Tag Archives: 2023

BEST BASEBALL CARDS TOPPS 2023

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The 2023 Topps baseball card set was another highly anticipated release from the legendary card manufacturer. With a wide variety of parallels, short prints, and rookie cards to chase, the 2023 Topps set offered collectors plenty of exciting cards to add to their collections. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout rookie and veteran cards from the 2023 Topps baseball set.

One of the most sought-after rookie cards in the 2023 Topps set was Houston Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown. As a promising rookie who made his MLB debut in 2022, Brown’s base rookie card carried significant value right out of packs. Additionally, Topps inserted short print and parallel versions of Brown’s rookie that became extremely difficult to pull. For Astros fans and collectors chasing the next big rookie star, Brown’s cards were at the top of many want lists.

Another rookie who generated a lot of buzz was Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez. After winning the AL Rookie of the Year award in 2022, Rodriguez’s base rookie card from Topps sold for over $100. Parallels and short prints of J-Rod’s rookie skyrocketed in value. The refractors and negatives especially became major chase cards. Rodriguez is poised for stardom, making his rookie cards from 2023 an excellent long-term investment for collectors.

On the veteran side, Los Angeles Dodgers star Mookie Betts had one of the most coveted base cards in the 2023 Topps set. As one of the game’s premier players, Betts’ marketability and on-field production make him a blue-chip card. The refractors and negative refractors of Betts’ base card were extremely scarce pulls that reached high prices. For Dodger fans and investors, a Betts parallel from 2023 carried substantial cachet.

Another in-demand veteran was New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge. After smashing an AL record 62 home runs in 2022 and winning the AL MVP, Judge was the biggest name in baseball. Naturally, collectors scrambled to obtain Judge’s base card from Topps. With his star power and on-base of continued dominance, Judge’s 2023 Topps cards proved to be solid long-term keepsakes, especially for Yankee collectors.

Rookies Oneil Cruz of the Pittsburgh Pirates and Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals also enjoyed breakout campaigns in 2022 that translated to strong rookie card sales. Cruz’s immense power and Witt’s all-around skills as the #2 overall pick had collectors excited to chase their base rookies. Short prints and refractors of Cruz and Witt became steep risers on the secondary market. Both players look primed for stardom, underscoring their 2023 Topps cards as blue-chip prospects.

Veteran superstars Mike Trout of the Los Angeles Angels and Shohei Ohtani of the Angels also had must-have base cards. As two of the game’s most electrifying talents, Trout and Ohtani’s on-card presence increased demand for their 2023 Topps issues. Refractors and negative refractors of Trout and Ohtani sold at top dollar. For Angels collectors and investors, their cards held top-of-the-line cachet as cornerstone pieces.

The 2023 Topps baseball card set had no shortage of elite rookies and veterans to chase. Between standout rookies like Brown, Rodriguez, Cruz and Witt and superstars like Betts, Judge, Trout and Ohtani, the 2023 Topps issues delivered many of the most coveted modern cards. For years to come, the top rookies and parallels from 2023 are sure to retain and gain value in the secondary market. The release captured another year of the game’s brightest young talents and established names, cementing 2023 Topps as a true collector’s set.

TOPPS 2023 BASEBALL CARDS TARGET

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The 2023 Topps Baseball card set is one of the most anticipated releases each year for both collectors and fans. As spring training approaches and the regular season gets underway, fans flock to retail stores like Target hoping to find the iconic wax packs, blasters, or hobby boxes featuring their favorite players on cardboard. While there are always challenges in keeping shelves stocked amidst high demand, Target has taken important steps in 2023 to better meet collector needs for the Topps flagship baseball card release.

Prior years saw bare shelves almost instantly after stocking as word spread quickly across social media when a Target received Topps products. In response, Target worked closely with Topps to increase initial distribution volumes for the 2023 set at open Series 1 in late January/early February. Larger shipments were sent to stores across the country right from the initial release period versus waiting for reorders. This helped ensure more consistent availability during the first hot weeks after release when excitement and searches are at their peak.

Target also utilized endcap and secondary displays more prominently throughout the sports and collectibles areas to showcase and maximize visibility of the Topps baseball items. Gone are the days of just a few packs crammed into the baseball card side of an aisle. Entire sections were devoted to 2023 Topps at launch to entice foot traffic and impulse purchases. Dynamic pricing was also implemented which allowed Target to adjust MSRP on certain products up or down based on real-time sell-through data. This kept pricing in line with secondary market values.

Despite the larger shipments for Series 1, demand still far outpaced initial supply for the marquee Topps Baseball release. However, Target leveraged its vast distribution network to restock shelves much more quickly compared to prior years. Reorders were fulfilled and back on pegs within 1-2 weeks in most areas rather than having to wait 4+ weeks. Knowledgeable collectors noticed the replenishments and many stores maintained stock for longer windows before completely selling out the first series.

The timing of subsequent Topps Baseball series also aligned well with product already on retail shelves. Series 2 arrived about 6 weeks after Series 1 first shipped. This allowed the initial frenzy to die down some before the next wave of cards hit Target. By spacing out the series releases, it prevented a constant cycle of bare shelves within days of receiving new stock. Sustained availability carried momentum for the Topps brand versus brief intermittent windows that frustrated shoppers.

Topps worked proactively with Target to meet heightened demand in 2023 from both novice collectors just discovering the hobby as well as veterans dialed into the timing of new releases. Larger initial volumes, quicker restocks, and strategic series rollout schedules all combined to yield the best sustained Topps Baseball presence on Target pegs that collectors have seen in years. While high interest will always outpace supply to some degree, fans now have a fighting chance at finding packs, blasters, and boxes for the annual Topps Flagship set all season long rather than a fleeting opportunity. The coordination between Topps and major retailers like Target is leading to encouraging progress in satisfying the growing collector audience across the country. With any luck, 2024 could see even further optimized distribution to make the iconic Topps Baseball experience accessible for more new and old fans alike.

2023 TOPPS ARCHIVES BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 Topps Archives baseball card set is one of the most anticipated card releases each year from Topps. As the name implies, Topps Archives pays homage to classic designs from years past. For 2023, Topps is digging back to the 1970s for inspiration with designs from 1972 and 1979.

1972 was a pivotal year for Topps designs. It marked the debut of the iconic design featuring a player photo centered on the card with their name and team name arched along the top. This clean, simple design became the standard look for Topps baseball cards through much of the 1970s and 1980s. The 2023 Topps Archives set will feature cards that precisely replicate the look and feel of the original 1972 issues, including the green border that surrounded most of the player photos that year. Fans of vintage designs are sure to love seeing modern players depicted on the classic 1972 template.

In addition to the 1972 design, Topps Archives 2023 will also include cards patterned after the 1979 design. While still retaining Topps’ traditional look, the 1979 set featured some subtle changes like a thinner border around the player photo and team name now listed straight across the bottom as opposed to arched at the top. 1979 also saw Topps begin color-coding teams by division on the borders. The National League East had green borders while the NL West was yellow, for example. Topps Archives will faithfully re-create these 1979 nuances for an authentic vintage experience.

Like all Topps Archives sets, the 2023 edition will include parallel and short-printed “hit” cards to add to the excitement of the chase. Topps Archives Silver Pack Parallels will feature a silver border around the player photo. The Gold Parallels upgrade to a gold border. Topps also has a tradition of including 1/1 printing plate autograph cards in Archives sets. These ultra-rare cards consist of the printing plate used to create the base card, signed by the player featured. Other hit possibilities include autographed jersey and memorabilia cards of today’s top players.

When it comes to the checklist, Topps Archives aims to include the biggest names in the game for its vintage designs. For 2023, expect to see cards of superstars like Shohei Ohtani, Aaron Judge, Mookie Betts, and Juan Soto among many others. Rookies will also be represented, giving collectors a chance at vintage-style cards of players just starting their MLB careers. Topps Archives typically includes around 300 base cards plus hits and parallels, so set builders will have their work cut out to complete this premium release.

Secondary market demand for Topps Archives is consistently strong given the limited print runs and nostalgia factor of the vintage designs. Completed sets and especially hit cards often carry substantial premiums over their initial pack odds. For example, a 1/1 printing plate from 2022 currently lists for over $2,000 on auction sites. Even base rookies can sell for $50-100 or more a piece for stars like Wander Franco. With its 1972 and 1979 templates, the 2023 Topps Archives release looks poised to continue capturing the imagination of collectors both old and new. Between the authentic retro designs, star-studded checklist and coveted hit cards, it’s easy to see why Topps Archives remains one of the most anticipated card sets each year.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 2023 SERIES 2

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Topps Baseball Cards 2023 Series 2 Release

The second series of Topps’ 2023 flagship baseball card set is scheduled for release in late June/early July 2023, continuing Topps’ tradition of releasing high-quality cardboard collectibles celebrating America’s pastime. Series 2 will feature cards showcasing the biggest stars and top rookies from the 2023 MLB season so far as well as nostalgic retrospective cards honoring iconic players and moments from baseball history.

Like previous years, Series 2 will come in traditional wax packs as well as in special high-end hobby boxes targeted at seasoned collectors. The standard packs will contain 11 total cards including 1 guaranteed rookie or prospect parallel card per pack. The set count is expected to be in the 490-500 range like recent years to ensure coverage of all 30 MLB teams while still providing scarcity. Parallels, short prints, autographed memorabilia cards, and more are sure to be present as Topps once again tries to satisfy the wants of new and experienced collectors alike.

Series 2 is particularly anticipated this year due to the excitement around the new crop of rookies that have broken into the big leagues in 2023. Names like Dodgers shortstop Jordan Walker, Guardians outfielder George Valera, and Astros righty Hunter Brown are sure to receive extra attention from collectors seeking those prized first Topps cards of tomorrow’s stars. Established young talents like Bobby Witt Jr., Julio Rodriguez, and Michael Harris II who made their Topps debuts in Series 1 will see additional showcase cards as well with their ascendant play early in the season.

Veteran sluggers Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Aaron Judge, and Shohei Ohtani are locks to receive some of Series 2’s premier chase cards reflecting their early MVP-caliber campaigns. Fresh off setting the AL home run record in 2022, a Judge autograph parallel would sell for big bucks. Ohtani’s unique two-way talents ensure he remains one of the faces of the game. And Vladdy has developed into the best hitter in baseball in his age-23 season with the Blue Jays. Other top talent like Mookie Betts, Trea Turner, and Juan Soto should get flashy cards refining their star status too.

Series 2 will also feature tribute cards honoring MLB legends and notable anniversaries from seasons past. 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the ’73 “You Gotta Believe” Mets, so Tom Seaver, Jon Matlack, and other members of that surprising pennant winner are deserving of retrospective inserts. The 75th anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier in 1947 may inspire poignant parallels of #42. And icons of the sport like Babe Ruth, Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, and more are always worth celebrating in Topps sets old and new with classy reprisals of their iconic photos and stats.

For collectors, picking up a box of 2023 Topps Series 2 offers the thrill of the hunt for the next big rookie stars, parallels of established talents, and nostalgic nods to baseball history. The combinations of high-quality cardboard, rich visuals and fun nostalgia have kept Topps the predominant brand in the hobby for decades. While resellers may list individual flagship cards online, there’s nothing like finding that hit in your own pack fresh from the store. The mid-summer release of Series 2 promises more opportunities for today’s fans to build their collections of cards capturing the past, present, and future of America’s favorite pastime.

HOT BASEBALL CARDS FOR 2023

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With the rise of the sports card industry over the past couple years, the hype around rookie cards and top prospects has grown exponentially. As we head into the 2023 season, there are several young stars who are primed for breakout campaigns that could skyrocket the value of their rookie cards. Let’s take a look at some of the hottest baseball cards to watch in the new year.

Bobby Witt Jr., Kansas City Royals (2021 Topps Chrome Refractor RC PSA 10): The second overall pick in the 2019 draft had a solid debut in 2022, slashing .254/.308/.434 with 20 home runs in his first full MLB season. Still just 22 years old, most scouts believe Witt Jr. has yet to reach his full potential and he should continue improving in his sophomore year. His rookie cards exploded in value last season and anything graded a gem mint PSA 10 could be a smart long-term hold, as he moves closer to superstar status with the Royals. Look for his cards to remain very popular and in high demand in 2023.

Spencer Torkelson, Detroit Tigers (2021 Topps Chrome Blue Refractor RC PSA 10): Similar to Witt Jr., Torkelson struggled at times in his first MLB cup of coffee last year but showed signs of why he was the top overall pick in 2020. With another year of development and experience under his belt, big things are expected of the 23-year-old corner infielder this season. If he breaks out as projected, his immaculately graded rookie refractors will soar to new heights. He has legitimate 40-home run, 100-RBI upside that could make him the new face of the Tigers.

Julio Rodriguez, Seattle Mariners (2022 Topps Chrome Rainbow Foil SHIMMERTM RC PSA 10): J-Rod exploded onto the MLB scene in the second half of 2022, slashing .284/.345/.514 with 28 extra-base hits and 16 stolen bases in just 80 games. He finished second in AL Rookie of the Year voting at age 21 and seems destined for stardom. Rodriguez’ shiny rookie cards were already red hot, but if he consolidates his breakout campaign with an All-Star caliber 2023, his Topps Chrome shimmers and other high-ends could rival anything in the modern era for record prices. He has legitimate 5-tool superstar potential.

CJ Abrams, San Diego Padres (2021 Topps Chrome Sapphire RC PSA 10): Acquired from the Padres in the blockbuster Juan Soto/Josh Bell trade, Abrams will get everyday at-bats in 2023 to realize his potential. Just 21, he showed tantalizing wheels and defense in a brief MLB debut last year. With a full season to adjust, he could break out as a 20-20 (HR/SB) type at multiple positions. Sapphire and other premium refractors of the former 6th overall pick remain somewhat under the radar but that will change if he puts it all together next season.

Adley Rutschman, Baltimore Orioles (2022 Topps Chrome Sapphire Prizm RC PSA 10): Living up to the immense hype so far, Rutschman looks like a future all-star catcher and face of the franchise. He projects to be a perennial All-Star and if he finishes near the top of AL Rookie of the Year voting, his already sky-high rookie cards will likely shatter records. At just 25 years old, he’s just scratching the surface of his potential and is building into a complete offensive force. With Soto also now in Baltimore, Rutschman should have great protection that could help him put up monster season stats.

Oneil Cruz, Pittsburgh Pirates (2021 Topps Chrome Sapphire Prizm RC PSA 10): With his unbelievable tools, Cruz has drawn comparisons to young Miguel Cabrera and Mike Piazza. At an incredible 6’7″, the 23-year-old switch-hitter has 40+ home run potential and his speed and athleticism for his size are unmatched. He showed exciting flashes in his rookie stint last season and will get regular playing time in 2023 to really begin unlocking his potential. If he breaks out big, his premium rookie cards could rival the Great One Wayne Gretzky’s as some of the most valuable in modern collectibles.

Brennan Davis, Chicago Cubs (2021 Topps Chrome Blue Refractor RC PSA 10): Selected 8th overall in 2018, the 23-year-old outfielder is on the cusp of a full MLB opportunity in 2023. He made his debut last season and showed nice power/speed potential while continuing to refine his approach. If Davis becomes an everyday fixture in Wrigley as expected, the hype around him has scarcely begun. With legitimate 30/20 skills forecast, his Topps Chrome blue refractor could takeoff if he performs to his lofty prospect status.

Max Meyer, Miami Marlins (2022 Topps Chrome Rainbow Foil RC PSA 10): He did not pitch in the majors following a rookie year injury but Meyer retains massive long-term upside as the third overall pick from 2020. With a solid fastball and wipeout slider, the 23-year-old righty could pitch himself into top prospect rankings again in 2023 if he stays healthy. Meyer has future ace stuff and his premium rookie cards could appreciate greatly if he dominates in his eventual MLB debut next season.

Jose Miranda, Minnesota Twins (2022 Topps Chrome Pink Refractor RC PSA 10): After a strong showing in his initial 2022 stint that led to an AL Rookie of the Year nomination, Miranda should be poised for a breakout sophomore campaign. The 24-year-old corner infielder is a consistent offensive threat who could establish himself as a franchise cornerstone. With 30-homer pop and an advanced approach, Miranda has all-star potential and his pristine rookie cards should also rise substantially if he takes his game to yet another level this year.

Keep a close eye on the young stars above and their premium rookie refractors in 2023. With breakout seasons projected across the board from these emerging talents, their flagship rookie cards graded gem mint could deliver enormous returns for savvy baseball card investors lucky enough to get in at the ground floor. This dynamic new core of superstars is poised to thrill on the MLB fields for years to come.

BASEBALL CARDS 2023 RELEASE DATE

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Baseball Card Release Dates in 2023

Each new year brings with it anticipation for the upcoming baseball season and the release of new baseball card sets highlighting the previous year’s action. 2023 will be no different, as several major card companies have already announced their plans to release new high-profile sets celebrating the 2022 MLB season. While specific release dates may change as the year progresses, here’s a general overview of some of the biggest and most anticipated baseball card releases expected in 2023.

Topps – As the longest-running and most iconic brand in the hobby, Topps annually kicks off the new year of baseball cards. In 2023, they are expected to release their flagship Topps Series 1 set in late January or early February. This set will feature rookie cards and base cards highlighting the 2022 MLB season. Topps Update is then projected for release in late summer/early fall, adding any new rookies or players that emerged after Series 1 was finalized. Topps Chrome, featuring refractors and parallels, will likely release in spring. Topps Heritage, celebrating vintage design aesthetics from the 1950s-80s, is planned for an April/May release window.

Panini – As one of the leading competitors to Topps in recent years, Panini has established themselves as a must-have brand. Their 2023 Prizm set, featuring refractors and “hit” parallels, is anticipated for release in February or March. Panini’s 2023 Donruss set will offer base cards and rookies from 2022 and is projected for April/May. Panini also annually produces exclusive NBA-licensed sets that incorporate baseball players, such as Donruss Optic (March/April) and Prizm Draft Picks (May/June).

Bowman – The Bowman brand is synonymous with prospecting and rookie cards. In 2023, look for Bowman Draft in April showcasing the top prospects from the 2022 MLB Draft. Bowman’s Platinum set is planned for a June release, while Bowman Chrome and Bowman 1st Edition are projected for July-September windows to feature the best prospects and recent draftees. Bowman Sterling, an ultra-high end release, is tentatively scheduled for fall 2023.

Other Notable Releases – Additional major releases on the 2023 calendar include Allen & Ginter (June/July) from Topps, featuring unique mini cards and inserts. Stadium Club from Topps is planned for a May release. Leaf is projecting Metal Universe for April and Valiant for June. The premium brands also have 2023 releases planned – Leaf Trinity and Flawless in spring/summer, while Spectra and Impeccable are aiming for fall/winter releases.

Retail & Hobby Availability – Most mainstream releases will be readily available through major retailers like Target, Walmart, and hobby shops. More premium/limited sets usually require pre-orders through online card shops. As the COVID card boom continues to impact availability and demand, it will be important for collectors to be proactive in securing pre-orders or checking for restocks around anticipated release dates. Secondary market prices also remain elevated across most modern releases.

2023 shapes up to be another monumental year for baseball cards, with the usual suspects releasing new flagship sets and exclusive parallels/refractors to celebrate the past MLB season and showcase top prospects. With the continued growth of the hobby, competition between brands is fierce – so collectors can expect innovative new insert sets and memorabilia cards alongside traditional base cards. Staying up-to-date on official announcements and release calendars will help fans of the card collecting hobby best prepare and plan for the exciting wave of new releases coming in 2023.

BOWMAN 2023 BASEBALL CARDS CHECKLIST

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The Bowman 2023 baseball card set is one of the most highly anticipated releases of the new year. As the flagship baseball card product of Topps, Bowman is known for providing the first MLB cards each year for many of the top prospects in the minors. The Bowman 2023 checklist features over 350 cards and offers baseball card collectors their first glimpse at the next generation of future MLB stars.

Some of the biggest names that are expected to be featured in the Bowman 2023 set include Druw Jones, Termarr Johnson, Elijah Green, and Jackson Holliday. All four players were taken within the top 10 picks of the 2022 MLB Draft and are considered four of the best prospects in the minors. Having rookie cards of these elite talents will make the Bowman 2023 set one of the most valuable releases in recent memory.

In addition to rookie cards of the top draft picks, Bowman 2023 will also include the debut MLB cards for many international signees and other highly touted prospects that have risen up prospect rankings over the past year. Some specific international prospects to watch for include Roderick Arias, Osiel Rodriguez, and Carlos Colmenarez. On the domestic side, players like Brock Porter, Chase Petty, and Drew Thorpe could have their first MLB cards after breakout seasons in 2022.

A core set will make up the bulk of the Bowman 2023 checklist, featuring base rookie cards and parallel variations of the top prospects. However, Topps has also announced several special inserts and parallels that add to the excitement. One of the highly coveted inserts is expected to be the “Paper Stock” parallel, featuring prospect cards printed on thick, premium card stock. These parallels command a significant premium in the secondary market.

Another anticipated insert is the “Gold Label” parallel, which features prospects dressed in their team uniforms on a gold foil-stamped design. The Gold Label parallels tend to carry some of the highest valuations in Bowman releases. Topps is also expected to include “Chrome” and “Rainbow Foil” parallels of top prospects, along with autographed and memorabilia cards of the elite talents. The memorabilia cards in particular hold great value since they provide fans an authentic piece of a prospect’s career before reaching the majors.

In addition to the prospect cards, Bowman 2023 will feature base cards and inserts focusing on current MLB stars. Rookie cards and prospects get most of the attention in Bowman, but the set also provides opportunities to collect cards of established major leaguers from the previous season. Topps usually includes parallels and inserts highlighting MVP winners, Cy Young and Rookie of the Year candidates from the prior MLB campaign. Veterans like Shohei Ohtani, Aaron Judge, and Julio Rodriguez are sure to have prominent cards after their outstanding 2022 seasons.

The release of Bowman has become a highly anticipated springtime event for the baseball card community. While the flagship Series 1 and Series 2 sets focus on the current MLB season, Bowman provides the first chance to collect cards featuring the next wave of future stars. With elite prospects like Druw Jones, Termarr Johnson and Elijah Green headlining the checklist, Bowman 2023 has all the makings of one fans and investors will be talking about collecting for years to come. Whether chasing parallels, autographed cards or just following favorite prospects, the Bowman 2023 set is sure to excite collectors and capture the imagination of those following the next generation of MLB talent.

2023 SERIES 2 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 Topps Series 2 baseball card set is one of the most anticipated mid-season releases each year. After the initial Series 1 cards are distributed in March/April, collectors and investors eagerly await what new rookies, stars, and parallels will be featured in Series 2 starting in July. Some of the top things to know about the upcoming 2023 Topps Series 2 release:

Size of the Set: Like recent years, the 2023 Topps Series 2 baseball card set is expected to have approximately 400 total cards. This includes base cards for all current MLB players as well as prospects, managers, coaches, and retired greats. Parallels and insert cards will make up the remaining portion of the approximate 400 card checklist.

Key Rookies: One of the biggest draws of Series 2 each year is the inclusion of top rookies who made their MLB debuts after the Series 1 release. Some rookies to watch for in 2023 Topps Series 2 include catcher Adley Rutschman (Orioles), outfielder Julio Rodriguez (Mariners), infielder Bobby Witt Jr. (Royals), and pitcher Grayson Rodriguez (Orioles). Their base rookie cards as well as prized autographs and parallels will be in high demand.

Stars on the Move: Players who were traded or signed as free agents after the Series 1 release will have their first cards wearing their new uniforms in Series 2. Notable players switching teams in 2022 that could appear in new uniforms include Dansby Swanson (Dodgers), Xander Bogaerts (Padres), Brandon Nimmo (Phillies), and Carlos Rodon (Padres).

Parallels and Short Prints: In addition to the base paper cards, Topps Series 2 will include various parallels and short prints to add to the excitement of the release. Expect popular parallels like Gold, Silver, Rainbow Foil, and Refractors. Short prints like the coveted Topps Chrome cards are also anticipated. These parallel and short print cards hold greater value due to their lower print runs.

Insert Themes: Topps has used various creative insert themes in recent Series 2 releases to add to the fun and provide chase cards. Popular past inserts like “Stars of the Topps Project” and “Topps Now Moments” are likely to return. New insert sets focused on milestones, All-Star performances, and individual player accomplishments will also be showcased.

Release Date: Unless there are any delays, the official release date for 2023 Topps Series 2 baseball cards is currently scheduled for July 13, 2022. Boxes, blasters, and hobby packs will be available at most major hobby shops and online retailers on that date. Retail “hanger” and “fat” packs may take a bit longer to arrive at big box stores and drugstores.

Resale Market: With the increased popularity of the modern baseball card market, Series 2 cards hold great value for resale right out of the gate. Top rookies, stars, and short prints typically sell out quickly on the secondary market at release. Within a few years, some of the top cards from the 2023 Series 2 set could appreciate significantly in price assuming those players live up to expectations. The resale market gives collectors and investors opportunities to profit from the release.

The 2023 Topps Series 2 baseball card set is primed to continue captivating collectors with its mix of established stars, top prospects, fun parallels, and creative inserts. As a mid-season release each summer, it helps tide fans and the hobby over until the next year’s Series 1 arrives. Strong sales and interest in the 2022 Topps Series 2 release bode well for another successful offering from Topps when the 2023 version is unveiled in July. Experienced and novice collectors alike will enjoy adding to their collections through packs of the upcoming Series 2 cards.

RELEASE DATE FOR 2023 BASEBALL CARDS

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2023 Baseball Card Release Dates – What to Expect Through the Year

As baseball fans eagerly await the start of the 2023 MLB season, they also have their eyes peeled for when the new baseball card releases will hit store shelves. Each year, the major trading card companies like Topps, Panini, and Fanatics roll out new baseball card products starting in the late winter and continuing throughout the spring and summer. 2023 looks to have an exciting slate of baseball card releases, continuing the boom the hobby has seen in recent years. Here’s an in-depth look at what release dates collectors can expect for the major 2023 baseball card products.

January/February – Early Releases and Hobby Boxes

As has become commonplace the past few years, some of the first 2023 baseball cards will start arriving in January and February before the regular season even begins. Topps, Fanatics, and Panini all do small “early release” style packs, boxes and blasters to whet collectors’ appetites and get cards in hands of fans as soon as possible. Topps usually starts things off with various “Series 1” style unnumbered parallels and short prints in these early products. Fanatics 2023 Opening Day is also expected to hit shelves in January or February with base cards and rookie cards of top draft picks.

Panini usually goes big each winter with their “Diamond Kings” and “Donruss” hobby boxes released in January/February. These higher-end box breaks focus on parallels, autographed cards and memorabilia pieces of stars. Panini’s “Flawless” ultra-high end product will also likely have a 2023 baseball version hit in late January or early February before Spring Training begins. These early releases are great for collectors itching for new cardboard but represent a fraction of what’s still to come throughout the year.

March/April – Topps Series 1 Release

The official kickoff of the 2023 baseball card season will be Topps Series 1 release, expected in late March or early April shortly before Opening Day. As the flagship base set of Topps, Series 1 release is always highly anticipated, and 2023 figures to be no different. The first chance to see rookie cards of top prospects like Druw Jones, Termarr Johnson and Jackson Holliday will be in Series 1 packs. Bonus hits like autographs, memorabilia and parallels will also start showing up in Series 1 blasters, hangers, boxes and jumbo packs. The print runs will still be smaller than Topps Update and Chrome releases later in the year.

Topps typically also does a “Series 1 Paper” release around the same late March/early April timeframe focusing on the base cards printed on traditional white cardboard stock. Series 1 is usually followed in late April/early May by Topps Series 2 continuing the base card sets from the flagship brand. Insert sets kicking off in Series 1 will then continue progressing through subsequent Topps releases as well. Retail products of Series 1, 2 and additional insert-focused sets like “Allen & Ginter” keep coming through the spring and summer months ahead.

April/May – Fanatics Releases and Panini Prizm

While Topps owns the exclusive MLBPA license for “Topps” branded sets, competitors Fanatics and Panini still manage to crank out noteworthy baseball card releases in the early season period as well. Fanatics’ 2023 “Bowman” release focusing on top prospects is expected in April/May continuing the popular set’s long tradition. Panini also looks to have their hot “Prizm” brand out around the same time frame.

Prizm football has become a phenomenon in recent years, and Panini baseball Prizm products including blasters, boxes and especially packs carry a solid buzz with collectors and investors thanks to the aesthetic parallels and hits inside. The first chances to pull rookies like Holliday or internationals Victor Victor Mesa in the “chromatic” Prizm parallels and refractors is a highlight of the spring card season. Panini also usually has “Donruss” and “Contenders” sets released around April/May with those brands.

June/July – MLB Draft Cards and Topps Update

As the MLB Draft occurs in mid-July each year, that means boxes and packs focusing exclusively on the drafted players start hitting shelves in June. Panini usually leads the way with their MLB Draft products early, featuring fully licensed rookie cards of the top selections. Topps and Fanatics Draft sets typically arrive later in June into early July as well.

The other hugely anticipated summer baseball card release each year is Topps Update. Hitting stores in late June or early July, Topps Update provides updated base and rookie cards for any players who made their big league debuts after Series 1 was finalized. Hall of Fame inductees also see their modern rookie cards inserted in Update sets as well. Hobby boxes of Update provide the best chance all year for pulling coveted autographs and memorabilia rookie cards of top young talents.

August/September – End of Season Releases

Once the summer heats up and MLB enters its dog days, new cardboard keeps arriving on shelves for collectors right up through the end of the season in early October. Panini usually has later “Playoff” and “National Treasures” style high-end products out in August focused on stars. Topps “Chrome” hits in September and October as the flashiest flagship release of all, and has become a favorite for refractors and color parallels.

Fanatics also partakes in end of season releases under their Bowman brand and Signature Series labels with exclusive rookie autographs of players who made their MLB debuts. Panini does fall “Contenders” and “Donruss” sets as well for fans before the postseason begins. These final regular season products wrap a ribbon on all the new rookie classes and call out stars from the campaign.

As the 2023 MLB season fast approaches, baseball card collectors are eagerly anticipating all these new product releases throughout the year from companies like Topps, Panini and Fanatics. Between early February boxes to late September sets, there will be no shortage of fresh cardboard pouring onto the market throughout next season. The 2023 rookie classes shaping up to be standouts will only increase excitement for each new drop.

BOWMAN 2023 BASEBALL CARDS REVIEW

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The 2023 edition of Topps’ Bowman baseball card set is one of the most highly anticipated releases each year. As the flagship rookie card issuer, Bowman provides fans the first card for many of the game’s future stars each season. The 2023 set did not disappoint in terms of the quality and quantity of rookie cards for fans to collect.

One of the biggest storylines from Bowman 2023 was the loaded rookie class, headlined by catcher Adley Rutschman of the Baltimore Orioles and infielder Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals. Both players had breakout seasons in 2022 and are expected to be franchise cornerstones for their respective clubs. Rutschman and Witt each received prized autographed rookie cards in the set’s various parallels and inserts. Other highly touted prospects like Spencer Torkelson, C.J. Abrams, and Oneil Cruz also received autographed rookie variations that will be hot on the secondary market.

In terms of design, Bowman 2023 featured a clean and classic look with team logos prominently displayed on a white background. The borders on the standard base cards were thin and allowed the photography to really pop. Topps utilized a variety of sharp action shots that highlighted each player’s skills and athleticism. The photography and crisp team colors combined to create a very appealing and cohesive set aesthetically. For collectors who enjoy flashy parallels and inserts, Bowman 2023 also offered numerous hittable short prints and autographs throughout its various retail and hobby box products.

The set extended well beyond just the first year cards with prospect and minor league inserts also featuring the game’s up-and-coming talent. The “Pro Debut” insert showcased players who had recently made their MLB debuts, while “Bowman Draft” and “Bowman’s Best” highlighted draft picks and top prospects. International prospects also received cards through inserts like “Dominican Summer League.” For modern era and throwback collectors, “Bowman Heritage” and “MLB Debut” inserts provided cards from past years as well.

In addition to the base Bowman set, hobby enthusiasts had several associated high-end products to pursue as well. The Bowman Sterling and Bowman Chrome releases presented the same rookie crop but with parallel and autograph variations inserted in shiny chrome and paper formats. Bowman Draft included draft picks from the previous year’s event. Bowman’s Best highlighted top prospects outside of the base set. And Bowman Mega Boxes provided jumbo-sized cards and hit rates above the standard boxes.

Secondary market demand for 2023 Bowman cards was strong out of the gate, driven by the hype around Rutschman, Witt and other top rookies. Short printed parallels and autographs of the elite prospects commanded high prices. Even base rookie cards of the most coveted players rose above typical Bowman levels. This surge of early interest bodes well long-term for the investment potential of the top 2023 Bowman cards as those players establish themselves in the majors.

The 2023 edition of Bowman baseball fulfilled its mission of providing the hobby with an exciting array of rookie cards, prospects and young talent. The photography and design created an aesthetically pleasing set to collect. With a loaded rookie class headlined by future stars, coupled with numerous high-end parallel and autograph products, Bowman 2023 gave collectors plenty to pursue to satisfy their baseball card appetite. Its early secondary market performance also signaled strong long-term potential for cards from this highly regarded flagship rookie set.