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HOUSTON ASTROS 2022 BASEBALL CARDS

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The Houston Astros are coming off another successful 2022 season that saw them return to the World Series for the second time in six years. They ultimately fell short against the Philadelphia Phillies. As the Astros look ahead to 2023, baseball card collectors have 2022 editions to commemorate a historic AL West division title.

This Astros team has grown accustomed to winning in recent years, capturing five division crowns since 2017. At the center of it all stands superstar shortstop Carlos Correa, who is one of the faces of the franchise. Unfortunately for Houston fans, Correa signed a huge free agent deal with the Minnesota Twins following the 2021 season.

For the 2022 campaign, the Astros turned to veteran free agent acquisition Jeremy Peña to take over at shortstop. And boy, did Peña deliver in his rookie season. The 25-year old wowed with his poise and production, slashing .289/.345/.517 with 22 home runs and 63 RBI over 146 games. Peña’s monster rookie year performance earned him American League Championship Series MVP honors and cemented him as Correa’s long-term successor. His top rookie card from 2022 releases like Topps, Panini and Bowman Chrome are sure to be highly sought after collectors items for years to come.

Another big storyline from this Astros team revolved around veteran ace Justin Verlander, who made a triumphant return from Tommy John surgery that cost him the entire 2021 season. At 39 years old, Verlander enjoyed a Cy Young-caliber campaign, posting a stellar 1.75 ERA with 185 strikeouts over 28 starts. Having Verlander back leading the rotation was a huge boost and his pitching dominance netted him an AL Cy Young and ALCS MVP award. His 2022 flagship rookie cards from the major brands should hold strong collectible value.

Offensive catalyst Jose Altuve also had a vintage season in his Age-32 campaign. The 5-foot-6 second baseman continues to defy Father Time, as he slashed .300/.387/.533 with 28 home runs and 57 RBI. Altuve remains one of the best pure hitters in baseball and a bonafide Astros legend after over a decade with the organization. His cards from this year, including autographed and memorabilia versions, will be a mainstay in team collections.

In the outfield, young sluggers Yordan Álvarez and Kyle Tucker broke out even more in 2022. Álvarez belted 37 home runs and led the AL with a 1.019 OPS while driving in 97 runs. Meanwhile, Tucker set career-highs with 29 homers and 107 RBI to go along with a .267 batting average. Both Álvarez and Tucker are cornerstone pieces for Houston’s dynamic offense and their rising star power makes their 2022 cards a wise long term baseball investment.

On the pitching side, veteran righty Lance McCullers Jr. returned from his own Tommy John layoff to deliver 174 innings of 3.16 ERA ball. His changeup remains one of baseball’s most unhittable pitches. 2020 AL Cy Young winner Zack Greinke also provided 183 innings of reliable rotation work in his age-38 campaign. Closer Ryan Pressly closed out 35 games with a 2.98 ERA and 33 saves in 55.1 innings pitched. These veterans bring stability to Houston’s staff.

While the Astros fell just short of their ultimate goal in 2022, this core group has proven to be perennial contenders who know how to win. Their chase for a second championship in six years will continue in 2023 and beyond. Collecting their tops rookies and stars from this past season offers an investment in one of baseball’s model franchises. This Astros team has all the ingredients to sustain long-term success, making their 2022 baseball cards a collection worth building.

ASTROS BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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While the Astros franchise dates back to 1962, the team has seen tremendous success in recent decades that has made their star players highly collectible in the baseball card hobby. From vintage cards of legends to modern rookies, here are some of the most valuable Astros cards collectors seek.

One of the most iconic vintage Astros cards that can fetch big money is the 1969 Topps Nolan Ryan rookie card. As one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball history, Ryan’s rookie is a true Holy Grail for collectors. High grade examples in PSA/BGS 10 condition have sold for over $50,000 in recent years. Another highly valuable 1960s Astros rookie is the 1968 Topps Don Wilson. As an All-Star pitcher who threw a no-hitter in 1969, Wilson’s rookie card in top condition can reach $4,000-$5,000.

Moving into the 1970s, the 1972 Topps Joe Morgan rookie is a must-have for Astros collectors. Morgan went on to have a Hall of Fame career mostly with the Reds, making his rookie one of the most coveted from the early 70s. PSA 10 examples have sold for around $15,000. High-grade copies of the 1971 Topps Larry Dierker and 1973 Topps Enos Cabell rookies can also command $500-$1,000 due to their All-Star caliber careers.

In the 1980s, two Astros legends had hugely valuable rookie cards. The most expensive is the 1981 Topps Nolan Ryan insert card, depicting his record-setting fifth no-hitter. High grades of this iconic card reach $10,000+. The 1984 Donruss Jeff Bagwell rookie is also a true blockbuster, with PSA 10s selling for $6,000-$8,000 in recent years. Other 1980s Astros stars like Mike Scott, Glenn Davis, and Craig Biggio have rookies worth $100-$300 in top condition as well.

Modern Astros cards from the late 90s/2000s golden era can also hold great value. The 1998 Bowman’s Best Lance Berkman and 1999 Bowman’s Best Billy Wagner rookies have reached $500-$1,000 for top copies. But the biggest modern money cards center around Astros legends from their 2005 World Series championship team and beyond.

The 2004 Bowman Chrome Lance Berkman and 2004 Topps Roy Oswalt rookies are two true heavy-hitters, with PSA 10s selling for $3,000-$5,000 each. High grades of the 2005 Topps Roy Oswalt and Andy Pettitte are also $500-$1,000 cards. But the true blockbuster is the 2004 Bowman Chrome Roger Clemens Astros rookie card. As one of the greatest pitchers ever on a contender, PSA 10s have reached astronomical prices upwards of $20,000 in recent years.

Moving into the 2010s, cards of franchise cornerstones Carlos Correa and Alex Bregman have major potential. Bregman’s 2015 Bowman Chrome Auto refractor rookie in a PSA 10 recently sold for $4,000. Correa’s 2015 Bowman Chrome Auto refractor rookie in a PSA 10 has reached $6,000 as well. As they continue their careers, these could grow significantly in value as they did for Bagwell and Biggio.

Other modern Astros of note include the 2013 Topps Justin Verlander, 2014 Topps Lance McCullers Jr., and 2015 Topps Carlos Correa Update rookies, which have reached $300-$500 for top grades. And for super high-end collectors, 1/1 printing plates and autographs of stars like Jose Altuve, George Springer, and Justin Verlander can sell for thousands depending on the player and issue.

The Astros franchise history is filled with Hall of Fame talent that has created a deep well of valuable baseball cards for collectors. From vintage stars to modern contenders, top rookies and inserts of Astros legends consistently demand high prices. With continued success, cards of current cornerstones like Altuve, Bregman and Correa should only grow more coveted and expensive for years to come.

2022 ASTROS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2022 Houston Astros are hoping to build on their impressive 2021 season that saw them come within two wins of the World Series title. As a result, baseball card collectors are excited to see what rookie cards and new additions to the team will be featured in 2022 sets. While reprints of stars like Jose Altuve, Carlos Correa, and Justin Verlander will still be highly sought after, here’s a closer look at some of the key Astros baseball cards to watch for in new releases this year.

Jeremy Peña (ROOKIE) – After Carlos Correa signed with the Twins in free agency, rookie shortstop Jeremy Peña will see his first major league cards issued in 2022 sets. As the expected everyday shortstop and potential heir apparent to Correa, Peña rookies could skyrocket in value with a strong debut campaign. Look for his autographs and memorabilia cards to be hot ticket items for Astros collectors this year.

Rafael Montero – One of the bestdeadline acquisitions of 2021, Montero stepped seamlessly into the Astros’ backend bullpen and had a 0.00 ERA after being traded from the Rangers. As a versatile arm who can close or setup, Montero is poised to be a key member of Houston’s pitching staff for years to come. Autographs or patch cards with his new Astros uniform could gain value as a quality bullpen arm.

Pete Incaviglia (REPRINT) – A fan favorite from the Astros’ golden era in the late 80s, “Inky” smashed 130 home runs for Houston from 1987-1992. While he’s been featured in Astros sets before, 2022 may include special retro reprints to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the 1987 NL West championship team. High-grade versions could attract value for NL West and Astros collectors.

Yordan Alvarez (BASE/AUTO VARIATIONS) – One of baseball’s most feared sluggers, Alvarez walloped 33 home runs in just 109 games last year. Look for Topps, Panini, and other brands to utilize more of Alvarez’s dominant 2021 season with base or parallel card variations showing his top stat lines. His autographs will remain a must-have for Astros PC builders as well.

Cristian Javier – Stepping into the rotation alongside Valdez and McCullers, Javier flashed an electric arsenal while going 5-3 with a 3.55 ERA as a starter in 2021. With continued development, the 25-year old Dominican could be a future ace. Base rookie cards in 2022 may eventually gain value with a breakout season.

Trey Mancini (NEWCOMER) – A fan favorite in Baltimore for years, Mancini was traded to Houston at the deadline and provides a powerful RH bat. As a proven veteran, Mancini cards in an Astros uniform for the first time will give collectors something new to chase, especially if he helps the team in the postseason.

Hunter Brown (ROOKIE) – The team’s 2nd round pick in 2019, Brown’s power arm rocketed him through the minors in 2021. The top pitching prospect could make his MLB debut and join the Astros’ rotation by mid-season. An MLB royalty card would be highly-coveted by Houston collectors.

Dusty Baker (MANAGER SPOTLIGHT) – Entering his 3rd year at the helm, the beloved skipper has the ‘Stros contending for titles again. Look for him to receive card tributes as the unifying force behind the team’s playoff runs the past two seasons in card sets recognizing iconic baseball figures.

While star veterans will remain the top Astros baseball card investments, keep an eye on the above young prospects and newcomers that could pay dividends with future on-field success. Collectors will surely be chasing the key rookies, parallels and memorabilia cards that depict this electric Houston team’s journey Back in H-Town in 2022.

BASEBALL CARDS ASTROS

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The Houston Astros have a rich history that is documented through baseball cards spanning over 50 years. From their beginnings as the Colt .45s in 1962 to their current run as consistent contenders in the American League, Astros cards provide a visual timeline of the franchise and some of its most notable stars.

One of the earliest cards featuring the Houston organization is the 1963 Topps #445 Jim Umbricht card. Umbricht was a relief pitcher for the inaugural 1962 Colt .45s and tragically died of cancer in 1963 at age 33, making his card one of the more historically significant early Astros releases. Other notable early Colt .45s cards included singles for pitcher Don Nottebart (1964 Topps #553), catcher John Bateman (1965 Topps #596), and outfielder Jimmy Wynn (1966 Topps #294), who would go on to become the franchise’s first true superstar known as “The Toy Cannon.”

The Astros made their first postseason appearance in 1980 led by stars like pitcher J.R. Richard, catcher Alan Ashby, and second baseman Joe Morgan. This success was commemorated in the 1981 Topps set with cards like Richard’s #144, Ashby’s #248, and Morgan’s #358. Tragically, Richard suffered a stroke in 1980 at age 30 that ended his career, with his 1981 card serving as a reminder of his dominant ability cut short. The Astros reached the 1981 NLCS but fell short of a World Series appearance.

In 1986, the Astros broke through to win their first NL West division title behind the pitching of Mike Scott, who won the NL Cy Young Award. Scott’s dominant season was honored with his nice 1986 Topps Traded #T49 card. Other 1986 Astros like second baseman Bill Doran (#92T), outfielder Billy Hatcher (#155T), and manager Hal Lanier (#212T) received Traded issue cards as well to recognize the team’s breakthrough championship season.

The 1990s saw the Astros consistently contend in the NL Central led by stars like first baseman Jeff Bagwell, pitcher Pete Harnisch, and outfielder Derek Bell. Bagwell’s rookie card from the 1991 Topps set is a particularly desirable release at #498. His dominance as arguably the franchise’s greatest player led to many popular cards over the rest of the decade in sets like 1992 Topps Gold #G52, 1993 Fleer Ultra #192, and 1995 Topps #571 Gold Stamp.

Into the 2000s, the Astros continued winning behind talents like pitchers Roger Clemens, Andy Pettitte, and Roy Oswalt. Clemens’ strong 2004 season where he won his 7th Cy Young spawned nice inserts like the 2004 Topps All-Time Fan Favorites Autographs #AFC-RC. Pettitte anchored the pitching staff for years and received recognizable cards like the 2001 Topps Traded Blue #TB-AP. Oswalt emerged as the ace and was honored in sets like the 2006 Upper Deck SP Legendary Cuts #LC-RO.

After relocating to the American League West in 2013, the Astros embarked on a long rebuilding process. Players like outfielder George Springer and pitchers Dallas Keuchel and Lance McCullers Jr. emerged as future stars during this time and received prominent rookie cards. Springer’s 2013 Bowman Chrome Draft Picks & Prospects Autograph #BDPP-GS stands out from this era.

The Astros’ fortunes changed dramatically from 2015-2017 as they rose from bottom-feeders to world champions behind homegrown talents like Springer, shortstop Carlos Correa, and pitchers Justin Verlander and Gerrit Cole. This golden era was heavily featured in cards like Correa’s 2014 Bowman Chrome Draft Picks & Prospects Autograph #BDPP-CC, Springer’s 2016 Topps Update #US265, and Cole’s 2018 Topps Update #US265. Verlander’s dominant postseason performance in 2017 netted him the ALCS MVP and recognition in inserts like 2017 Topps Now NLCS MVP #TN-JV.

Entering a new decade, the Astros look poised to remain contenders for years to come with a strong young core and front office. Their history of success and failure has been well-documented over the decades in the vast array of baseball cards featuring the franchise, chronicling the stars and stories that have defined the Houston Astros since 1962. Whether collecting the vintage greats or today’s budding talents, Astros cards provide a colorful window into the team’s rich half-century of ups and downs.

HOUSTON ASTROS BASEBALL CARDS 2017

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The 2017 Houston Astros baseball team made franchise history and their cards from that season have gained significant value in a short period of time. The Astros defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers in seven games to win their first ever World Series title. Led by stars such as Jose Altuve, Carlos Correa, George Springer, and Justin Verlander, the 2017 Astros burst onto the national scene and solidified themselves as a baseball powerhouse.

Their dominant playoff run led to skyrocketing interest in their baseball cards from that magical season. Rookie cards, stars of the game autographs, spectacular highlights, and team set cards all captured the excitement of that championship team. Card collectors nationwide wanted to own pieces of the history made by Houston’s first champions. Prices that seemed reasonable just months ago suddenly doubled, tripled, or more in many cases as demand surged.

Top RCs and Autographs
Carlos Correa had one of the hottest rookie cards that year with his Bowman Chrome refractor parallel fetching thousands in high grades. Correa exploded onto the scene in 2015 but his rookie season was in 2016 so collectors saw 2017 as a chance to get the budding superstar at an arguably better price before he won a ring. Correa’s stellar playoff performance where he was named ALCS MVP added tremendously to the cachet of his cards from that specific season.

George Springer also had highly sought after rookie cards from 2014 that jumped in value thanks to his offensive heroics for the ’17 champs. Springer hit five home runs in the World Series alone and seemed to come up with a timely hit every game. His rookie autos especially grew to four figure prices overnight.

But perhaps no player saw as much card value appreciation as Justin Verlander did after being acquired midseason and pitching the Astros to victory in Games 6 and 7 of the World Series. Verlander’s already valuable cards, particularly autographed relic parallels from past years with the Tigers, more than doubled in price amongst collectors now able to attach a World Series MVP credential to the future Hall of Famer’s resume.

Base RCs and Stars
While the biggest stars understandably received most of the attention, there was excitement for cards across the entire 2017 Astros roster as well. Rising talents like Alex Bregman, Lance McCullers Jr., and Brian McCann enjoyed nice bumps. Even role players who came up huge in the playoffs like Marwin Gonzalez gained new collectors.

Complete team sets from the 2017 season flew off shelves as fans wanted to own cards showing all the key contributors on baseball’s best team. The 2017 Topps flagship base cards of icons Jose Altuve and Dallas Keuchel entered a new demand stratosphere. Parallels and autographs became extremely hard to find of players who symbolized Houston’s first title.

Highlights, Patch Cards, and More
Exquisite patch cards and memorabilia items featuring swatches and pieces of the actual jerseys or bats used to win Game 7 captured history and demanded top dollar. Ultra-rare 1/1 printing plate autographs of Springer or Correa literally became collectors’ white whales.

Topps’ Finest and Bowman Chrome products included some of the most coveted parallels and negative autographs. Cards that immortalized iconic World Series moments like Springer’s go-ahead blast in Game 2 or Verlander’s celebrating embrace after the final out sold for thousands online.

While prices have stabilized some in recent years, the 2017 Astros remain one of the most beloved teams for collectors across Texas and beyond. Their cards allow fans both young and old to reminisce about the magic of Houston’s first title run. The stars of that championship club cemented legacies that will be commemorated for generations through their baseball cards.

HOUSTON ASTROS 2018 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2018 Houston Astros baseball cards commemorated the franchise’s first World Series championship. After reaching the Fall Classic in 2005 and losing to the Chicago White Sox, the Astros broke through in 2017, defeating the Los Angeles Dodgers in seven games to capture club’s first title. Top rookies like outfielder Derek Fisher and pitcher Francis Martes emerged, joining superstars Jose Altuve, Carlos Correa, George Springer and Justin Verlander on a dominant pitching staff and powerful lineup.

The most recognizable cards featured Astros’ biggest stars, starting with 2017 American League MVP and second baseman Jose Altuve. Altuve’s breakout season saw him hit .346 with 24 home runs and 81 RBI while leading the majors in hits. His dazzling play and inspirational leadership fueled Houston’s championship run. Altuve’s iconic 2018 Topps cards showcased his dynamic abilities and cement his status as the face of the franchise.

Young shortstop Carlos Correa also gained widespread attention during the Astros’ title defense. After missing half of the 2017 regular season due to injuries, Correa helped Houston win the pennant by batting .309 with 4 home runs in the ALCS and World Series combined. The 23-year-old’s burgeoning power and Gold Glove caliber defense in the heart of Houston’s lineup made him one of baseball’s rising stars. Correa’s 2018 card highlights captured his blossoming superstardom.

Towering right fielder George Springer turned in another All-Star campaign, batting .283 with 34 home runs and 85 runs batted in. Springer’s athleticism, elite power, and dominant playoff performances in 2017 cemented his place as a cornerstone of Houston’s core. His memorable postseason heroics, including a Game 2 home run in the World Series, made Springer one of the most exhilarating Astros to watch. His 2018 cards celebrated another breakout season.

Veteran ace Justin Verlander also joined Houston via a late summer trade and immediately transformed their rotation. The former Detroit Tigers star went 5-0 with a 1.06 ERA after being dealt, then won two games in the World Series including a complete game victory in Game 2. Verlander’s veteran leadership and overpowering stuff gave Houston a true ace for October. His 2018 cards with the Astros highlighted a new chapter after years in Detroit.

Rookies like outfielder Derek Fisher and flamethrower Francis Martes also received flashy commons and inserts in their debut seasons. Martes missed all of 2018 due to injury but impressed in 2017 before undergoing Tommy John surgery. As young power arms, Martes and fellow rookie Brad Peacock provided promise for Houston’s future rotation. Fisher made his MLB debut in September 2017 and looked poised for an impact role in 2018 before injuries limited him to 69 games.

Veteran starters like Lance McCullers Jr., Dallas Keuchel, Charlie Morton and Collin McHugh anchored a formidable starting five. Dynamic rookie relievers Chris Devenski and Joe Smith emerged as lights-out bullpen options alongside veterans Ken Giles and Luke Gregerson. Backup catcher Brian McCann and versatile infielder Marwin Gonzalez proved indispensable both offensively and defensively. The depth and talent throughout Houston’s 40-man roster led to championship success.

Parallels, retro variations, autographs and memorabilia cards of stars like Altuve, Correa, Springer and Verlander highlighted insert sets. Rare 1/1 printing plates and red parallel autos fetched top dollar as collectors chased the reigning champs. Extended sets from Upper Deck, Topps, Bowman and Leaf captured breakout players as well as depth roster guys who contributed. International licenses from Panini added to the excitement around Houston’s first title team.

Whether celebrating franchise cornerstones, breakout rookies or role players, the 2018 Houston Astros baseball cards paid tribute to a championship roster that brought Houston its first World Series trophy. Memorable inserts, parallels and autographs enshrined the stars and depth that lifted the Astros to elite status among baseball’s best. With a talented young core and proven playoff pedigree, the future remains bright as Houston aims to repeat its 2017 championship run.

HOUSTON ASTROS BASEBALL CARDS

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The Houston Astros franchise has a rich history that baseball card collectors can chronicle through the years. The team was established as the Colt .45s in 1962 as an expansion franchise and issued their first baseball cards that same year. Those early Colt .45s cards featured players like Manager Harry Craft, Outfielder Jim Pendleton and Pitcher Don Nottebart. The designs on those 1962 Topps cards were basic, as was common for expansion teams in those early years.

In 1965, the team changed its name to the Astros to reflect the city’s contribution to the U.S. space program. Their 1965 Topps baseball cards were the first to feature the Astros logo and name. Top players featured included 3B/OF Jimmy Wynn, P Denny Lemaster and rookie sensation Joe Morgan. Topps and other card companies in the 1960s like Fleer captured the Astros’ early years in Houston before they became a competitive team. Rosters turned over frequently as the team sought to build a contender.

It wasn’t until the late 1960s and early 1970s that the Astros started to field competitive teams. Their 1969 squad that lost to the Miracle Mets in the NLCS featured several future Hall of Famers like OF/1B Jimmy Wynn, P Don Wilson, C/1B Bob Aspromonte and Manager Harry Walker. Their 1969 Topps cards reflected the team’s rise, featuring sharp action shots and team-color borders. Rated rookies from that era like OF/1B Lee May and P J.R. Richard had enduring careers documented in their early baseball cards.

The 1971-1975 Astros teams are considered among the best to never win a World Series. Led by stars like C/1B Larry Dierker, OF/1B Jimmy Wynn, P Don Wilson, 2B/SS Denis Menke and rated rookies like P/DH Ken Forsch, those squads consistently won 90+ games but fell short in the playoffs. Their colorful Topps and Kellogg’s 3D baseball cards from that time are prized by collectors today for capturing the intensity of “The Killer B’s” era Astros teams.

After a dropoff in the late 1970s, the Astros reemerged as contenders in the 1980s. Future Hall of Fame 3B Phil Garner and P Nolan Ryan led the 1979 squad to an NLCS appearance. Ryan’s rare 1979 Topps Traded card showing him with the Angels and Astros is one of the most iconic in the hobby. Rising stars like OF/1B Glenn Davis and P Mike Scott burst onto the scene in the 1980s. Scott’s dominant 1988 season where he won the Cy Young Award playing for Manager Hal Lanier’s division-winning club is legendary.

The Astros broke through in 2005 to win their first World Series behind ace pitchers Roger Clemens, Andy Pettitte and coach/ later manager Phil Garner. Stars from that championship squad like OF/1B Lance Berkman, 2B Craig Biggio, SS Adam Everett and rookie sensations P Brad Lidge and OF/1B Morgan Ensberg had memorable rookie and star rookie cards from that era. Biggio’s longevity playing his entire 20-year career with the Astros made him one of the most documented players in team history via annual card issues.

In the 2010s, the Astros emerged as a consistent powerhouse. Behind stars like 2017 World Series MVP and AL MVP George Springer, pitchers Dallas Keuchel, Charlie Morton and Justin Verlander, and manager A.J. Hinch, the Astros reached new heights, winning 101 games in 2019 and capturing their second championship. Top prospects like SS/3B Alex Bregman bursting onto the scene added to the excitement for Astros card collectors. The scandal surrounding the team’s illegal sign-stealing methods that came to light in late 2019/2020 tainted their accomplishments but did not diminish the historical cards issued of those talented rosters.

Entering the 2020s, the Astros look to add more chapters to their history, hopefully with the talented young core of Yordan Alvarez, Kyle Tucker, Cristian Javier and Jose Urquidy. For over 50 years of cards since those original 1962 issues, collectors can track the evolution of the Houston Astros franchise through the faces and stats captured in annual baseball card sets. Few other teams have such a well documented rich history within the hobby from their emergence as an expansion club to consistent contender status.

BEST ASTROS BASEBALL CARDS

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The Houston Astros have a long and storied history dating back to 1962 when they entered Major League Baseball as an expansion franchise known as the Colt .45s. Over the past 60+ years, the Astros have featured some of the greatest players in baseball history and produced many valuable and sought-after baseball cards. For collectors looking to build the ultimate Astros collection, here are some of the best and most important Astros baseball cards to seek out.

1962 Topps Jim Umbricht (#110) – The very first Astros card features pitcher Jim Umbricht, who only played one season for the Colt .45s but remains a historic piece of franchise history as the No. 1 card. Highly coveted by collectors, graded PSA 10 examples can fetch thousands.

1965 Topps Joe Morgan (#143) – Joe Morgan spent the first several seasons of his Hall of Fame career with the Astros and is undoubtedly their greatest player from the 1960s. His 1965 rookie card remains one of the most important from that decade for Houston.

1969 Topps Larry Dierker (#550) – Larry Dierker is beloved in Houston for his playing career and later managing the Astros. His rookie card from 1969, which shows him pitching for the Astros, is a must-have for any serious collector.

1971 Topps Billy Smith (#537) – An extremely rare and valuable card, Billy Smith’s only season was with the Astros in 1971. High-grade versions can sell for well over $10,000 due to the card’s scarcity.

1975 Topps Joe Niekro (#512) – Joe Niekro won over 200 games and had a long, successful career but his time with the Astros in the 1970s make this rookie card particularly important in any Astros PC.

1980 Topps Nolan Ryan (#138) – Nolan Ryan is known more for the Angels and Rangers but he spent 1979-1980 in Houston and dominated during that time. His card from his final Astros season is a true key piece.

1981 Donruss Craig Biggio (#381) – Biggio made his MLB debut in 1988 but fans can get an early look at the franchise icon with this stellar 1981 Donruss rookie card featuring a young Biggio.

1986 Donruss Mike Scott (#430) – Mike Scott’s dominant 1986 NL Cy Young season has gone down as arguably the greatest single season in Astros history. His ’86 Donruss card perfectly captures that amazing year.

1991 Upper Deck Jeff Bagwell (#1) – The crown jewel of any Astros collection, Jeff Bagwell’s legendary 1991 Upper Deck rookie card in a PSA 10 grade recently sold for over $300,000, a true record for an Astros card.

1995 Upper Deck Derek Bell (#640) – As one of the key pieces of the Killer B’s outfield, Derek Bell shined in the mid-90s for Houston. His stellar 1995 UD card is a must-have for that era.

2004 Topps Roger Clemens (#249) – Despite pitching just one season in Houston late in his career, Roger Clemens made an huge impact for the ’04 Astros. His card is a nice piece of their playoff run.

2005 Topps Roy Oswalt (#341) – Roy Oswalt spent over a decade anchoring Houston’s rotation and won 20+ games twice for them. His 2005 Topps card is the perfect representation of the ace.

2007 Topps Lance Berkman (#234) – Big Puma provided many highlight moments during his stellar Astros tenure. Collectors should seek out his 2007 Topps card showing him in his Houston uniform.

2017 Topps Carlos Correa (#212) – As a cornerstone of the franchise moving forward, Carlos Correa’s rookie card from his breakout 2017 season is sure to become a highly valuable Astros card in the years to come.

There are certainly many other notable and valuable Astros baseball cards that could be included in a discussion of the franchise’s best, but this list of 18 cards spanning their history in Houston provides a solid foundation for any collector looking to assemble the core of a stellar Astros collection. With such a long tradition of excellence both on the field and in the hobby, Astros cards will remain a popular focus for collectors for generations to come.

ASTROS BASEBALL CARDS

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The Houston Astros have a long and storied history that can be traced through their collection of baseball cards produced over the decades. From the team’s inception in 1962 as the Colt .45s up until the present day, card manufacturers like Topps, Fleer, and Donruss have commemorated Astros players on the classic cardboard collectibles that baseball fans of all ages love to assemble, trade, and admire. Let’s take a look at some of the most notable Astros cards and sets from throughout the franchise’s history.

One of the earliest Astros cards comes from the 1963 Topps set, which was only the team’s second season after switching from the Colt .45s moniker. Standouts from that inaugural Astros issue include singles of players like Joe Morgan, Don Nottebart, and Bob Aspromonte. The designs were basic for the era but captured the excitement of Houston’s new National League franchise. In the late 1960s, the likes of Jimmy Wynn, Joe Morgan, and Larry Dierker began to appear more prominently in the annual Topps issues as the Astros developed their roster.

The early 1970s brought about some of the most visually appealing Astros card designs. The 1971 Topps set featured innovative action shots and an orange-centered color scheme that invoked the team’s uniform hues. Cards of Astros stars like Doug Rader, Cesar Cedeno, and Don Wilson really popped from the designs. High numbers of the era also went to Astros, with Dierker claiming the #500 card in 1973 Topps among others. The late 1970s saw the rise of the “Big Red Machine” Cincinnati Reds dynasty, but Astros like J.R. Richard, Joe Niekro, and Ken Forsch still earned prominent card placements in the annual issues.

The 1980s was a strong decade for Astros cards thanks to the team’s resurgence and World Series appearances. Topps and other manufacturers heavily featured stars of the era like Nolan Ryan, Mike Scott, Glenn Davis, Kevin Bass, and Craig Biggio. Ryan’s last Astros card in 1987 was one of his most iconic due to his then-record 325 career wins. Scott’s dominating performance in the 1986 NLCS where he no-hit the Dodgers was also well-documented on his ’87 issue. Upper deck rookies of Jeff Bagwell and Derek Bell in 1989 hinted at more success to come.

The 1990s saw the Astros emerge as a perennial contender, and cards reflected this. Jeff Bagwell quickly became one of the most prominently featured players in baseball during this period. His 1991 rookie card is a highly sought after piece for collectors. Other Astros like Ken Caminiti, Billy Wagner, and Shane Reynolds earned career-defining cards in the 1990s as well. Sets like 1993 Upper Deck and 1997 Collector’s Choice also featured innovative parallel and insert sets focusing on Astros stars. When Houston reached the World Series in 2005, manufacturers released sets entirely dedicated to commemorating the achievement.

In more modern times, the Astros franchise has seen continued success as well as controversy, both of which have been documented on their cards. Stars of the 2010s like Jose Altuve, George Springer, and Justin Verlander have earned acclaimed rookie cards and updates. The infamous “Trash Can Bang” sign-stealing scandal of 2017 has also inspired meme cards and parodies skewering the team. Today, the Astros remain one of baseball’s most consistent winners and their cards provide an enduring collectible connection to fans both young and old. Whether revisiting the glory days of the past or watching today’s stars emerge, Astros cards offer a detailed visual history of the franchise for enthusiasts to enjoy.

In summary, Astros baseball cards span all the way from the earliest days of the Colt .45s to the present-day champions. Iconic players from every era have been immortalized on the classic cardboard collectibles. The cards not only commemorate individual player accomplishments, but also track the ups and downs and transformations of the franchise over six decades. For Astros devotees, assembling a complete collection of cards serves as an engaging retrospective of the team’s rich history. The enduring popularity of baseball cards ensures the Astros legacy on this mediums will continue well into the future as well.

HOUSTON ASTROS WORLD SERIES BASEBALL CARDS

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The Houston Astros 2017 World Series championship run produced a wave of commemorative baseball cards celebrating the achievement. For Astros fans, collecting these 2017 World Series cards serves as a way to memorialize and relive the exciting moments from that improbable playoff run.

The Astros defied expectations in 2017 after years of losing to capture their first-ever World Series title. As an underdog fifth seed in the American League, Houston defeated the Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, and Los Angeles Dodgers to hoist the Commissioner’s Trophy. Their victory was especially sweet for long-suffering Houston fans after the devastation wrought by Hurricane Harvey earlier that season.

Topps released several subsets to commemorate the Astros’ 2017 championship. Their “World Series Highlights” cards feature iconic photos from key moments throughout the playoffs and Fall Classic. One card shows Jose Altuve celebrating after hitting a walk-off home run to clinch the pennant against the Yankees. Another captures Justin Verlander screaming in jubilation after the final out to win the World Series is recorded.

Topps also issued “World Series Champions” base cards of every player on Houston’s WS roster. These include stars like Altuve, Carlos Correa, and George Springer as well as lesser-known role players who contributed to the title run such as Evan Gattis, Chris Devenski, and Ken Giles. Parallel “Gold Foil” versions of these cards were inserted much less frequently into packs, giving collectors an ultra-rare parallel to seek.

In addition, Topps crafted “World Series MVP” cards to honor Astros pitcher Justin Verlander, who took home hardware after dominating the Dodgers with a pair of wins in the Fall Classic. The standard and also much harder to find “Gold” parallel capture Verlander in his moment of glory accepting the award at the conclusion of the series.

Panini also got in on commemorating Houston’s championship. Their “Momentous Moments” inserts feature pivotal playoff actions. One depicts Altuve tagging up and scoring the go-ahead run against LA in Game 2 on a fly ball to shallow left. Another frozen moment is of Correa gleefully celebrating after hitting a home run off Clayton Kershaw in that decisive Game 5 victory.

Donruss issued a special “Champions” parallel too. In addition to standard base cards, collectors could find pink foil and even rarer Astro-colored versions celebrating the team and players. Donruss also crafted parallels of their “Postseason Performers” inserts highlighting standouts like Dallas Keuchel and Verlander in the playoffs

Among the rarer chase cards were Topps’ 1-of-1 printing plate autographs featuring pieces of the plate used to print that player’s base card. Just one of each of these ultra-valuable signed plates exists. Bowman also contributed to the 2017 Astros commemorative market with prospects like Forrest Whitley signed autographs and parallels of their regular rookies and prospects.

For diehard Astros collectors, the true crown jewel was Topps’ 2017 World Series “Superfractor” parallel card. Reserved for the 2017 Champions subset, it depicts Springer celebrating on the field in extra shiny refractor style numbering only 1 copy in existence. This 1/1 super-short printed card fetched over $10,000 at auction, making it one of the most valuable modern baseball cards ever created.

Whether it’s reliving key moments, commemorating players, or seeking out the rarest parallel inserts and autographs, Astros fans continue adding to their collections of 2017 World Series cards years after the fact. The championship run and dramatic playoff victories capture the energy, excitement and achievement of that unforgettable season in Houston. For those who experienced it firsthand or supporters who’ve since jumped on the bandwagon, collecting these commemorative cards serves as a way to preserve the memory and experience of the Astros’ first title for years to come.