, ungraded copies in near-mint to mint condition go for $300-700 depending on the marketplace.

These prices are likely only temporary, as history shows cards from record-setting seasons tend to appreciate significantly with time. For example, cards of Barry Bonds from his 2001 season when he broke the single-season home run record have increased many times over in value since first being released. The same is true of cards from Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa’s epic home run race in 1998. There’s no reason to believe Judge’s 2022 Topps cards won’t follow a similar long-term appreciation trajectory, especially if he maintains elite production and chase records.

In addition to his base cards, Judge has several popular inserts and parallels from 2022 Topps releases that are in high demand. His Topps Fire card has become a particularly hot commodity. In Topps Fire, Judge’s card bears the number 4 and features a photo of him swinging with a fiery background. PSA 10 versions of this card have sold for as much as $2,500. Other popular high-end parallels include his Topps Sapphire, Topps Chrome Sapphire, and Topps Chrome Black Border refractors. All of these parallel and insert cards featuring Judge from 2022 are selling for hundreds of dollars even in raw form due to the limited print runs.

Looking ahead to 2023, Topps will again feature Judge prominently across all of its baseball card products since he is undoubtedly one of the faces of MLB coming off his record-setting season. While prices for Judge’s 2023 Topps cards remain to be seen long-term, early indicators suggest they will be some of the most in-demand modern baseball cards released. His standard base card and Topps Chrome base card are sure to be hot ticket items. Select parallels and short-print variants will also capture collector attention. With continued strong play in 2023 and beyond, Aaron Judge’s 2023 Topps cards have a great shot at joining the ranks of the most valuable modern baseball cards in the hobby.

In summary, Aaron Judge’s breakout 2022 season where he set the AL home run record has taken the prices of his rookie cards and flagship Topps cards from that year to new heights. While expensive already, most experts believe they have further room for appreciation as long as Judge maintains his elite caliber of play. His 2023 Topps cards are poised to be some of the most sought-after modern issues upon release as well. Judge has truly inserted himself into the conversation as one of the premier sluggers and most collectible players in baseball card history over the last couple seasons. It will be fascinating to see how the values of his recent cards, especially those from 2022 and 2023, perform long-term.

2023 BASEBALL CARDS AMAZON

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The 2023 baseball season is right around the corner, which means new baseball cards from the major manufacturers like Topps, Panini, and Leaf will soon be hitting the shelves and online retailers. For collectors looking to add the newest releases to their collections or start a new set, Amazon is one of the top destinations to find all the latest 2023 baseball cards.

Whether you’re a casual collector looking to pick up a few packs or a serious hobbyist trying to complete a set, Amazon offers a wide selection of 2023 baseball cards from the major brands at prices that are generally competitive with other online card shops and local hobby stores. With Amazon’s massive distribution network and quick shipping times, it’s also very convenient for collectors to order cards on Amazon and get them delivered right to your doorstep.

Some key things to know about finding 2023 baseball cards on Amazon:

Release Dates – Most major card releases come out in the late winter/early spring as the new MLB season approaches. Look for flagship products like Topps Series 1, Topps Heritage, Panini Prizm, etc. to start hitting Amazon in February and March 2023.

Brand Selection – Topps remains the MLB’s official licensee, so their flagship products will be the most widely available on Amazon. Panini also has MLBPA licenses and their popular Prizm, Donruss, and Contenders sets can be found. Leaf products with retired players are available too.

Packs, Boxes, and Hobby Cases – Amazon offers 2023 baseball cards in all the standard formats. You can buy loose packs, boxes containing 10-12 packs, and for high-end products, full hobby boxes or case breaks run by third-party sellers.

Pre-Orders and Release Date Delivery – For many of the most anticipated sets, Amazon allows pre-orders so your cards will arrive on or very shortly after the official release date. This ensures you can be among the first to rip packs.

Third-Party Sellers – In addition to cards sold directly by Amazon, third-party sellers offer a huge selection of 2023 baseball cards on the site. Be sure to check seller ratings to avoid scams.

Pricing – In most cases, pack and box prices on Amazon will be close to or identical to MSRP. Individual rare or autographed cards from resellers may be above or below recent eBay sales depending on demand.

Condition Guarantees – Cards purchased directly from Amazon qualify for their standard return policy if any are damaged or defective. Third-party items may have different return windows.

Some of the biggest and most sought-after 2023 baseball card releases that should be readily available on Amazon include:

Topps Series 1 – The flagship set is always the first major release of the year, coming out in late February/early March. Hobby boxes usually run $100-120 on Amazon.

Topps Heritage – The retro-styled Heritage set arrives in March and is hugely popular. Hobby boxes usually around $150.

Panini Prizm – The “Chrome” alternative to Topps hits in February/March. Hobby boxes $150-200 due to the brand’s popularity.

Topps Opening Day – A value-priced retail exclusive set that’s out by early March. Blaster boxes around $20.

Topps Series 2 – The second Topps installment is out in late May/early June and features players’ updated photos. Hobby boxes $100.

Topps Chrome – The flagship “refractor” set bows in late July after the All-Star break. Hobby boxes $200-250.

Topps Update Series – Released in late August/September, it has rookie debuts and award winners. Hobby boxes $100-120.

Panini Contenders – An “insert” set focusing on stars that usually drops in October. Hobby boxes $150-200.

Topps Transcendent – The ultra-high-end release with 1-of-1 cards comes out in November. Hobby boxes well over $1000.

For collectors on a budget, Amazon also has 2023 value packs and blasters from Topps, Donruss, Leaf, and other brands starting at MSRP prices around $10-25. And keep an eye out in late winter for “mega boxes” containing 100+ cards that are good for set building.

In terms of sorting and filtering 2023 baseball cards on Amazon, here are some tips:

Use the “2023” search filter to isolate just cards from the current season.

Brand filters for “Topps,” “Panini,” etc. to browse specific manufacturers.

“Hobby box” will show full sealed boxes while “packs” shows loose packs.

“Autograph” and “Memorabilia” filters find high-end signed/relic cards.

Sellers like Blowout Cards, Steel City Collectibles, and DA Card World sell new release cards.

Read reviews to avoid resealed boxes or packs with unusual pull rates.

So whether you’re looking for value packs to rip or a full hobby case break of Topps Transcendent, Amazon is a great one-stop shop for all your 2023 baseball card needs. With products available from many trusted sellers, it’s a top online marketplace for adding to your collection all year long.