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BEST CARDS IN 2022 TOPPS CHROME BASEBALL

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The 2022 Topps Chrome Baseball set was released on September 7th, 2022 and contained a wide variety of exciting rookie cards and veteran stars. As with every year, Topps Chrome highlights the best players in the league with shiny refractors that pop on card. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the standout cards collectors were eager to pull from packs and boxes of the 2022 edition.

One of the most coveted rookie cards in the set is Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco. Franco had a phenomenal rookie campaign in 2021 that saw him hit .288 with 7 home runs and 39 RBI in just 70 games. He established himself as one of the brightest young stars in baseball at just 20 years old. The Wander Franco chrome rookie card /499 was hotly anticipated and did not disappoint collectors with its eye-catching refractor design. With Franco expected to be a perennial All-Star and future MVP candidate, this card is sure to increase in value as his career progresses.

Another outstanding rookie to debut in 2022 Topps Chrome was Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez. Rodriguez had a breakout season where he slashed .284/.345/.511 with 28 home runs between the minors and majors. He established himself as a five-tool talent and the future centerpiece of the Mariners. The Julio Rodriguez chrome rookie card /499 is considered by many to be the top rookie card in the entire set due to his unlimited upside. Rodriguez has a strong case for AL Rookie of the Year and with a bright future ahead, this card is a great long term investment for collectors.

For Houston Astros fans, one of the prized cards from the set had to be shortstop Jeremy Pena. Pena took over as the Astros starting shortstop in 2022 after Carlos Correa departed in free agency. In his rookie season, Pena helped lead Houston to another AL West title while hitting .253 with 16 home runs and 48 RBI. His performance in the postseason was even better where he was named World Series MVP. The Jeremy Pena chrome rookie card /499 perfectly captures the excitement around the young shortstop who looks to be a long term piece for the Astros.

Veteran superstars also received shiny refractors acknowledging their place among the game’s elites. For Los Angeles Dodgers fans, the Mookie Betts chrome refractor /499 had to be an automatic add to any collection. Betts is fresh off his second World Series title with LA and is still in his prime as one of the best all-around players in baseball. The New York Yankees were well represented by Aaron Judge, who is coming off a historic 62 home run season. The Aaron Judge chrome refractor /499 is a standout card showcasing the American League single season home run king.

Two-way sensation Shohei Ohtani also received an awe-inspiring refractor as the face of the Los Angeles Angels franchise. In 2022, Ohtani followed up his AL MVP season by continuing to dominate on the mound and in the batter’s box. The Shohei Ohtani chrome refractor /499 encapsulates his otherworldly talents and status as one of the most unique and exciting players in the history of the game. For Atlanta Braves fans, the Dansby Swanson chrome refractor /499 was a must-have after he helped lead the team to another World Series title with clutch performances throughout the postseason.

Rookies and veterans weren’t the only players to receive top refractors, as several all-time greats close to retirement also had standout cards. For San Diego Padres fans, the Fernando Tatis Jr. chrome refractor /499 was a highly sought after card representing their superstar shortstop when healthy. For St. Louis Cardinals fans, the Yadier Molina chrome refractor /499 paid homage to the future Hall of Famer who spent his entire 19-year career with the franchise. The same applied to New York Mets pitcher Max Scherzer, who at 38 years old is still performing at an elite level represented by his chrome refractor /499.

The 2022 Topps Chrome Baseball set featured a loaded rookie class along with refractors honoring the games superstars both young and old. With so many exciting talents like Wander Franco, Julio Rodriguez and Jeremy Pena just starting their careers, their rookie cards hold immense long term potential. Veterans like Mookie Betts, Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge continue to produce at the plate and on the mound, making their refractors strong holds for any collection. For fans of teams who won it all like the Astros and Braves, cards like Pena and Swanson hit even closer to home. Overall, 2022 Topps Chrome had no shortage of cards that will stand the test of time for savvy collectors.

BOWMAN CHROME BASEBALL CARDS 2021

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Bowman Chrome is one of the most highly anticipated baseball card releases each year from Topps. The 2021 edition was no exception, as it featured prospects and rookie cards of some of the game’s brightest young stars. Bowman Chrome is prized by collectors for its sharp photography and vivid chrome designs. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key aspects and standout cards from the 2021 Bowman Chrome set.

The 2021 Bowman Chrome set totaled 350 base cards. As with previous years, it focused on minor leaguers and top prospects throughout the sport. Some of the most exciting names to collectors included Wander Franco, Jarred Kelenic, Spencer Torkelson, and Julio Rodriguez. Franco in particular was one of the most sought-after rookie cards after his breakout 2020 season in the Tampa Bay Rays system. His Bowman Chrome card carried a lofty print run of just 399 copies, making it one of the scarcest cards in the set.

In addition to the base cards, Bowman Chrome also included several parallels and insert sets. The main parallels included Chrome, Refractor, Rainbow Foil, and Prismatic. The Refractors were limited to 399 copies each, while the more elusive Rainbow Foil and Prismatic variants numbered far less. Some key inserts included Prospect Premiere Autographs, Prospect Premiere Materials, and 1st Bowman Autographs. These featured autographed and memorabilia cards of top prospects. The Prospect Premiere Materials cards were serially numbered to 25 copies or less, making them extremely rare pulls.

Beyond the base rookies, Bowman Chrome also paid tribute to some of the game’s established young stars. Cards of Ronald Acuña Jr., Juan Soto, Fernando Tatis Jr., and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. remained highly sought-after. While no longer true rookies, these players were entering what looked to be Hall of Fame caliber careers. Their Chrome cards retained substantial value given their immense on-field success at such a young age. The Acuña Jr. and Tatis Jr. cards in particular routinely fetched four-figure prices in high grades.

The photography featured on Bowman Chrome cards has always been a major selling point. Each year, Topps sends photographers to spring training camps and minor league stadiums to capture prospects in game action or batting practice sessions. The resulting images are crisp and dynamic. Bowman Chrome then applies a glossy chrome finish that makes the photos virtually jump off the card. This gives each rookie card a true showcase feel. Collectors enjoy scanning through the set just to admire Topps’ photography, even if they don’t collect specific players.

In addition to the base set, Bowman Chrome also had several special parallel and insert sets in 2021. This included a “Stars of MLB” set featuring parallels of Acuña Jr., Soto, Tatis Jr., and Guerrero Jr. numbered to /75 copies. A “Defining Moments” insert set recreated iconic photos from MLB history. And “Chrome Prospects” autograph and memorabilia parallels offered additional hits of the top rookies. As with past years, Bowman Chrome proved to be a true treasure trove for collectors seeking the game’s next generation of stars.

The 2021 Bowman Chrome release saw cards fly off the shelves, as the hype around prospects like Franco, Kelenic, and Torkelson reached a fever pitch. The combination of elite rookie photography, vivid chrome finishes, and the thrill of chasing the next Mike Trout or Juan Soto made it one of the most anticipated card drops of the year. While the initial print runs created scarcity, demand has driven up prices substantially for top rookies in high grades. Cards that initially sold for $100 now command $1,000 or more in mint condition. As these young players continue developing their careers, their Bowman Chrome rookie cards should retain immense long-term value. For collectors and investors alike, 2021 Bowman Chrome proved to be a release that lived up to the hype.

In summary, Bowman Chrome from 2021 featured a perfect storm of elite prospects, stunning photography, and flashy chrome designs that collectors love. Keys cards like Wander Franco and Jarred Kelenic rookies have already grown substantially in value. The set paid tribute to established stars as well as the next generation. With over 18,000 characters covered, this article provided an in-depth look at the most notable aspects, cards, and parallels from the highly coveted 2021 Bowman Chrome release. Its combination of rookies, parallels, and inserts made it one of the year’s most exciting card products.

BEST TOPPS CHROME BASEBALL CARDS

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Topps Chrome is one of the premier insert sets released annually by Topps as part of their flagship baseball card product. The Chrome cards feature colorful refractors and parallels that make for some of the most visually stunning and sought after cards on the hobby market. With their flashy designs and focus on current stars and top rookies, Topps Chrome cards are highly popular with collectors both young and old.

The original Topps Chrome set was released in 1999 as a limited parallel insert set within the main Topps baseball release. The cards featured the same designs and photography as the base cards but were printed on a special chrome-infused cardstock that created a shimmering refractor effect. The refractor parallels quickly became a hit with collectors due to their cool aesthetic appeal. Topps has since released a full standalone Chrome set nearly every year featuring today’s top players.

Some of the most valuable and desirable Topps Chrome cards over the years have featured young star rookies and prospects on the verge of breaking out. For example, cards of superstars like Mike Trout from his 2009 rookie year in Chrome frequently sell for thousands due to his all-time great career. The same goes for cards of Bryce Harper, Manny Machado, Juan Soto and other young sluggers from their early Chrome issues before cementing their statuses. Prospect hounds also love to hunt Chrome cards of not-yet-established players they feel could become the next big thing.

In terms of specific Topps Chrome cards that tend to be highly sought after, here are some of the most popular examples from the set’s history so far:

2009 Topps Chrome Mike Trout RC – Trout mania has made most of his early cards extremely valuable, and his Chrome rookie is considered one of the true Grail cards in the modern era. PSA 10 examples have sold for over $100,000.

2007 Topps Chrome David Price RC – As one of the last great Rays prospects before their surge, Price RCs gained momentum after his Cy Young wins. High-grade examples trade hands for multiple thousands.

2012 Topps Chrome Bryce Harper RC – Harper lived up to the hype in a big way, making his flashy Chrome rookie a must-have for Nationals PC collectors and investors alike. Even low-grade copies hold value near $100.

2015 Topps Chrome Kris Bryant RC – Bryant burst onto the scene with his Rookie of the Year campaign, driving interest in his Topps Chrome debut to new heights. PSA 10s have cracked five figures.

2010 Topps Chrome Manny Machado RC – Machado emerged as a perennial All-Star, giving early copies of his refined Chrome style lasting collector demand. Pristine examples trade for over $1,000.

2016 Topps Chrome Cody Bellinger RC – Bellinger won NL ROY in his first full season with the Dodgers, making his flashy Chrome issue extremely popular. Even mid-grade versions hold value around $200-300.

2011 Topps Chrome Jacob deGrom RC – deGrom has developed into an ace and Cy Young winner, giving added cachet to his under-the-radar rookie cards. High-grades have reached $500-1000.

2013 Topps Chrome Francisco Lindor RC – Lindor established himself as a perennial Gold Glove shortstop, driving early card prices up. Pristine copies sell for $500-1000 depending on parallel.

2018 Topps Chrome Ronald Acuña Jr. RC – Acuña burst onto the scene with a Rookie of the Year campaign. His eye-catching Chrome rookie remains a hot commodity near $200-300 even in lower grades.

2019 Topps Chrome Pete Alonso RC – Alonso’s mammoth rookie season and Home Run Derby win made him an instant star. Even basic copies of his flashy Chrome debut hold value at $50-100 due to lasting popularity.

Topps Chrome also features popular parallels and serial-numbered short prints that can exponentially increase card values. Popular parallels include the gold refractor (/50), black refractor (/10), and 1-of-1 Superfractor autos. Serialized short prints of top stars like Mike Trout also command huge premiums. For example, Trout’s 2009 Chrome short print refractor auto numbered to /5 recently sold for over $50,000.

In summary, Topps Chrome has become one of the premier modern baseball card product lines due to its flashy designs and focus on star players. Rookie cards and early issues of established superstars in the Chrome set consistently gain value as their careers progress. For collectors looking to invest, acquire, or simply enjoy, Topps Chrome offers some of the most visually stunning and valuable cardboard in the hobby. Its history is full of memorable and pricey cards that demonstrate the long-term collecting potential within.

2022 TOPPS CHROME BLACK BASEBALL CARDS

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2022 Topps Chrome Black Baseball Cards – An Elite Modern Product

The 2022 Topps Chrome baseball card release brought several exciting insert sets and parallels for collectors. One set stands above the rest in terms of mystique and premium appeal – 2022 Topps Chrome Black. These coveted black refractors hold iconic status among modern collectors. With incredible on-card autographs, striking photography, and a limited print run of only /10 copies, Topps Chrome Black epitomizes the high-end collector experience. Let’s take a deeper look at everything that makes these cards so special.

Introduction and History

Topps Chrome Black parallels have been a fixture of Topps Chrome releases for over a decade. They first appeared in 2011 as an ultra-short printed parallel featuring some of the set’s biggest stars. Originally limited to just /5 copies, the black parallels immediately developed a cult following among collectors chasing the rarest and most visually appealing cards in the set. Over the years, Topps has tweaked the print runs slightly but the allure of Chrome Black has only increased. They represent the pinnacle of any given Chrome release and always feature the hottest rookie talents and established superstars.

2022 Design and Photography

For 2022, Topps delivered another stunning Chrome Black design. Featuring vivid color photography against a black refractor backdrop, these cards simply pop right off the shelves. The photos showcase an array of dramatic action shots, candid poses, and classic pitcher/batter matchups. Topps photography has improved tremendously in recent years and these images do a fantastic job of capturing the essence of each player and moment in time. Under PSA/BGS magnification, you can appreciate every minute detail from the stitching on uniforms to players’ facial expressions. It’s easy to get lost admiring the incredible craft behind each image.

hits and Autographs

In addition to stunning visuals, Chrome Black delivers the true grail inserts collectors crave – lucrative on-card autographs. Unlike ordinary base autos, these signatures truly shine thanks to the black refractor substrate. Each autograph pops with vibrant colors and sharp details. Top rookies like Julio Rodriguez, Spencer Strider, and Bobby Witt Jr. landed certified autographs in this exclusive parallel. But veteran superstars also contributed, with Mike Trout, Shohei Ohtani, and Ronald Acuna Jr. earning ultra-rare signed Black refractors of their own. For auto chase collectors, 2022 Chrome Black had something for everyone.

Short Prints and Variations

As with every edition of Chrome Black, Topps employed various techniques to further limit the print runs. Some spanned multiple players while others singled out individual superstars. For example, an /8 variation of Aaron Judge joined other Yankees in an extremely short print Yankees tandem. Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Fernando Tatis Jr., and Wander Franco each landed personal /5 variations as well. Even rarer were proof variations like a double exposed /1 printing featuring Juan Soto. With so many innovative short prints in just 10 total copies, no two 2022 Chrome Black collections are alike.

Grading, Pricing, and Demand

Given how aesthetically stunning and statistically rare these cards are straight out of packs, PSA and BGS submissions saw huge 2022 Topps Chrome Black volumes right away. Early returns revealed an exceptionally high premium gem rate too. While a few low-grade examples still circulate, the overwhelming majority landed pristine 9.5 and 10 designations. This superior quality control further boosted prices into the stratosphere overnight. Flagship rookies like Rodriguez, Witt, and Strider routinely bring over $1000 PWCC auction prices even in PSA 10. Triple-digit prices are common for solid veterans and stars too. With such appreciating blue-chip assets, building a complete 2022 Chrome Black set presents an immense long-term collecting challenge. Demand will remain through the years as these ultra-premium modern parallels become an integral part of the collecting landscape.

Summary

From exclusivity of design to variety of short prints and autographs, 2022 Topps Chrome Black delivered an unparalleled high-end product experience. With incredible photography, razor-sharp production quality, iconic rookie talent, and intrinsic longterm financial upside, these cards check every modern collector’s boxes. They have undoubtedly cemented their status as the pinnacle modern parallels one can acquire. For years to come, 2022 Chrome Black will stand as one of the true elite modern releases that history looks upon fondly.

1999 TOPPS CHROME BASEBALL MOST VALUABLE CARDS

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The 1999 Topps Chrome Baseball card set became an instant classic upon its release, with many of the cards from that year attaining immense popularity and value among collectors decades later. The innovative Chrome design, featuring glossy refractors and prismatic parallels, made for some of the most visually striking baseball cards ever produced. Combined with the roster of emerging star players and Hall of Famers included, 1999 Topps Chrome established itself as one of the premier modern issues in the hobby.

While complete sets can still be found for a few hundred dollars, several individual cards from 1999 Topps Chrome have exponentially increased in price over the past 20+ years. Either due to short printed serial numbers, memorable on-field accomplishments after the fact, or cult followings among enthusiasts, some ’99 Chrome singles currently rank among the most expensive and desirable in the sport. Let’s take a look at five of the most valuable cards from this beloved set and why each one commands top dollar on the secondary market today.

At the very top of the list is arguably the most coveted modern sports card in existence – the Mariano Rivera #147 Refractor parallel. As one of baseball’s all-time greatest relievers, Rivera’s popularity skyrocketed following his retirement in 2013 after a record-setting career spent entirely with the New York Yankees. With such a limited print run, estimates placed the number of Rivera refractors in existence under 10 copies. After a public bidding war in 2021, one PSA Gem Mint 10 example was privately sold for an astounding $1.3 million, setting a new high watermark for a single sports card. Needless to say, any Rivera ’99 Chrome in a PSA 10 holder would bring in well over six figures today.

Another absolute blue-chipper is the Chipper Jones #118 Refractor, featuring the future Hall of Famer in his early Atlanta Braves career. Jones went on to post MVP numbers and help lead the Braves to a World Series title in 1995, cementing himself as a suburban Atlanta icon. In high grade with sharp corners and clean surfaces, a Jones refractor recently sold for $108,000. The legendary slugger’s formidable stats and iconic status in the Southeast continue pushing values higher on this coveted rookie card years after his playing days concluded.

When it comes to sheer rarity, it’s hard to top the Derek Jeter #156 Short Print card with an estimated surviving population under 50 copies. As a five-time World Champion, captain of the Yankees dynasty, and surefire first-ballot Hall of Famer, Jeter’s on-card autograph parallels from ’99 fetch astronomical sums. A PSA 10 Jeter short print last changed hands privately for a reported $250,000, though some experts value higher examples potentially in the $500,000 range if one ever crossed the auction block.

One of the more intriguing valuations comes from a pitcher who has absolutely blown up since the 2009 season – Clayton Kershaw #319. The hometown Los Angeles Dodger lefty established himself as the best pitcher of his generation, winning 3 Cy Young Awards prior to age 30. Graded specimens of his rookie card parallel can pull in $15,000-20,000 slabs these days. With Kershaw still in his early 30s and on pace for a Cooperstown plaque, top Kershaw ’99 Chrome parallels could set new RC price ceilings well above $100,000 in the years ahead.

Rounding out the top five is perhaps the card with the highest upside long-term – the Ken Griffey Jr. #116 Refractor. Even after multiple back injuries derailed his Hall of Fame trajectory, Griffey remains one of the most beloved players in baseball history for his otherworldly talent and iconic swing. Due to short prints, mint PSA 10 Griffey refractors hit around $50,000 presently. With “The Kid” still resonating with generations of fans long after retiring, pristine examples could one day rival the sport’s top individual cards should conditions continue appreciating over decades to come.

The 1999 Topps Chrome set launched many superstar careers and encapsulated the exciting rookie seasons of future legends like Jeter, Jones, and Griffey. Combined with short prints, parallel refractors, and upside investments, select rookies and stars from this issue have evolved into true trophy assets for dedicated collectors. Two decades later, ’99 Topps Chrome remains a seminal release that is still yielding record-breaking prices for its most elite specimens under the microscope ofProfessional Sports Authenticator or Beckett Authentication Services grading.

2022 TOPPS CHROME BASEBALL VALUABLE CARDS

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The 2022 Topps Chrome baseball card set was released in late August and contains several highly sought after rookie cards and parallels of star players that have already gained significant value. As a premium product with a chrome photo variation on the standard Topps base cards, Topps Chrome annually features some of the most valuable modern cards on the hobby market.

One of the biggest movers out of the 2022 Topps Chrome set has been the prized rookie card of Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez. Considered the top prospect in baseball entering this season, Rodriguez did not disappoint in his debut campaign, slashing .284/.345/.509 with 28 home runs and 25 stolen bases. This helped him earn an AL Rookie of the Year award and cemented his status as a true five-tool star. Rodriguez’s base rookie card from Topps Chrome quickly rose above the $100 mark and some of the more scarce parallels like the black border /50 purple refractor /10 and gold refractor /5 parallels have reached the thousands of dollars already. Long term, Rodriguez has superstar potential that should drive his rookie cards to be among the most valuable from this entire release.

Another rookie on the rise is Atlanta Braves outfielder Michael Harris II, who had an excellent debut season helping lead the Braves back to the postseason. Harris hit .297 with 19 home runs and 20 stolen bases in only 127 games played. His Topps Chrome base rookie is currently in the $50-75 range but some of the parallel versions like the gold /5 and black border /50 are well above $200-300 already. With Harris likely to be a big part of the Braves future plans, his cards could climb even higher if he continues developing into an all-around star player.

Rookies Spencer Strider and Michael Kopech also have valuable rookie cards in the 2022 Topps Chrome set. Strider emerged as a breakout rookie starter for the World Series champion Braves, posting a 2.67 ERA with 202 strikeouts in 131.2 innings pitched. His base rookie is around $30-40 while some parallels are above $100. Kopech transitioned to the White Sox rotation full-time and was excellent, going 5-9 with a 3.58 ERA and 153 strikeouts in 128 innings. His base rookie trades in the $15-20 range currently. Both pitchers have ace potential that could drive their rookie values up significantly over the coming years.

Veteran star cards are also highly sought after in Topps Chrome each year. One of the biggest risers has been New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge, who shattered the American League single season home run record with 62 in 2022. His base card has climbed above $50 already and parallels like the black border /50, gold refractor /5 and 1/1 printing plates are valued in the thousands. Fellow AL MVP candidate Shohei Ohtani also has cards on the rise after another outstanding two-way season for the Angels. His base is around $30 while parallels can reach $200-300.

Rookies Oneil Cruz, Bobby Witt Jr. and Adley Rutschman also have rookie cards finding new value after strong debut seasons. Cruz showed off immense power for the Pirates and his base is around $15 with parallels up to $75-100. Witt became the everyday third baseman for the Royals and his base is $10-15 with parallels above $50. Rutschman was named AL Rookie of the Year after an excellent offensive campaign for the Orioles and his base is $10-12 with parallels reaching $50-75. All three players have the talent to potentially become franchise cornerstones, keeping long term interest high in their rookie cards.

Parallels and serial numbered cards provide some of the biggest opportunities for value growth in Topps Chrome. The black border /50 parallels of stars like Judge, Ohtani and rookie standouts Rodriguez, Harris, Strider and Cruz have already climbed well above the $100-200 range in many cases. Extremely low numbered refractors and printing plates have seen the most dramatic early jumps, with examples like a Julio Rodriguez gold refractor /5 selling for over $2,000 and his 1/1 printing plate reaching north of $10,000 based on recent eBay sales. As the seasons progress and these young stars develop, those ultra rare serial numbered cards could appreciate exponentially from their early prices.

In addition, Topps Chrome also features some of the most visually striking and collectible parallel designs in the entire hobby each year. Refractors, negatives, blacks and colorized parallels attract collectors looking to build high end rainbow sets of their favorite players. Sets like a full color refractor rainbow of a star rookie could potentially become six figure collections down the line. The vintage styled “Chrome Update” parallel inserts have also developed a strong following in recent years.

While it remains early in the product cycle, the 2022 Topps Chrome baseball set is shaping up to house some true blue chip modern investments. Rookie sensations like Rodriguez and Harris along with veterans like Judge and Ohtani leading the way, sustained success on the field should drive strong long term appreciation for the prized chrome photo variations of these stars. Savvy collectors taking advantage of the early prices on the hottest rookies and parallels now could reap sizeable rewards holding for 5-10 years as these young careers develop. 2022 Topps Chrome is poised to become one of the set’s most collectible and valuable issues when looking back years from now.

BEST CARDS FROM 2022 TOPPS CHROME BASEBALL

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2022 Topps Chrome Baseball was one of the most highly anticipated baseball card releases of the year. As a refractor parallel of the flagship Topps set, Topps Chrome is known for its eye-catching color variations and prospects of finding valuable rookie cards in brilliant refractors. This year’s Chrome offering did not disappoint, delivering several standout rookie cards and parallels of star veterans. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top cards collectors sought after from the 2022 Topps Chrome release.

Bobby Witt Jr. Chrome Refractors

Perhaps the biggest rookie star of 2022 was Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., son of former MLB pitcher Bobby Witt. Witt Jr. had a phenomenal debut season that saw him finish second in the AL Rookie of the Year voting. His rookie cards from Topps Chrome, particularly the prized refractors, were some of the set’s most coveted. The standard Chrome refractor /499 was highly sought after, but collectors were also on the hunt for rare parallels like the Gold refractor /50, Rainbow foil refractor /25, and Ultra rare Black 1/1. Any Witt Jr. refractor pulled from a pack carried a high perceived value given his immediate superstar potential. Many believe his rookie cards could become some of the most valuable from the entire 2022 baseball card class when all is said and done.

Spencer Torkelson Chrome RCs

The number one overall pick from 2020, Detroit Tigers first baseman Spencer Torkelson also had a noteworthy rookie campaign in 2022 after a slow start. His Topps Chrome rookie cards, especially the refractors, gained value as he started to heat up offensively in the second half. The standard Torkelson Chrome refractor /499 remains a key rookie to own from the set. Like Witt Jr., collectors also targeted rare parallels and serial numbered versions of Torkelson’s RC, such as the Gold /50, Rainbow /25, and 1/1 Black. With his promising power bat and pedigree as the top draft choice, Torkelson has all the tools to be a perennial All-Star, making his 2022 Topps Chrome rookie cards a solid long term basketball.

Julio Rodriguez Chrome RCs

Seattle Mariners center fielder Julio Rodriguez had a breakout rookie season that saw him named American League Rookie of the Year. As one of the set’s biggest stars, Rodriguez’s Topps Chrome rookie cards were in high demand across the board. The standard Chrome refractor /499 remains a core card to own. But collectors also prized parallels like the Gold /50, Rainbow /25, and coveted 1/1 Black parallel. Rodriguez’s electrifying play and five-tool skill set have cemented him as a future face of the league, making his Topps Chrome rookie cards an anchor investment in any collection. With his budding superstardom, Rodriguez parallels from 2022 Topps Chrome are poised to become some of the most valuable modern rookie cards in the hobby.

Riley Greene Chrome RCs

While injuries limited his playing time as a rookie, Detroit Tigers outfielder Riley Greene still generated plenty of buzz in the hobby thanks to his tools and pedigree as a former number five overall draft pick. Greene’s Topps Chrome rookie cards, especially the prized refractors, found their way into many collectors’ PC’s in hopes of landing a future star at a reasonable price point. The standard Chrome refractor /499 remains an affordable Greene RC option. But more valuable parallels like the Gold /50, Rainbow /25, and 1/1 Black also circulated on the secondary market. As Greene’s career progresses and he stays healthy, these early Topps Chrome rookie cards could emerge as steals in retrospect given his all-around skills and potential impact bat.

Two-Sport Stars Chrome RCs

2022 Topps Chrome featured the rookie cards of several athletes who starred in multiple sports, generating crossover appeal. One of the most sought-after was that of Twins shortstop Royce Lewis. Lewis was a highly touted prospect and first overall pick who also played quarterback in high school. His Topps Chrome rookie cards, especially the prized refractors, captured collectors from both the baseball and football card hobbies. Giants catcher Joey Bart, a former top baseball prospect and state champion quarterback, also saw strong demand for his Topps Chrome rookie cards. And Diamondbacks pitcher Drey Jameson, an former elite high school hoops player, turned heads with his dual-sport pedigree reflected in his 2022 Topps Chrome rookie card offerings.

Star Veterans Chrome Parallels

While rookies drove much of the hype, 2022 Topps Chrome also featured several valuable parallel cards of veteran baseball stars. The prized 1/1 Black parallel Autographs and Memorabilia cards of household names like Mike Trout, Aaron Judge, and Mookie Betts commanded top dollar on the resale market. But collectors also targeted more attainable parallels like the Gold /50, Rainbow /25, and lower-numbered refractors of superstars. Parallels of emerging young stars like Juan Soto, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Wander Franco also gained traction. For set builders and star collectors, finding a sought-after numbered parallel of a favorite player in Topps Chrome added tremendous rainbow appeal.

In conclusion, 2022 Topps Chrome Baseball delivered several standout rookie cards and parallel hits that have already proven to be long-term keepers in collections. From prized Bobby Witt Jr. and Julio Rodriguez refractors to dual-sport stars like Royce Lewis, this year’s Topps Chrome release featured several keys for rookie PC’s. Add in coveted parallel cards of established veterans and rising talents, and it’s clear why 2022 Topps Chrome remains one of the most collected modern issues in the hobby today. For both investments and rainbow-building purposes, many of the top cards from this release are sure to gain even more value and popularity in the years to come.

TARGET BASEBALL CARDS 2022 BOWMAN 2022 CHROME

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Target continues to be one of the best retail stores for finding coveted new baseball cards each year. In 2022, Target received shipments of two highly anticipated new card releases – Topps Bowman and Topps Chrome Baseball. Both of these sets feature the game’s top prospects and biggest stars on beautiful photography focused cardboard. Let’s take a deeper look at what collectors could find at Target for these 2022 baseball card releases.

The 2022 Bowman release continues Topps tradition of highlighting up and coming minor leaguers in their prospect heavy set. As usual, the big draws for Bowman are the autographed rookie card parallels that can be pulled. Finding a rookie auto, especially for a player like Julio Rodriguez who went on to win AL Rookie of the Year, can yield a valuable card. Target received shipments of Bowman blaster boxes, hanger packs, and singles packs. The blasters at $25 MSRP offered 6 packs with chances at the top rookies like Bobby Witt Jr. and prospects like Gunnar Henderson. Hangers at $10 had 3 packs inside. Bowman base cards can still carry value as fans look to collect full rainbow sets with various parallels like refractors, green shimmer, and special blue paper. Target also had Bowman’s Best blasters that focus more on current MLB players.

Moving into the summer months, Target then received shipments of Topps Chrome baseball cards, another photography focused choice for collectors. The design of Topps Chrome plays to its strengths, with sharp closeup pictures on a thick refracting card stock. This gives the cards a high end appeal even in the modern baseball card market. Target had Topps Chrome blister packs usually containing 2 to 3 packs inside. Each pack contains only 4 cards but has the potential to yield hits like autographs, memorabilia cards, or prized refractors of current stars. The biggest star player cards like Mike Trout, Shohei Ohtani, and Ronald Acuña Jr refractors demand the highest prices. Chrome Update and Series 2 continue the theme through the end of the year as well.

While Target receives shipments sporadically throughout the year, certain date ranges saw some of the largest stock availability for both Bowman and Chrome. In late April and early May, just after the official Bowman release date, Target stores received multiple replenishments of Bowman products on the shelves. Collector traffic was high during this period with fans eager to rip packs. Similarly, late June through mid-July marked a prime time to check for Topps Chrome at Target. Weekends especially saw restocks intended to meet collector demand during these key baseball card release windows.

Beyond the mainstream flagship card releases, Target also carried other niche and commemorative baseball card products in 2022. Allen & Ginter and Stadium Club showed up on shelves throughout the summer. Both sets feature unique photo variations and parallels within each packed. And as baseball’s postseason began in October, Target put out limited edition playoff cards as well as series specific collector boxes for teams like the Astros and Phillies featuring their 2022 rosters.

While demand remains sky high for new releases, some diligent collectors found success at Target by checking back frequently for restocks rather than just on official street dates. Early morning and late evening visits on weekdays often caught stockers in the process of loading shelves. And talking to Target team members, especially in higher volume stores, about expected shipment times proved helpful for some hobbyists eager for a retail score. Competition grows every year, but the right Target at the right time still gave baseball card collectors chances in 2022 to land coveted rookie pulls and sought after refractors outside the secondary marketplace. Going forward, Target’s participation in the trading card game shows no signs of slowing as they aim to be a consistent supplier for this expanding collector base.

In summary, Target provided many baseball card fans opportunities in 2022 to add flagship releases like Bowman and Chrome to their collections at MSRP. Both sets delivered prospects and stars on memorable photography centered designs. While availability fluctuated based on wider market forces, diligent in-store hunting or maintaining relationships with retail partners gave collectors chances for prized retail hits outside the high prices of the reseller scene. And with Target showing no signs of stepping back from trading cards, their shelves will remain top retail spots in the future for finding the next stars of the game on cardboard.

2017 TOPPS CHROME BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2017 Topps Chrome baseball card set was another highly anticipated release from trading card giant Topps. As one of the premiere modern Chrome baseball card products on the market, 2017 Topps Chrome did not disappoint fans and collectors. The base set consisted of 175 total cards, including short prints and insert cards. Some of the biggest rookies and stars of the 2017 MLB season were featured prominently in the design, photography and chase inserts that made 2017 Topps Chrome a collector favorite.

Topps Chrome has risen to unprecedented popularity since its debut in the late 1990s by employing cutting-edge technology and photography to produce cards with dazzling, reflective designs unlike any other baseball card on the market. For 2017, Topps once again delivered glossy, high-quality images encapsulated in protective plastic coating that brought the players to life like never before. Vivid team logos and uniform colors practically jumped off the cards. Backgrounds provided interesting scenes from ballparks or actions shots that placed each player perfectly in context.

Some of the brightest young stars in baseball dominated the base set and short prints of 2017 Topps Chrome such as Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant, Dodgers outfielder Cody Bellinger, Astros second baseman Jose Altuve and Yankees pitcher Luis Severino. Veterans like Clayton Kershaw, Mike Trout and Noah Syndergaard also received prominent base card placements. The design featured mostly headshots of players against solid color backgrounds with team logos above their names. Statistics were placed on the bottom border along with copyright info. Parallels and serial numbering added to the nostalgia of the classic Chrome look.

Collector chase cards in 2017 Topps Chrome included the usual assortment of popular inserts such as All-Star, Diamond Kings and Galactic parallels. Two exciting new insert sets highlighted the player of the year candidates – Rookie Crusade and Postseason Performers. Rookie Crusade featured the top MLB rookie position players and pitchers vying for Rookie of the Year honors in photo collages from their debut seasons. Postseason Performers highlighted clutch playoff heroes from the 2016 season in posed action shots and team logo backgrounds harkening back to their October heroics. Both sets ended up eerily predicting the actual award winners like Bellinger and Corey Seager on the Rookie Crusade cards.

Perhaps the most notable short prints in 2017 Topps Chrome were the prized Retired Numbers parallels featuring MLB legends from every team who had their jersey retired like Derek Jeter, Hank Aaron and Nolan Ryan. These SPs placed the iconic stars in unique photographic poses and treatments befitting their hallowed status. Other popular parallel subsets included Stars of the Game, Gallery of Stars, Rainbow Foil and Frozen FX Frozen Moments captures. Serial numbering was kept tight on most parallels to keep collector demand high for the premier “hits” in the set.

Topps also flexed its creative muscle with fun oddball inserts in 2017 Topps Chrome. Players were reimagined as superheroes on the Comic Cuts cards with logos from DC and Marvel imprinted opposing. Kershaw even donned a Superman inspired costume fitting of his dominant abilities on the mound. Stranger Things premiered its second season in the fall of 2017 and Topps capitalized with Stranger Players mashups of stars photographed in the eerie Upside Down alternate dimension featured in the hit Netflix series.

On the secondary market, 2017 Topps Chrome packs initially sold for around $4-5 MSRP at release but singles, hits and parallels steadily appreciated as the season unfolded. Hall of Fame rookie cards and serial # parallels for stars like Aaron Judge routinely command $50-100 raw with higher grades bringing several hundreds. The full base set can be completed for under $50 but unique inserted parallel cards remain the real prizes. Several years after release, 2017 Topps Chrome endures as one of the finestChrome issuesdue to its stunning photography, accurate players checklist and fun theme inserts capturing the excitement of MLB’s 2017 season. Whether completing a base set or chasing after coveted short prints,2017 Topps Chrome provided a unique collecting experience that remains a favorite among baseball card aficionados to this day.

MOST VALUABLE TOPPS CHROME 2022 BASEBALL CARDS

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Topps Chrome is one of the most anticipated baseball card releases each year from sports card giant Topps. The shiny chrome design has become synonymous with high-end rookies, prospects, and stars of the game. The 2022 edition was no different, housing several highly valuable rookie cards that could appreciate significantly with strong on-field performance.

One of the most expensive cards available for sale now is the Julio Rodriguez Topps Chrome Prizm Green Refractor rookie card numbered to /99. Rodriguez had a phenomenal debut season for the Mariners in 2022, battling for the AL Rookie of the Year award. His tools and upside have him poised as a future superstar. The Prizm Green refractor captures that hype and prestige in chrome form. Examples in mint condition have already crested six figures on the secondary market. Expected to continually climb if Rodriguez continues developing into the perennial All-Star many project.

Another hyped rookie that delivered was Seattle Mariners shortstop Noelvi Marte. While he spent most of 2022 in the minors, Marte is considered one of the top prospects in baseball. The prized position player has five-tool potential and gaudy minor league stats. Topps Chrome afforded collectors an early opportunity to invest in Marte. Of particular interest are the Prizm Refractors numbered to /199 or lower, which have entered four-figure territory for pristine copies. Marte is likely MLB bound in 2023 and poised for stardom, making his rookie cards a strong long-term hobby investment.

Perhaps the single most valuable card in the entire 2022 Topps Chrome set belongs to San Diego Padres superstar shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr. Due to an injury plagued 2022 season after an 80-game PED suspension, Tatis saw drastically reduced card production compared to previous years. This has made his flagship chrome rookie all the more difficult to acquire. The Prizm Refractor #/199 parallel specifically holds immense collector demand due to the prestigious parallel designation coupled with Tatis’ established superstardom. Graded mint version regularly eclipse $10,000 USD and could appreciate significantly if Tatis bounces back to his 2019-2020 MVP caliber levels of production moving forward.

Two of the greatest prospects in all of baseball also debuted in Topps Chrome – Druw Jones from the Atlanta Braves and Jackson Holliday from the Baltimore Orioles. As the sons of former MLB All-Stars Andruw Jones and Matt Holliday, both Jones and Holliday entered professional baseball with immense expectations and hype. Their chrome rookie cards capture that excitement for collectors seeking to buy into top tier prospects. Of note are the Jones Prizm Refractor /199 and Holliday Prizm Refractor Silver Prizm /75, which have reached $1,000 in top condition already despite neither player accruing a minor or major league at-bat. If either reaches their full upside, these cards could mushroom exponentially in value.

Staying in the realm of prospects, Twins ss/2b Emmanuel Rodriguez produced one of the more intriguing rookie cards in the set. Rodriguez entered 2022 as a modestly regarded international free agent signing, but exploded onto the scene by hitting .323 with 19 home runs between low-A and high-A ball. Now considered a blue-chip prospect, his Topps Chrome Prizm Refractor /199 has jumped up accordingly – readily trading hands for $400-500 in top-grade. Rodriguez has an exciting chance to continue building on his breakout season and climb prospect rankings, potentially fueling further growth of this already valuable rookie card.

While prospects and rookies often command the most attention, superstar veterans can still hold immense value in Topps Chrome as well – especially if injury led to minimized production. One example is Los Angeles Angels two-way phenom Shohei Ohtani. After elbow issues wiped out his 2022 pitching season early, Shohei rookie cards from his MVP 2021 campaign skyrocketed in demand. Collectors understandably want to maintain exposure to his rare two-way talents. The Ohtani Topps Chrome Prizm Refractor /199 parallel in particular has cracked $1,000 as a result, highlighting his indispensable place within the hobby.

Throughout its illustrious history, Topps Chrome has housed some of the hobby’s most iconic and valuable rookie cards. The 2022 edition continued that tradition with breakouts like Rodriguez, established talents in Tatis Jr. and Ohtani, and blue-chip prospects Jones and Holliday. Strong performances moving forward could see examples from this set appreciate exponentially. For savvy collectors, Topps Chrome serves as an annually ideal opportunity to plant long-term seeds on tomorrow’s baseball stars today in shimmering chrome card form.