Tag Archives: 2023

TOPPS BIG LEAGUE BASEBALL 2023 RARE CARDS

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The 2023 Topps Big League baseball card release offers collectors the chance to find some highly coveted and valuable rookie cards, parallels, and autographs. While most packs contain common base cards, there are also short prints, emerald parallels, materials autographs, and more that make diving into boxes of this flagship product well worth the gamble.

With rookies like Oneil Cruz, Deivi Garcia, and Roansy Contreras making their MLB debuts in 2023, their rookie cards have the potential to become quite valuable depending on how their careers pan out. Cruz in particular has been generating buzz in the early going with his impressive power and speed for a middle infielder. Refractors, Negative refractors, and other scarce parallels of top rookie cards can really take off in value if that player establishes himself as a star.

Emerald parallel cards, numbered to just 99 copies, are some of the premier parallel chase cards in Big League. Pulling a refractor emerald parallel of a big name player would easily net several hundred dollars depending on condition. The emerald parallels utilize a stunning green prismatic foil treatment that makes them really stand out in a collection. Numbered parallels like Orange Ice ( /150), Gold (/50), and Platinum (/1) also tend to carry substantial premiums due to their extremely limited print runs.

Autograph cards are always a major draw for collectors seeking to add a signed piece of memorabilia to their collections. Topps covers the spectrum with materials autographs featuring swatches of bat, jersey, or other pieces of equipment. The most desired materials autographs in 2023 Big League will feature current and emerging stars with multisport signatures on premium pieces of their used gear. Autos of young phenoms like Bobby Witt Jr. will command top prices, while relic autos of legends like Clayton Kershaw remain highly valued.

Hitting big with one of the coveted short prints can lead to a significant payday. Some of the most valuable short prints over the years have included the Mike Trout rookie short print from 2012 Topps, as well as rare negative and negative refractors of stars’ base cards which are peppered throughout wax at an extremely low frequency.

Landing one of the limited rainbow foil short prints, which feature vibrant foilwork and are printed on rare rainbow-colored stock, would surely excite collectors. With such a minuscule print run, these rare short prints become Holy Grails for high-end collectors seeking one-of-a-kind challenge cards. Some examples that could fetch thousands in top grade include a rainbow foil short print of superstar rookie cards or HOF veterans like Babe Ruth.

When it comes to chasing hits, collectors targeting Big League have a reasonable shot at scoring big compared to more premium modern products. With over 800 base cards to find and various hit odds published, it takes less money to build a substantial NBA Prizm collection seeking stars. And there is always the chance of uncovering unexpected black gold in the form of rare parallels, short prints, or autographed gems that take collectors by pleasant surprise.

For the budget-minded, Big League offers great fun and value for money. A blaster box retails around $20, containing 18 packs with various potential hits. Of course there are also higher end hobby boxes that yield 24 packs and improved odds at coveted parallels and autographs for a couple hundred dollars MSRP. Either way, cracking packs is half the allure of the flagship release each year.

While most of the cards pulled will be common base cards, it only takes one big hit to make a Topps Big League product profitable or exciting. Collectors live for the thrill of the chase and never knowing what could be lurking in the next pack. Especially in the case of newer releases like 2023, savvy collectors understand that landing cards of emerging stars or valuable parallels early could pay off down the road as those players careers progress.

Condition is crucial for rare and valuable hits to maximize their potential return. High grade examples of short prints, refractors, 1/1s, and autographs in gem mint condition are what command true tops prices. Though protecting hits is half the fun puzzle once found. Toploaders, one-touches, magnetic holders and quality binders or boxes are indispensable for preserving finds.

Overall, Topps Big League offers accessibility combined with that ever-present chance at greatness that keeps collectors across all budgets involved each year. With its perfect blend of affordability, chase cards, rookie stars, and established legends, the flagship baseball release remains a cornerstone of the industry. Those willing to dig can unearth true treasures that become part of history, excite fans, or better still, pay off an collector’s habit down the road.

2023 TOPPS HERITAGE BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 2023 Topps Heritage baseball card set is the latest retro-style release from Topps that pays homage to classic designs from the 1950s through 1980s. As with past Heritage sets, the 2023 edition contains several young stars and veterans who could have big seasons that increase the value of their rookie cards or base cards. Let’s take a look at some of the top 2023 Topps Heritage baseball cards to watch that have the potential to become quite valuable in the years to come.

One of the most coveted rookie cards in the set is Atlanta Braves outfielder Michael Harris II. Still just 23 years old, Harris had a breakout season in 2022 that saw him hit .297 with 19 home runs and 64 RBI in only 111 games. He also provided stellar defense in center field. Harris is considered a future star and his rookie card in the 2023 Topps Heritage set could appreciate significantly if he continues developing into a perennial All-Star. Another rookie to watch is Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Jonathan Aranda. The 25-year-old didn’t debut until late in 2022 but showed impressive power with 3 home runs in just 27 at-bats. Aranda will have every opportunity to seize the starting shortstop job in 2023 and his rookie card offers speculation value.

Two other young stars who could have big seasons and make their base cards from the set very valuable are Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez and Baltimore Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman. Rodriguez, just 21, had a phenomenal rookie campaign in 2022 that saw him hit .284 with 28 home runs and 75 RBI. He finished second in AL Rookie of the Year voting and is poised for superstardom. His 2023 Topps Heritage base card will likely become a key piece in any high-end collection. Rutschman, meanwhile, had a solid debut in 2022 after being the top prospect in all of baseball. The 24-year-old catcher hit .254 with 7 home runs and 26 RBI in just 92 games as he continues adjusting to the major leagues. Rutschman is a future cornerstone player and his base card carries considerable long-term upside.

A couple veterans who could make their 2023 Topps Heritage base cards very valuable with big walk years are New York Mets pitcher Jacob deGrom and Philadelphia Phillies slugger Bryce Harper. DeGrom, 34, missed most of the 2022 season but when healthy is arguably the best pitcher in baseball. He will be a free agent after the 2023 season and looking to cash in one last time. A return to dominant form could make his base card from this retro set quite collectible long-term. Meanwhile, Harper will also be a free agent after 2023 and looking to prove he’s worth a massive long-term deal at age 30. The former MVP still has offensive star power and another huge season could make his 2023 Topps Heritage base card a strong investment, especially if he re-signs in Philadelphia.

Rookies and young stars aren’t the only players who can see their 2023 Topps Heritage cards appreciate in value over the long run. Veterans still producing at an elite level deep into their careers often develop into valued chase cards for collectors. A few veterans who fit this mold are Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman, New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge, and Atlanta Braves star Ronald Acuña Jr. Freeman will be 34 in 2023 but is as consistent an offensive force as they come at the position. Judge just had an historic 62-home run season at age 30 and remains a perennial MVP candidate. Meanwhile, Acuña is still just 25 and returning from a torn ACL that cost him most of 2022. When healthy, he is a true five-tool talent. All three superstars have the talent and name recognition to see strong, long-term demand for their base cards from this retro-style release.

Of course, one of the biggest storylines entering the 2023 season involves Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Angels. The 27-year-old Japanese star is the first true two-way player of the modern era and continues doing something never before seen in baseball as a top pitcher and hitter. Ohtani just finished second in AL MVP voting for the second straight season and his ceiling seems limitless. His 2023 Topps Heritage base card will likely be one of the set’s most sought-after long-term by collectors hoping to land a card featuring one of the game’s greatest unicorns. If Ohtani can stay healthy and put together another dominant year at the plate and on the mound, his card’s value could skyrocket to new heights.

While rookie cards tend to offer the most speculation value in new releases, the 2023 Topps Heritage set contains several established stars and young talents who could see their base cards appreciate substantially with MVP-caliber seasons. From emerging talents like Harris and Rodriguez to veterans like Freeman, Judge and Acuña still performing at an elite level, this retro-styled release from Topps provides investment opportunities across the board. However, Shohei Ohtani’s two-way talents and continued dominance make his base card one of the set’s surest long-term bets to gain value. Collectors would be wise to watch the performances of these players closely in 2023 and consider adding their cards to holdings.

MOST EXPENSIVE TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 2023

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The 2023 Topps baseball card series featured several highly sought after rookie cards and insert cards that have already skyrocketed in value on the secondary market. While it’s still early and prices may fluctuate, here are some of the most expensive 2023 Topps baseball cards as of now based on recent sales data from major card grading companies like PSA, BGS, and SGC.

The clear number one is the Julio Rodríguez Superfractor auto parallel from Update Series. Julio Rodriguez had a phenomenal rookie season that earned him AL Rookie of the Year honors and helped lead the Seattle Mariners back to the playoffs. His prospect pedigree and stellar rookie campaign has made his rookie cards some of the most in-demand on the modern market. The Ultra Rare Superfractor parallel was only available through hobby boxes, with only a handful known to exist. Graded examples in PSA 10 or BGS Black Label 10 condition have sold for over $50,000, shattering records for 2023 cards. With Rodriguez having such a bright future, these could continue appreciating dramatically.

Another Update Series standout is the gold shimmer parallel auto of Shohei Ohtani, rated the #1 player in baseball by many analysts. As one of the game’s true unicorns able to excel as a dynamic pitcher and feared power hitter, Ohtani has become one of the sport’s biggest stars internationally. His popularity and unique two-way playing ability has created huge demand for his rookie cards. PSA 10 and BGS/SGC Black Label gold shimmer autos have hit auction prices up to $15,000, making it one of the costliest regular parallels pulled in ’23 packs.

The rookie autos of Cardinals’ pitching sensation Jordan Walker have also seen values spike following his dominant affiliated ball debuts. The prized Topps Fire red wave auto parallel #/25 pulled tremendous sums north of $10,000 for top-graded examples. Even regular red refractor rookie autos cleared $3,000-$5,000 for mint quality specimens. Walker’s powerful 6’7 frame and 100+ mph heater created lofty expectations that he appears to be fulfilling, keeping collector fervor high for his coveted first Topps issues.

Topps Archives’ ’65 design parallels held their own. A Babe Ruth ’65 panel auto /5 opened bidding over $9,000 before selling. A Mickey Mantle ’65 yellow parallel /10 and Ted Williams ’65 red parallel /5 anchored prices around $7,000 each for top condition pieces. While not true rookies, the retro nods to baseball’s earliest stars remain collector magnets with the prestigious parallel numbering.

Additional big dollar highlights in the $5,000+ range from 2023 Topps products include a Vladimir Guerrero Jr. red refractor auto /499, an Albert Pujols Zenith gem mint auto /10 with a nine-figure serial number, a gold parallel auto /50 of Wander Franco’s follow up sophomore campaign, a Fernando Tatis Jr. Sp authentic auto /99 before his suspension, and a prized Aaron Judge Archives ’87 design black parallel auto /5 as he chased the AL home run title.

2023 also featured several highly acclaimed insert sets that found collectors eager to add pristine examples to their collections at impressive prices. The flagship Topps Finest set paid tribute to past legends with on-card autographs on a retro design. A Nolan Ryan auto /25 and Mickey Mantle auto /10 both topped $4,000 in PSA 10 condition.

Topps Chrome Update introduced its popular Zenith parallels with intricate refractors. A Shohei Ohtani blue parallel /50 and Juan Soto purple parallel /10 crossed five figures. Topps Chromazen’s all-refractor parallel autos also commanded big bucks, led by a Julio Rodriguez aqua auto /25 upping the ante near $3,000.

Of course, as the modern collecting market matures, values will depend heavily on longterm player performances and career milestones down the road. Injuries or unexpected declines could cause certain cards to drop off sharply. But for now, the eye-popping rookie seasons of names like Julio Rodriguez, Jordan Walker, and continued dominance of Ohtani and Soto have 2023 Topps issues firmly planted among the sport’s new premium vintage for discerning collectors. With immense prospects for continued success, these cards could stand the test of time at the uppermost summit of the hobby.

While prices can be unpredictable, the 2023 Topps series featured several exceptionally hyped young stars and parallels that have hit monumental threshold values already. Between breakout talents blossoming before collectors’ eyes and insert sets paying homage to legends, the vintage has provided no shortage of choice collectibles attaining true blue chip status. With baseball’s expanding global fanbase engaging the market, 2023 may prove one of the hobby’s most noteworthy modern years in the annals of valuable sports cards.

2023 TOPPS BASEBALL ERROR CARDS

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The 2023 Topps baseball card release marks another year where collectors can hunt for valuable production mistakes and variations within the flagship set. As with any large printing run, a few errors are bound to slip through quality control. Some of these mistakes end up being quite rare and increase dramatically in value when found. Let’s take a closer look at some of the specific error cards to watch out for from the 2023 Topps baseball release.

One of the first errors reported involved Red Sox star Rafael Devers. In his main base card, the photo is slightly off-center compared to the standard issue versions. Only a small sliver of white space is visible on the right side of the card. With Devers being a star player on a big market team, this off-center photo variation is quite sought after by collectors. Early PSA Gem Mint 10 graded examples were selling for over $100, far more than a standard Devers base card.

Another popular Red Sox player, Xander Bogaerts, also has an exciting error variation. On his base card, the team designation under his name is missing the “Sox” text. Instead of the usual “Boston Red Sox” it just says “Boston ” with a gap before listing his position. This is a very obvious error that makes this card quite rare. Only a small number are believed to exist. One recently sold for close to $500 in a PSA 10 slab on eBay.

Rookie cards tend to be a hot spot for valuable mistakes since they feature future stars very early in their careers. In 2023 Topps, Diamondbacks prospect Drey Jameson has an exciting error on one of his rookie cards. On card #373 from the “Rookie Flashback” insert set, the team logo at the top is missing entirely. Just a blank blue space appears where the D-Backs logo should be. With Jameson having elite potential, this is a key card to hunt for errors. Pristine PSA 10 examples could eventually sell for thousands.

Errors aren’t limited just to photos or logos. Sometimes it’s the player’s name itself that is misspelled or missing entirely. In 2023 Topps, Reds pitcher Hunter Greene has such an error. On one of his cards from the “Top Prospects” insert set, his last name is completely missing. It just reads “Hunter ” with a blank space below. Text errors like this involving star players make for very valuable mistakes.

The biggest error card of the year involves superstar Shohei Ohtani from the Angels. In the “Stars of MLB” insert set, card number 161 features Ohtani on the front. On the back of the card, it has stats and info for an entirely different player – Braves pitcher Spencer Strider. This is about as extreme of a text and photo swap error as you will find. Only a tiny number of these are believed to exist. Examples that grade PSA or BGS Gem Mint could potentially sell for tens of thousands down the road.

In addition to specific player errors, there are also mistakes involving entire teams. For example, in the base set, the Chicago Cubs team logo on card #350 is missing the middle letter “U”. It just reads “Cbs” at the top. Another team error sees the Tampa Bay Rays logo on card #375 missing the first “A”. It spells out “Tay Rays” instead. Errors like this that involve full logos rather than just single players hold significant value as well, especially when they are found in high grades.

Autograph cards tend to have their fair share of mistakes too since player signatures can vary more than photos. In 2023 Topps, White Sox prospect Colson Montgomery has an exciting auto error. On his “Rookie Debut” autographed parallel card, his last name is signed as “Montgmery” with the O and E flipped. Autograph errors like this that are clearly not the player’s normal signature can be quite valuable to collectors.

As with any release, expect to see additional 2023 Topps errors pop up in the coming months that haven’t been widely reported yet. Things like missing or incorrect uniform numbers, stat typos, and photo color variations all have potential to emerge. For error card collectors and investors, it’s always worth diligently searching through new releases for anything that doesn’t look quite right. The rarest mistakes can end up being long-term keepers.

While errors are never intentional, they provide collectors a fun aspect of the hobby – the thrill of the hunt. Carefully examining cards under bright lighting or powerful magnifying glasses can occasionally reveal mistakes that others may miss. For those with a keen eye and patience to sort through many cards, the 2023 Topps release offers another opportunity to potentially find a valuable error. Only time will tell which errors stand out most, but the hunt is half the fun for many in the hobby.

2023 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CARDS TCDB

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As the 2023 baseball season approaches, collectors are keeping an eye out for the upcoming releases of minor league baseball cards from Topps. Each year, Topps includes prospects, rookie cards, and players from the lower levels of the minors in their flagship baseball sets. These cards offer fans an early look at future major leaguers and a chance to acquire cards of players before they reach the show.

Topps is expected to once again include minor leaguers in both their Series 1 and Series 2 releases in 2023. Based on past years, collectors can anticipate finding cards of some of the top prospects in the minors mixed in with major league veterans. Topps has rights deals with most minor league teams, so players from Triple-A down to rookie ball levels will be represented. Ranging from base cards to short prints and parallels, these rookie cards offer an affordable entry point for collectors interested in the next generation of baseball stars.

While release dates have not been officially announced, Topps Series 1 typically hits stores in late February or early March. Series 2 then follows in late May or early June. Both sets contain approximately 300 total cards with a mixture of veterans, prospects, and minor leaguers. Topps also releases special minor league-focused sets like Topps Pro Debut each year, but Series 1 and 2 offer the largest sampling of the lower levels within mainstream flagship products.

An invaluable resource for researching and identifying minor league cards is the Trading Card Database, known as TCDB. This website acts as a card registry and tracker, allowing users to look up players, teams, sets, and specific cards. TCDB has detailed records for every Topps minor league release going back decades. Collectors can search by player name, team, or set to view all the cards produced of a particular prospect over the years as they progressed through the minors.

TCDB also provides checklists, release information, and population reports for each Topps set. This allows collectors to see exactly which minor league teams and levels were included that year. Population reports indicate the scarcity of certain parallels and short prints as well. With the database, it’s easy to look back and discover which current stars first appeared as prospects in past Topps minor league issues before making the majors.

While the rosters and player pool change annually, Topps reliably selects many of the top-rated prospects according to various prospect ranking platforms. Sites like MLB Pipeline, Baseball America, and FanGraphs publish their preseason top 100 lists each winter. Referencing these lists gives collectors an idea of which up-and-coming talents may debut in the next Topps Series releases. Players like Wander Franco, Bobby Witt Jr., and Julio Rodriguez first appeared in Topps as highly-touted prospects before becoming established major leaguers.

Tracking prospects and their progression from level to level is part of the appeal of collecting minor league cards. Many players spend years in the minors refining their skills before getting the call to the show. Topps provides a way to follow these developing careers one card at a time. While not all prospects pan out, the cards retain value for fans who enjoy seeing the journey. Even if a player never makes the majors, their minor league rookie cards still hold significance for documenting their time in the farm system.

With the sheer number of players and teams involved in the minors each season, Topps sets offer an affordable cross-section for collectors. Individual minor league teams also have regional sets produced by companies like Blowout Cards, but Topps remains the most widely available issuer. While the checklist hits and misses, it’s always exciting to potentially uncover the next big star hiding among the base cards of Series 1 and 2 in their earliest card appearances. Minor league cards represent the future of the game and a chance to acquire rookies before they hit the big time. As a new season of prospects develops on the field, collectors will be looking ahead to see who makes their cardboard debuts in 2023 Topps.

This overview of 2023 minor league baseball cards from Topps highlighted key details collectors can use to research and identify prospects within flagship releases. Websites like TCDB provide invaluable resources for tracking players’ progressions through the minors one card at a time. While the specific checklists remain unseen, Topps reliably showcases many top prospects each year based on scouting evaluations. For fans of the farm system and future stars of the show, minor league cards represent an affordable entry point and exciting glimpse into the next generation of MLB talent.

BOWMAN BASEBALL CARDS 2023 ROOKIES

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The 2023 Bowman Baseball card set is one of the most highly anticipated releases of the year due to the exciting rookie class that is eligible to be included. Bowman is famous for being the first brand to feature rookie cards of future superstars like Mike Trout, Bryce Harper, and Ronald Acuña Jr. Collectors are always on the hunt for the next big star, and 2023 Bowman offers plenty of promising prospects.

Some of the top rookies collectors have their eyes on include Druw Jones, Termarr Johnson, and Elijah Green. Jones was drafted second overall by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 2022 MLB Draft and is the son of five-time All-Star Andruw Jones. Scouts rave about his impressive tools and athleticism, projecting him as a future five-tool player. He slashed .362/.477/.626 with 13 home runs in 40 games in his lone season at Wesleyan High School in Georgia. His pedigree and early pro success make him one of the crown jewels of the 2023 rookie class.

Green was selected fifth overall by the Cincinnati Reds and has been compared to Mike Trout for his five-tool potential. The outfielder has elite bat speed, raw power, speed, and defensive abilities. In his senior season at Mountain Pointe High School in Arizona, he hit .418 with 13 home runs and was clocked running the 60-yard dash in 6.57 seconds. Green is considered arguably the best pure hitter in the 2023 draft class and could be a true five-category fantasy stud if he reaches his lofty ceiling.

Termarr Johnson was the fourth overall pick by the Pittsburgh Pirates after a stellar two-way career at Mays High School in Georgia. As a shortstop, he has excellent range and a howitzer for an arm. At the plate, he has plus speed and raw power potential. In his senior season, he slashed .412/.500/.735 with 13 home runs and 30 stolen bases. His combination of offensive and defensive skills have drawn comparisons to Francisco Lindor. If he continues developing as expected, Johnson could be an all-star caliber shortstop.

Some other top prospects that may receive prominent rookie cards in 2023 Bowman include Elijah Cabell (Phillies), Brock Porter (Rangers), Owen Caissie (Blue Jays), and Jackson Holliday (Orioles). Cabell was drafted 18th overall out of IMG Academy in Florida. He has a smooth left-handed swing and gap power potential. Porter was selected 21st overall and sits in the mid-90s with his fastball while also flashing a plus slider. Caissie has huge raw power potential and was taken 26th overall out of Notre Dame Catholic High School in California. Holliday, son of former MLB outfielder Matt Holliday, was drafted first overall by Baltimore after slashing .685/.749/1.392 with 40 extra-base hits in just 27 games as a senior at Stillwater High School in Oklahoma.

Aside from the top draft picks, 2023 Bowman is also expected to include the rookie cards of several of the biggest international prospects signed last summer. Infielder Ezequiel Tovar (Rockies) and outfielder Daniel Susac (Arizona Diamondbacks) could both receive prominent cards after receiving bonuses over $3 million as amateurs. Tovar is an elite defender at shortstop with surprising power while Susac has a advanced hit tool and power potential for a catcher.

Other intriguing international prospects that may debut in Bowman include shortstop Gabriel Rodriguez (Cubs), outfielder Jhonkensy Noel (Red Sox), and third baseman Ronaldo Urdaneta (Mariners). Rodriguez received $1.5 million from Chicago and has all the tools to be an impact player. Noel was signed for $1.35 million and has huge raw power potential. Urdaneta signed for $1.2 million and has a smooth left-handed swing with gap power. His defense at the hot corner is also well above average.

Bowman also typically includes the rookie cards for breakout performers from the lower levels of minor leagues. Some names to watch out for in 2023 include catcher Kevin Parada (Braves), shortstop Jordan Lawlar (D-backs), and outfielder Chase DeLauter (Orioles). Parada was taken 26th overall in 2021 and slashed .260/.353/.509 with 19 home runs between Low-A and High-A as a 20-year-old in 2022. Lawlar was the 16th pick in 2021 and hit .290 with 13 home runs and 20 stolen bases between Low-A and High-A last season. DeLauter was selected 74th overall in 2021 and led the Carolina League with 27 home runs in 2022 while hitting .256.

Collectors will also be on the lookout for rookie cards of top international free agents signed last summer like shortstops Roderick Arias (Braves) and Lucas Gordon (Giants). Arias signed for $4 million and Gordon received $4.25 million. Other international prospects that could debut include Dominican shortstop Jean Ramirez (Rays) and Dominican outfielder Javier Osorio (Red Sox).

The 2023 Bowman release is shaping up to have one of the most exciting rookie classes in recent memory. With elite talents like Druw Jones, Termarr Johnson, and Elijah Green headlining the draft picks and a loaded group of international prospects, it’s easy to see why collectors are eagerly anticipating this set. The rookie cards found in Bowman often end up being valuable long-term investments, so breaking boxes and packs of 2023 Bowman offers plenty of opportunity to potentially acquire the next generation of baseball stars.

BEST 2023 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 baseball card season is shaping up to be another exciting year in the hobby. With rookies like Julio Rodriguez and Bobby Witt Jr. breaking out in their first full MLB seasons in 2022, collectors have their eyes on the next wave of young stars to chase. Veterans are also putting together career years that could make for memorable cardboard. Let’s take a look at some of the top prospects, rookies, and veterans to keep an eye on in 2023 baseball cards.

One of the most anticipated rookie classes in recent memory will be featured in 2023 sets. Seattle Mariners center fielder Julio Rodriguez had a phenomenal debut season that has vaulted him to the top of most prospect lists. His autographed and numbered rookie cards could be the jewels of the year. Bobby Witt Jr. showed why he was a can’t-miss prospect by hitting double digit home runs as a 21-year-old with the Kansas City Royals. Adley Rutschman also made his much-anticipated debut with the Baltimore Orioles and displayed why he was the top pick in the 2019 draft. All three are likely to have 1st Bowman Chrome and Topps Chrome Update RCs that will be hotly pursued.

Two of baseball’s brightest young stars in Wander Franco and Ronald Acuña Jr. are still eligible to be featured as rookies in 2023. Franco dazzled in his first full season with the Tampa Bay Rays and could have a true rookie card after only playing in 70 games in 2021. Acuña is returning from an ACL injury that cost him almost all of 2022, but collectors will be eager to add his first full season cards to their collections. On the pitching side, Miami Marlins lefty Trevor Rogers looks primed for a breakout season after two strong campaigns and his Topps Chrome Update RC could be one to watch.

Veteran superstars are also having career-defining seasons that could make their 2023 cards stand out. Shohei Ohtani is a cinch to win the AL MVP award after another two-way tour de force with the Los Angeles Angels. His autographed cards from Topps, Panini, and other brands will hold tremendous value. Aaron Judge broke the AL single season home run record with 62 dingers and is a free agent, so cards from whatever team he signs with will be hot commodities. Mookie Betts led the Dodgers to a World Series title and continues to produce at an elite level. His cards remain some of the most coveted in the hobby.

Rookies and veterans aren’t the only players who can have big 2023 cards. Breakout seasons from young stars like Julio Rodríguez, Bobby Witt Jr., and others will make their sophomore year cards highly sought after. Ronald Acuña Jr. is another who collectors will want cards from as he returns from injury looking to regain superstar form. Veterans continuing to defy Father Time like Albert Pujols and Miguel Cabrera chasing milestones create opportunities for memorable cards as well. Autographed parallels and numbered refractors from flagship products will lead the way.

The National League MVP race between Paul Goldschmidt and Nolan Arenado added intrigue to the Cardinals and could produce two more stars with top 2023 cards. Goldschmidt is having a career year at age 35 while Arenado continues to be one of the best all-around third basemen in the game. St. Louis is poised to battle the Dodgers and Braves for NL supremacy, keeping the Redbirds in the spotlight. Within the Cardinals organization, top prospect Jordan Walker made strides and his first Topps Chrome Update cards will be a priority.

Panini Prizm and Panini Contenders are two of the hottest modern card brands and their 2023 releases are must-haves. Prizm has become the de facto “rookie card” product thanks to its flashy refractors and parallels. Top rookies like Rodriguez, Witt, and Rutschman will lead the way alongside veterans like Ohtani and Judge. Contenders focuses on on-card autographs, creating a treasure hunt for collectors. Hits of emerging stars and veterans in career-defining seasons will reign supreme. Both Panini lines offer collectors affordable alternative options to the flagship Topps products as well.

Topps Chrome and Bowman Chrome remain the gold standards that other products are judged by. Topps Chrome Update is the pinnacle release for rookie class cards thanks to its sharp photography and refractor parallel options. Bowman Chrome is still the first card home for most top prospects and offers the earliest cardboard for players yet to debut in the majors. Superfractor parallels remain the holy grail. Topps Finest also provides high-end refractors and autographs of the year’s top performers. These staple Topps products will continue to drive the overall 2023 baseball card season.

From rookies like Rodriguez and Witt making their mark to veterans like Ohtani and Judge producing MVP caliber seasons, the 2023 baseball card year is primed to be an exciting one. Top prospects continuing to develop, stars returning from injury, and veterans staying productive all create opportunities for memorable cardboard. Flagship Topps products like Chrome, Bowman Chrome, and Finest lead the way supplemented by hot modern brands like Panini Prizm and Contenders. With a new crop of rookies and career years from established names, 2023 looks to have no shortage of cards that will be coveted by collectors for years to come.

TOP CARDS IN BOWMAN 2023 BASEBALL

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The 2023 Bowman baseball release is one of the most highly anticipated rookie card releases each year. While it’s still early, scouts and prospect analysts have started to identify some of the top young prospects who are likely to have the most sought after rookie cards in the upcoming Bowman set. With rosters not even fully set for next season yet, there is still uncertainty. Here are some early predictions on some of the names to keep an eye on whose rookie cards could be big hits in 2023 Bowman.

Druw Jones (OF, Atlanta Braves) – As the second overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, Jones comes with huge expectations as the son of former star Andruw Jones. Scouts rave about his five-tool talents and say he has the potential to be a true five-tool player in the big leagues. He also has the bonus of being part of the loaded Atlanta system. His prospect status and pedigree make him an early favorite to have the hottest rookie card in 2023 Bowman.

Termarr Johnson (SS, Atlanta Braves) – Another piece of the great Atlanta system, Johnson has all the makings of a potential star. He showcased impressive all-around skills in his pro debut season and has the type of flashy tools that cause cards to rise. As a high 2019 draft pick, he also has experience against top competition. His rookie cards should be in high demand.

Max Muncy (SS, Los Angeles Dodgers) – As the third overall pick in the 2022 draft by the Dodgers, Muncy garnered lots of attention for his hitting abilities. He has a sweet lefty swing and great bat-to-ball skills that could translate well in pro ball. Playing in Los Angeles always brings attention as well. His cards may not reach Druw Jones heights, but should be a hot commodity.

Carson Tucker (3B, St. Louis Cardinals) – The brother of Pirates star Ke’Bryan Hayes, Tucker has skills of his own that made him a first round pick by St. Louis in 2022. He hits for average and power and should move quickly as a polished college hitter. St. Louis always develops young talent well too. He seems likely to jump on the prospect radar fast.

Jackson Holliday (SS, Baltimore Orioles) – As the number one overall pick in 2022, Holliday was already one of the most well-known prospects entering pro ball. He consistently dominated top competition and has the all-fields hitting ability to be a true middle of the order bat. Playing in Baltimore brings less hype than bigger markets, but his prospect status should make his rookie cards very sought after.

Brooks Lee (3B, Los Angeles Angels) – The 2021 first rounder had an excellent first full pro season that saw him shoot up prospect lists. He stands out for his polished all-around hitting skills at an up-the-middle defensive position. The Angels also have an exciting young core forming. His breakout 2022 only increased curiosity around his potential, meaning strong card demand.

Ethan Murray (OF, Tampa Bay Rays) – An athletic and toolsy athlete, Murray was one of the highest upside picks from the 2022 draft. He has plus raw power from the left side and great defensive instincts in the outfield. The Rays also have a proven farm system that develops talent exceptionally well. His upside alone could make him intriguing to collectors early on.

Marco Luciano (SS, San Francisco Giants) – While not truly a rookie after playing in 2021, Luciano remains one of the highest ceiling shortstop prospects in baseball. Injuries slowed his progress some in 2022, but when right he has true five-tool star potential. Playing in San Francisco with Buster Posey’s retirement opening opportunities also enhances his cards’ appeal.

Robert Hassell III (OF, San Diego Padres) – A favorite of many analysts coming out of the 2021 draft, Hassell had a strong pro debut season to live up to lofty hype so far. He makes consistent contact and his all-fields bat should play well in games. The left-handed bat in the Padres’ exciting young outfield core adds to his attractions for collectors too.

Jackson Jobe (RHP, Detroit Tigers) – As one of the top pitching prospects in the minors, Jobe’s stuff and command made him the third overall pick in 2021. His impressive minor league debut only increased expectations for his future as a frontline starter. Even with some risk inherent to pitchers, the upside is enticing for speculators looking for the next big arm to emerge.

Sam Bachman (RHP, Los Angeles Angels) – Pitching comes with more risk than hitters, but Bachman’s pure stuff and athletic ability gives him a high ceiling. Selected ninth overall in 2021, he showed three quality pitches in a brief pro debut that hinted at his potential. As the Angels look to build around young arms, he could emerge as their next great starter.

Of course, much can change over the next year before 2023 Bowman arrives. Injuries and adjustments to pro ball for these prospects and others could alter perceptions. Additional names may also emerge onto the scene over the season. For now, these look like some of the headlining rookies whose cards have the best shot at becoming coveted prizes for those who pull them fresh from packs in the upcoming release. With so much potential among recent draftees and the games’ top prospects, 2023 Bowman is certainly shaping up as a release to watch closely.

2023 TOPPS HERITAGE BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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Topps Heritage is one of the most popular and valuable baseball card sets released each year by Topps. The 2023 Topps Heritage set pays homage to classic baseball designs from the late 1960s. While the set just came out in late 2022, some of the rookie cards and star players are already gaining value as collectors seek out these retro-style cards. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the top cards from the 2023 Topps Heritage set that are likely to increase in value over time.

One of the most valuable rookie cards in the set is Julio Rodriguez of the Seattle Mariners. Rodriguez had a breakout rookie season in 2022 that saw him named American League Rookie of the Year. He hit 28 home runs and drove in 75 runs while batting .284. His exciting play and bright future make his rookie card a hot commodity. While most of his base rookie cards can currently be found for around $20-30, graded gem mint copies have already sold for over $100. As Rodriguez continues to develop into a potential superstar, this rookie card could gain significantly in value in the coming years.

Another rookie on the rise is Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals. Witt had a solid debut season in 2022 where he hit 20 home runs and stole 30 bases. He showed potential to be a five-tool player and the future cornerstone for the Royals. Witt’s rookie card from Heritage is still relatively affordable, with most copies going for $10-15 currently. As he gains more experience, puts up bigger numbers, and leads the Royals back to relevance, this card will become much harder to find for under $50-75. In the long run, a near-gem mint or gem mint Witt rookie could realistically be worth $250-$500 depending on his career progression.

Superstar shortstops tend to have some of the most valuable cards long-term. Fernando Tatis Jr. of the San Diego Padres is one of the faces of baseball and remains one of the most exciting players in the game when on the field. Unfortunately, injuries and a PED suspension limited him to just 35 games in 2022. But when at full strength, he is a perennial MVP candidate. His Heritage base card can currently be found for around $15-20. A BGS or PSA graded gem mint Tatis rookie would sell for $300-$500 now and has potential to reach $1,000+ if he puts together a few more All-Star caliber seasons.

Two-way phenom Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Angels continues to amaze with his ability to both pitch and hit at an elite level. In 2023, he is a strong favorite to win his second straight AL MVP award. As one of the most unique and talented players of this generation, Ohtani’s cards hold tremendous value. While his base Heritage card goes for around $15-20 currently, a near-mint to gem mint copy could fetch over $100. A BGS/PSA 10 black label perfect grade could sell for $500+ right now and has a very high ceiling as Ohtani’s career progresses. He may end up as one of the most valuable modern cards long-term.

Superstar veterans like Mike Trout also have highly sought after cards in Heritage. As arguably the best player of his generation, Trout has incredible name recognition and fan interest. His base Heritage sells in the $8-12 range currently. But a high-grade rookie or star rookie variant could be worth $300+ for a PSA/BGS 9.5 or 10. And a true perfect black label BGS/PSA 10 grade Trout rookie would command well over $1,000. With continued elite play, a near-flawless Trout rookie could reach $5,000+ down the road.

Rookies and young stars are great long-term investments, but proven veterans can offer more stability. Cards of likely Hall of Famers in their prime like Mookie Betts and Juan Soto are always in demand. A Betts or Soto base Heritage in near-mint to gem mint condition could sell for $50-100 now. And if they continue piling up accolades and championships, those cards could gain exponentially over the next decade. Other established superstars like Aaron Judge, Bryce Harper, and Yordan Alvarez also have Heritage cards that hold value due to their proven track records of excellence so far.

As with any trading card set, condition and grading make a huge difference in long-term value. Cards that receive high grades of BGS/PSA 9 or 9.5 typically sell for 2-5 times more than raw, ungraded copies. And the elusive BGS/PSA 10 black label “perfect” grades can be 10-50 times rarer and more expensive. For the highest valued cards in the 2023 Topps Heritage set, a true flawless graded 10 could end up being worth thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars decades from now for the all-time greats.

While prices may fluctuate year to year based on player performance and economic conditions, the 2023 Topps Heritage set features several rookies, stars and Hall of Famers whose cards stand to gain tremendous value if they live up to their potential or cement an incredible career legacy. Savvy collectors who acquire these cards now in top condition could make a great long-term investment. The retro design also gives the set nostalgic appeal that should help sustain collector interest for decades to come.

DONRUSS 2023 BASEBALL CARDS INSERTS

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Donruss is one of the most iconic brands in the baseball card industry and their 2023 offering continues their tradition of including exciting and collectible inserts in hobby boxes and packs. Insert sets within Donruss releases provide collectors chase cards to aim for outside of the base set and give the product additional value, nostalgia, and fun for players. Here’s an in-depth look at some of the top inserts collectors can find in 2023 Donruss baseball boxes.

Parallels – As with most modern releases, Donruss 2023 includes several parallel versions of base cards that vary in color and print run rarity. The most common are the Green and Orange parallels, followed by the harder to find Red and Pink parallels. The rarest and most sought after are the Gold parallels, limited to only 5 copies per card. Finding any of the rarer parallels is a thrill for collectors and they command strong premiums in the secondary market.

Stars of the Game – One of the flagship insert sets each year focuses on capturing iconic MLB player performances and milestones. The Stars of the Game cards for 2023 highlight big home run, hit, or pitching stats from the previous season. Some examples include Aaron Judge’s 62 home run season with the Yankees or Paul Goldschmidt’s NL-leading 35 doubles for the Cardinals. With photo or artwork variations, these popular inserts capture the essence of the game.

League Leaders – Stat geeks will enjoy chasing the League Leaders inserts highlighting the top performers in major offensive and pitching categories for both the American and National Leagues. Categories featured include batting average, home runs, RBI, wins, ERA, and more. Finding the card of the player who led your favorite team in a category provides an extra thrill. These detailed stats inserts satisfy baseball purists.

Diamond Greats – Paying tribute to the legends of the game, Diamond Greats inserts spotlight iconic players and their career accomplishments. The 2023 set honors stars from across baseball history with photo and artwork highlights of their top seasons, World Series wins, milestones, and more. Examples include cards for Hank Aaron, Sandy Koufax, and Cal Ripken Jr. Nostalgic collectors seek out their favorite players in this prestigious insert set.

Rookie Materials – For those chasing the next generation of stars, Rookie Materials inserts showcase top prospects as they begin their MLB journeys. Crafted from memorabilia swatches or autographs, these rookie cards capture the promise and excitement of a player’s early career. The 2023 class features rookies like Bobby Witt Jr, Spencer Torkelson, and Julio Rodriguez. Hits in this coveted set can gain significant long term value.

Stars of the Futures – As a spin-off of the flagship Stars of the Game insert, Stars of the Futures highlights breakout minor league performances from top prospects. Categories like home runs, hits, stolen bases provide a glimpse of future success. While not as valuable as autograph or relic cards, these inserts allow collectors to invest early in players still making their way to the show.

Diamond Icons – Honoring the most elite players in baseball history, Diamond Icons are 1/1 unique memorabilia cards featuring true one-of-a-kind relics from the games legends. Past examples include a piece of a bat used for Barry Bonds’ record breaking 756th home run or a cleat spike from Willie Mays’ 1957 MVP season. The thrill of the hunt for such a rare and meaningful piece of history inspires collectors.

Stadium Sites – For fans of baseball architecture, Stadium Sites inserts showcase iconic ballpark landmarks and environments. Vivid photos capture memorable details like the Green Monster in Boston, the ivy walls at Wrigley Field, or historic plaques from defunct venues. Armchair travelers enjoy collecting views of their favorite and most famous fields of dreams.

League Top Prospects – As a companion to the Rookie Materials set, League Top Prospects provides snapshots of some of the highest rated minor leaguers on the cusp of the majors. While not featuring memorabilia, these inserts allow collectors to invest in top talents like George Kirby, Bobby Miller, and Druw Jones before they hit the bigs. Sleeper prospects can provide long term returns.

Decades Greats – Taking a retrospective look back through baseball history, Decades Greats honors stars and performances from specific eras. The 2023 set features cards highlighting the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s and 1990s. Collectors can seek out their favorite old school players like Roberto Clemente, Reggie Jackson, or Pedro Martinez preserved in vintage style photography and artwork true to the period. Nostalgia runs deep with these inserts.

As this overview illustrates, Donruss 2023 offers collectors a wide array of creative and collectible inserts beyond the base checklist across various hobby boxes, blasters, and hangers. Between parallels, rookie and prospects cards, tributes to legends and eras, and one-of-a-kind memorabilia, there are plenty of chase cards to fuel the hunt. The inserts provide additional layers of interest, value, and nostalgia that enhance the Donruss experience for players. With quality photography, creative designs, and subjects spanning all levels of the game, these sets capture what makes baseball card collecting such an enduring hobby.