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SCORE RISING STAR 1990 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1990 Score baseball card set featured the Score brand’s “Rising Star” subset focusing on promising young players who were beginning to make a name for themselves in Major League Baseball. With the proliferation of baseball cards in the late 1980s and early 1990s, Score and other card companies sought out unique ways to highlight rookie and prospect cards that could become valuable if those players panned out. The 1990 Score Rising Star subset ended up identifying several future stars who lived up to their potential.

Among the featured Rising Star cards from the 1990 Score set were pitcher Greg Maddux of the Chicago Cubs, pitcher Dwight Gooden of the New York Mets, pitcher Jimmy Key of the Toronto Blue Jays, third baseman Gary Sheffield of the Milwaukee Brewers, and outfielder Kevin Mitchell of the San Francisco Giants. All five of these players became All-Stars and contributors to World Series championship teams over their careers. In particular, Maddux emerged as one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history, winning 4 Cy Young Awards and becoming a first-ballot Hall of Famer. His 1990 Score Rising Star card, which featured him in a Cubs uniform, now routinely sells for well over $100 in top-graded condition given his legendary career.

Beyond those five established stars featured, the 1990 Score Rising Star subset also identified several other talented young players who had breakout potential but careers that didn’t fully materialize. Catcher Sandy Alomar, Jr. of the San Diego Padres and shortstop Mike Bordick of the Baltimore Orioles both enjoyed solid big league careers as role players and starters for over a decade but fell short of true stardom. Pitcher Ken Hill of the Texas Rangers flashed excellent stuff early in his career but was derailed by injuries. Outfielder John Olerud of the New York Mets developed into a premier hitting first baseman but never eclipsed the superstar hype that surrounded his prospect card.

Several other Rising Star cards from the 1990 Score set profiled players who never panned out in MLB for various reasons. Pitchers Trevor Hoffman of the Cincinnati Reds and Jimmy Key of the Toronto Blue Jays did have some initial success but serious arm injuries cut their careers short. Outfielders Brian L. Hunter of the New York Mets and Darren Daulton of the Philadelphia Phillies showed promise as rookies but hit roadblocks that ultimately relegated them to part-time duty. Pitchers Jack Armstrong of the Chicago White Sox and Darrin Jackson of the Chicago Cubs flashed ability on the mound but control issues sent them to bullpen roles before premature retirements.

Despite featuring a few busts, the 1990 Score Rising Star subset as a whole did a commendable job of identifying talent on the cusp of stardom across baseball. Maddux, Gooden, Sheffield, and Mitchell in particular became perennial All-Stars who all cashed in on huge free agent contracts later in their careers. While the excitement of prospect hype often precedes true greatness, Score took an early chance on showing the promise of these young guns with photographic cards emphasizing their beginnings. For investors and collectors, picking a star performer or two from prospect sets can yield historic returns if that talent develops as forecast. The 1990 Score Rising Stars cards offer a unique time capsule into the early careers of players who made substantial impacts throughout the 1990s.

In the trading card market today, complete Topps and Upper Deck rookie card sets often get the most attention from collectors. Prospect subsets like Score’s Rising Stars from past decades have quietly gained admiration for identifying future Hall of Famers still in the early stages. The allure of finding “the next big thing” before their stardom takes root remains exciting for any collector or investor. When it comes to the 1990 Score Rising Stars, admirers can look back with the benefit of hindsight and appreciate how prescient some of those selections ended up being. For better or worse, the cards epitomize the excitement and uncertainty surrounding baseball’s emerging talent 30 years ago.

BASEBALL CARDS RISING IN VALUE

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Baseball cards have been a beloved hobby and pastime for generations. Ever since the late 19th century when cigarette companies first started including cards in their packs, kids and collectors alike have enjoyed amassing collections of their favorite players through the years. Over the past few decades something remarkable has happened – the value of vintage baseball cards has skyrocketed.

Several key factors have contributed to the rising valuations we now see in the hobby. For one, the baby boomer generation that grew up collecting in the 1950s and 60s is now reaching retirement age. As they downsize or pass away, their treasured childhood collections are re-entering the market. Demand still far outstrips supply for high-grade examples of the sport’s earliest trading card issues from companies like T206, E90, and 1909-11 T206.

At the same time, the collector base has expanded dramatically. What was once considered a niche interest is now a mainstream one, as former players like Ken Griffey Jr. and Barry Bonds helped introduce new generations to the allure of the cards in the late 80s and 90s. Celebrity enthusiasts like actor Mark Hamill and former NBA star Shaquille O’Neal have also lent their star power to elevating awareness.

Nostalgia is a huge driver of current prices as well. As the baby boomers reminisce about their youth, they’re willing to pay top dollar to recapture those feelings through a pristine Mickey Mantle rookie or Babe Ruth card. This nostalgia, combined with the relatively small surviving populations of high-grade vintage issues, means the rarest cards can trade for millions. A 1909 Honus Wagner recently sold at auction for $6.6 million, setting a new record.

The rise of online auction sites like eBay also opened up the market tremendously. Where once you had to rely on local hobby shops or shows to find buyers, now collectors from around the world can bid on a card with just a few clicks. Increased liquidity and competition for the best stuff has pushed values skyward. Sites like PSA and BGS that professionally grade cards have further grown the hobby by giving it an extra layer of standardization and reassurance for buyers.

Institutional investment has further propped up the market in recent years. As traditional assets like real estate, stocks, and bonds became overvalued, many high net worth individuals and funds looked to alternative stores of value that could still appreciate. Rare cards fit the bill perfectly with their limited supply and passionate collector base. When pension funds and endowments enter the fray, it drives prices up even higher.

Some predictions are that we may now be in a bubble territory for vintage cards, as speculative mania takes hold. Most industry analysts think values will remain elevated long-term, supported by strong demographic and economic factors. As more Gen Xers and Millennials get bit by the collecting bug, they’ll drive future demand. Nostalgia is also a very durable emotion, ensuring the best vintage cards from the sport’s earliest eras will stay highly coveted.

In the meantime, values at the top of the hobby remain astronomical. A T206 Honus Wagner in PSA Gem Mint condition would be worth multiple millions. But affordable opportunities still exist lower down the food chain. Complete sets from the 1950s can be found in the $1000-5000 range depending on condition. And individual stars from the 1970s-80s like George Brett, Nolan Ryan, and Cal Ripken Jr. offer a more budget-friendly way to participate.

Whether you’re a casual fan or serious collector, the current baseball card boom means it’s never been a better time in the hobby’s history to be involved. Prices have risen across the board, from commons to superstars. And as more new collectors enter each year, demand doesn’t seem to be slowing. For astute buyers who pick their spots, the potential remains high for cards purchased now to greatly appreciate further in the coming decades. So get out there, start ripping packs, and happy hunting in this golden era for baseball memorabilia investors!

SCORE RISING STARS BASEBALL CARDS

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Baseball cards featuring potential future stars that are just starting their careers in Major League Baseball have been popular among collectors for decades. Known as “rising stars” or “prospect” cards, these allow fans to potentially get cards of players early in their careers before they become well-known stars.

One of the main companies that issues rising star or prospect baseball cards annually is Score Trading Cards. Since the late 1980s, Score has produced rookie and prospect sets that focus on players who have shone in the minor leagues but are new to the majors. Some of these players go on to have great careers, while others fade away, adding intrigue to chasing and collecting these types of cards.

Finding and acquiring the cards of players before they become superstars is part of the excitement for many collectors. Some of the biggest names in baseball today like Mike Trout, Bryce Harper, Mookie Betts, Juan Soto, and Ronald Acuña Jr. all had their first major league cards as rising stars or rookies included in Score sets in recent years before their stardom. Holding an early card of a player who goes on to greatness adds cache and value to a collection long-term.

While there is obviously no surefire way to predict future Hall of Famers or MVPs based on minor league performance, Score and other companies do extensive research on prospects coming up through team farms systems. Scouts and analysts rank and rate talents, tools, and potentials. They try to select the most likely candidates to get cards made of them in rising star sets before they debut in the majors.

Some of the standout Score prospect and rising star sets over the decades that featured many future stars include “Score Board Greats” from 1987-1989, “American League Prospects” and “National League Prospects” from 1992-1995, “Score Rookies & Traded” from 1996-2004, and more recently “Score Baseball” from 2005 to present. These sets often included over 100 or more rookie cards per year ranging from top prospects to deeper pool players.

One of the landmark Score rising star releases was the 1988 version of “Score Board Greats”. It had rookie cards for the likes of Barry Bonds, Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, and Mark McGwire amongst over 150 total cards. Many consider it one of the greatest and most valuable vintage prospect sets ever made in terms of the sheer number of Hall of Fame caliber players it featured early in their careers.

Other memorable Score rising star releases down the decades included the 1992 set that debuted the rookie cards of Derek Jeter, Todd Helton, and Jason Giambi before they were household names. The 1996 “Score Rookies & Traded” set had the rookie introductions of Chipper Jones, Nomar Garciaparra, Johnny Damon, and others. In more modern years, the 2005 “Score Baseball” release heralded the first MLB cards of Alex Gordon, Ryan Braun, Jay Bruce, and others who went on to stardom.

When collecting and enjoying these Score rising star and prospect baseball cards, there are a few things to keep in mind to better understand and appreciate them. Having reasonable and realistic expectations about prediction success rates is important. Not every top prospect pans out or becomes a superstar, injuries and other factors often intervene. It’s more about enjoying the chase of the unknown potential of the players.

Another aspect is that while the biggest stars from these sets gain high value as their careers progress, most cards in the sets will have relatively affordable prices. Part of the fun is acquiring cards of talented players who may break out, even if they are commons in the set at the time. It’s a form of value speculation in cards. Patience is also recommended, as it can take years for prospects to develop fully or change teams/situations.

Score remains committed to producing quality annual rising star and prospect baseball cards for collectors looking to track the future of MLB. With thorough scouting and selection, their sets give fans an early opportunity to add the next generation of baseball greats to their collections before most others. For many, acquiring and holding the early career cardboard of a player who goes on to superstardom is one of the most rewarding aspects of the hobby.

1990 SCORE RISING STAR BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1990 Score rising star baseball card set was one of the most iconic sets of the late 80s/early 90s. Score’s rising star cards focused on young prospects and recently called up players who were just starting to make a name for themselves in the major leagues. These cards captured players at an early stage in their career when there was still uncertainty about how good they might become. Several players featured in the 1990 Score rising star set went on to have outstanding careers and become true major league stars.

The rising star set was Score’s way of acknowledging and tracking the progress of hot young talents around baseball. It gave collectors a chance to potentially own cards of big future stars very early in the player’s career. While prospect status provided no guarantees, the anticipation of “bust or boom” for these players added interesting drama and intrigue to the hobby. Some of the more notable and valuable rising star cards from the 1990 Score release include Ken Griffey Jr, Gregg Jefferies, Gary Sheffield, David Cone, and Jeff Bagwell. Let’s take a closer look at a few of these players:

Ken Griffey Jr’s 1990 Score rising star card is arguably the most iconic and valuable card in the entire set. Griffey was already one of the game’s most hyped prospects in 1989 when he was called up at age 19 by the Seattle Mariners. His dazzling athleticism, five-tool skills, and famous baseball lineage as the son of Ken Griffey Sr made his prospect status must-follow for collectors. In 1990, he began showing signs he was poised for stardom by hitting .269 with 16 home runs as a 20-year old rookie. Of course, Griffey would go on to have a legendary Hall of Fame career, cementing his 1990 rising star card as one of the best early indicators of future greatness in the hobby. Graded PSA 10 examples have sold for over $20,000 in recent years.

Another huge emerging talent of the late 80s/early 90s was Gregg Jefferies. As a top 5 overall draft pick by the Mets in 1987, Jefferies electrified the minors with pure hitting skills and plate discipline beyond his years. His 1990 Score rising star showed him at age 21 after hitting .329 across AAA and his MLB debut season. Jefferies continued mashing in the majors over the next few years and looked like a potential batting champion. While injuries hampered his career later on, his rising star card is a reminder of the phenom status he carried so early. PSA 10 Jefferies cards have reached over $3,000.

Another member of that heralded Mets farm system was outfielder and 1990 National League Rookie of the Year, Jeff Bagwell. Bagwell’s combination of power and patience made him a clear prospect to watch. His 1990 rising star captures him at age 22 in his first full MLB season where he hit .294 with 15 homers and 69 RBI playing both outfield and first base. Of course, Bagwell would solidify himself as one of baseball’s most consistent sluggers and all-around talents over the next 15 years, elevating his early rising star status. PSA 10 examples routinely sell for $1,000-2,000.

Another major 1990 rising star was Gary Sheffield. After dominating the minors, “Sheff” broke in with the Brewers at age 21 in 1988. His impressive power potential was on display with a .233 average but 14 home runs in just 240 at-bats that season. This put Sheffield firmly on the map as a budding all-star caliber talent. His 1990 rising star shows him at 22 preparing to unleash over 20 homers each season for the next decade. Sheffield cemented a Hall of Fame resume and his rising star card a valuable find for any collection.

David Cone was another burgeoning superstar pitcher highlighted in the 1990 set. After debuting in 1987, Cone emerged as the Mets ace by 1990 when he made the National League All-Star team with a 16-5 record and 2.22 ERA. His rising star card at age 27 hints at the top-of-the-rotation consistency Cone would provide for nearly two decades in the bigs. He continued winning over 200 games between five different franchises. Cone’s effective pitching longevity added lasting appeal to this card.

While injuries derailed some careers of promising 1990 Score rising stars like Bobby Witt and Ben McDonald, the set as a whole proved an excellent early barometer for future impact big leaguers. It introduced collectors to stars-in-the-making even before they dominated top prospect rankings. Almost thirty years later, these cards still excite collectors with the nostalgia of seeing football superstars in their formative pro seasons before massive success. The 1990 Score rising star set exemplified the excitement of following top prospects develop into all-time great major leaguers.

1990 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS RISING STARS

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The 1990 Score baseball card set featured some of the top young talents in Major League Baseball on its “Rising Stars” subset cards. Breaking out rookies and sophomores who were poised to become the future stars of the game, the 1990 Score Rising Stars cards highlighted several players who would go on to have outstanding careers. At a time when the baseball card market was still booming, collectors eagerly sought after these prospects with the hopes that they held the next superstar in their hands. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top names featured in the 1990 Score Rising Stars subset.

One of the biggest stars of that Rising Stars subset would become Barry Bonds. As a 25 year old coming off his fourth MLB season in 1990 with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Bonds had already established himself as an elite outfielder and one of the game’s most feared sluggers. His ’89 campaign saw him hit .230 with 25 home runs and 76 RBI, numbers that pale in comparison to what he would produce later in his hall of fame career. But even at that young age, Bonds displayed breathtaking athleticism in the field and plate discipline few others could match. His powerful left-handed swing was already the stuff of legend. Bonds would go on to have 12 more all-star seasons and win a record 7 MVP awards, cementing his place as one of the greatest players of all-time. For collectors in 1990, acquiring his Rising Stars card meant holding a piece of offensive history in the making.

Many felt Chipper Jones had superstar potential when his 1990 Score RC debuted him as a member of the Atlanta Braves organization. Still just 18 years old at the time, Jones showed prodigious power from both sides of the plate during his time in the minors. After being selected #1 overall in the 1990 MLB Draft, expectations were sky high for the young third baseman out of Ball Ground, Georgia. Chipper would live up to the hype and then some, going on to have a hall of fame career spanning 19 seasons all with the Braves franchise. He’d finish with a .304 average, 468 home runs, and over 1,500 RBI, cementing his status as not just a star, but a true Atlanta icon. His Rising Stars card offered a glimpse into the storied career that lay ahead.

Another slugging third baseman highlighted was Robin Ventura, then a 23 year old with the Chicago White Sox. In his first full season in the bigs in 1989, Ventura clubbed 32 home runs and 109 RBI to finish third in AL Rookie of the Year voting. His powerful left-handed stroke and stellar defensive skills projected him to be a perennial all-star, which he became – receiving five such honors over the next decade. Robin was the complete power package at the hot corner, playing at an all-star level for 15 major league seasons. His 1990 Score RC predicted greatness that was sure to come.

Pitching prospects were also featured, like 21 year old Bobby Witt. The hard-throwing righty had broken into the Texas Rangers rotation in 1989, starting 28 games and posting a respectable 3.73 ERA. With a blazing fastball that hit triple digits on the radar gun, Witt looked like a future ace in the making. He fulfilled that promise to an extent, enjoying three all-star campaigns during the 90s while establishing himself as one of the premier fireballers in baseball. Tragedy would strike in 1999 when Witt’s career was cut short due to elbow injuries, but his Rising Stars card tee’d up collectors for what could have been many more outstanding seasons on the mound.

Outfielders Jerome Walton and Pete Incaviglia also made their cardboard debuts through the 1990 Score RC subset. Walton exploded onto the scene as a 23 year old rookie in 1989, batting an astonishing .316 with 15 HR and 53 RBI over 102 games for the Cubs. His outstanding debut season, which saw him capture NL Rookie of the Year honors, branded Walton as one of the bright young stars to watch. Injuries would plague his career and keep him from achieving his full potential, but his Rising Stars issue hyped his immense promise.

Meanwhile, “Inky” was a 24 year old farmhand in the Texas Rangers system known for mammoth home run blasts in the minors. With prodigious raw power and a burly 6’3″ 230 lbs. frame, Incaviglia teased MLB scouts for years with enormous batting practice moonshots. He finally broke through to the majors in 1990, mashing 12 homers over 67 games. Though he struggled to maintain consistency at the plate, Inky provided many memorable moments with his tape measure shots. His Rising Stars appearance stirred excitement that he could develop into a true slugging force.

Some other notable names found in the 1990 Score RC Rising Stars checklist include Carlos Baerga, Terry Pendleton, Willie McGee, Gregg Olson, and Chuck Finley. Each player brought their unique talents that were just starting to blossom. Baerga emerged as a dynamic offensive second baseman for Cleveland, Pendleton provided consistent all-star caliber production for Atlanta, and pitchers Olson and Finley anchored bullpens and rotations throughout the 1990s.

The 1990 Score baseball card set really shined the spotlight on so many burgeoning young talents that collectors knew would dominate the sport for years to come. From perennial all-stars like Bonds, Jones, and Ventura to talented arms like Witt, the Rising Stars subset delivered on showcasing the future foundation of rosters for over a decade. While injuries and circumstances prevented some from reaching their full potential, most players featured went on to greatly exceeding expectations. For investors at the time, these cards served as a portal into the amazing careers that would unfold. Even today, the 1990 Score Rising Stars continue to hold significant nostalgia and nostalgic value for collectors and fans.

1991 SCORE RISING STARS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1991 Score Rising Stars baseball card set featured some of the top rookie and prospect players from that season. While it may not hold the same nostalgia or popularity of some other early 1990s card releases, there are certainly some valuable gems to be found from the set now over 30 years later. Let’s take a closer look at the most valuable and notable cards from this 112-card baseball card checklist.

One of the biggest risers in value from the 1991 Score Rising Stars set in recent years has been Frank Thomas’ rookie card. As one of the premier power hitters of the 1990s, “The Big Hurt” went on to have a Hall of Fame worthy career that spanned almost two decades in the major leagues. His rookie card from this set in near mint condition can now fetch over $500. In pristine mint condition, a PSA 10 graded Frank Thomas rookie has sold for well over $1000. With Thomas cemented in Cooperstown, his rookie card remains one of the true gems from Score Rising Stars.

Another card that has greatly appreciated over the decades is Juan Gonzalez’ rookie. The two-time AL MVP went on to slam 434 career home runs and was one of the most feared sluggers of the 1990s and early 2000s. His rookie in a PSA 9 grade is valued around $150-200, while a PSA 10 can range from $500-1000 depending on the auction. Considering Gonzalez was not a first round draft pick and took time to develop, his early cards are more scarce than some of his peers. This makes his rookie a very desirable pickup for Rangers or Gonzalez collectors.

While Moises Alou never achieved the superstar status of Thomas or Gonzalez, his 1991 Score Rising Stars rookie card has become quite valuable in its own right. The son of former major leaguer Felipe Alou hit a respectable .303 with 207 home runs and 916 RBI over his 17-year MLB career spent with several teams. High grade examples of his rookie in a PSA 9 or 10 grade can sell for $150-$250, making it one of the more valuable commons from the checklist.

Two other commons that often grade out nicely and continue to increase in price include Eric Davis’ rookie and Knuckleballer Tom Candiotti’s card. “Rowdy” Eric Davis was well on his way to a fine career before injuries derailed him, and shows up nostalgically on 1990s Reds teams cards. Candiotti, meanwhile lasted over a decade in the bigs using his signature floating knuckleball to befuddle hitters. Both players’ rookie cards in a PSA/BGS 9 or 10 can sell in the $75-150 range.

While the majority of rising stars featured were relative newcomers or prospects, there are a few established veterans sprinkled into the checklist as well. Kirby Puckett’s card, showing him in his 1991 All-Star form following 6 consecutive Gold Gloves and 2 prior AL batting titles, has risen steadily to the $40-60 range in top grades. Dennis Eckersley’s card pictures him as a dominant middle reliever/closer for Oakland prior to being dealt to the Red Sox. His star power and on-card achievements make it another $40-75 PSA 9/10 card.

When it comes to prospects who never fully panned out, cards like Ben McDonald’s, William Van Landingham’s, and Adam Hyzdu’s can usually be found for $10-30 in top condition. All 3 were thought to be future rotation anchors, with McDonald experiencing some success before injuries hampered him. Van Landingham and Hyzdu never fulfilled their potential. Their cards retain value due to 1991 hype but are less desirable long term holds.

In the bargain bin range, keep an eye out for prospects like Terry Mulholland’s (went on to carve out a long career as a useful swingman/starter), Luis Segui’s (productive role player), and Jeff Juden’s (brief cup of coffee in the majors) cards. All three can often be acquired in PSA/BGS 9-10 condition in the $10-25 range. For base rookie collectors, these represent affordable vintage options.

As with any early 1990s baseball release, it’s also worth noting the sheer rarity and thus value of finding any card in true pristine mint (PSA/BGS 10) condition from this 29 year old product. Even commons like a Brett Butler or Dave Martinez rookie couldfetch $50+ in absolute flawless grade due to their scarcity. This is a good set for experienced graders to consider cracking and submitting for modern encapsulation if high end 10s exist.

While the 1991 Score Rising Stars set lacks true superstar rookie hall of famers, there are still several notable and valuable cards to be found within the checklist decades later. Keep an eye out especially for the Frank Thomas, Juan Gonzalez, and Moises Alou rookies if chasing big vintage multi-hundred dollar hits. But budget-minded collectors can also build up a nice, affordable core of the set chasing commons and prospects in pristine PSA/BGS 9-10 condition. With legends, all-stars, and “one-that-got-away” talent dispersed throughout, this remains an underrated early 1990s release worth mining for baseball card investors and collectors today.

1989 SCORE RISING STARS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1989 Score Rising Stars baseball card set was unique in that it celebrated some of baseball’s top prospects and young talents who had yet to establish themselves as full-time major leaguers. While many rookie cards at the time featured recently debuted players, the Score Rising Stars set took a look ahead at the future of baseball by highlighting some of the most promising minor leaguers in the game. Several of the players featured went on to have tremendous big league careers, making some of the cards quite valuable today. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the most notable rising stars from the 1989 set and what their cards can be worth to collectors over 30 years later.

One of the biggest stars and most valuable cards from the 1989 Score Rising Stars set is Ken Griffey Jr. As the highly touted son of longtime major leaguer Ken Griffey Sr., Junior lived up to the hype by establishing himself as one of the greatest outfielders and players in baseball history. In his rookie Rising Stars card at age 19, Griffey’s 5-tool talents and glorious left-handed swing were already evident. He would debut in the majors later that year and go on to win 10 Gold Gloves and be selected to 13 All-Star games over a 22-year Hall of Fame career. No surprise then that Griffey’s rookie Rising Stars card is one of the most coveted from the set. In near mint to mint condition, it can fetch upwards of $500-$1000 or more depending on factors like centering and corners. The Griffey is truly a trophy piece for any baseball card collection.

Another superstar player featured as one of Score’s rising talents was Frank Thomas, who was selected by the Chicago White Sox in 1989 after winning back-to-back College Player of the Year awards at Auburn. “The Big Hurt” more than lived up to expectations with 521 career home runs, two MVP awards and a .301 batting average over 19 big league campaigns. His powerful left-handed swing and intimidating presence in the batter’s box made Thomas one of the most feared sluggers of the steroid era. Like Griffey, his ’89 Rising Stars rookie card is a prized possession for collectors, with graded mint condition copies going for $300-$500 or higher. Even in raw near mint, a Thomas Rising Stars can still sell in the $100-$200 range depending on qualities like centering and corners.

While Griffey and Thomas topped expectations and had Hall of Fame careers, a few other big names highlighted as prospects in ’89 struggled with injuries or took longer to develop than expected. Such was the case for Bobby Witt and Ben McDonald, both number one overall picks from the 1988 draft. Witt showed five-tool promise but battled elbow issues, though still managed to play parts of 11 MLB seasons. McDonald was a hard-throwing righty who made two All-Star appearances but never really put it all together consistently due to health. Both of their Rising Stars rookie cards have since gained value as two of the bigger baseball stars of the late ’80s/early ’90s. Near mint Witt and McDonald cards can sell for $50-$100 depending on condition specifics.

In addition to superstars and top prospects, the ’89 Score Rising Stars set also highlighted some promising young talents who went on to have really solid big league careers, even if they didn’t achieve superstardom. Pitchers like Orel Hershiser (already an All-Star in 1988 when featured), Jack McDowell and John Smoltz all developed into reliable starters who pitched well into the 1990s and beyond. Second baseman Quilvio Veras (pictured diving for a ball on his card) carved out a 12-year MLB career, and catcher Charles Johnson was a reliable backstop for over a decade. Their Rising Stars cards have gradually increased in value to the $10-30 range depending on condition for Veras and Smoltz, while Hershiser and McDowell can fetch $20-50 due to their success as pitchers.

The ’89 Score Rising Stars set also highlighted some prospects that never quite panned out or had brief MLB cameos. Pitchers like Bill Kruger, Jimmy Key and Gregg Olson had some big league time but didn’t sustain success. Infielders Mike Lansing and Tim Naehring each got a cup of coffee in the show. Outfielder Gary Roenicke played 6 seasons. Their Rising Stars rookie cards are still collector favorites for fans of ’80s/’90s baseball, but realistically sell for $5-15 depending on the name and condition of the specific card.

While not all of the prospects featured came to fruition like Ken Griffey Jr. and Frank Thomas, the 1989 Score Rising Stars set provided an early peek at some talented young players who would eventually impact the game. Cards of stars like Griffey, Thomas, Bobby Witt and Ben McDonald have grown to six-figure values in mint condition over the decades. But cards of solid big leaguers like Hershiser, McDowell, Veras and Smoltz also appeal to collectors. Even those of pitchers who flamed out hold nostalgia value. The ’89 Score Rising Stars was a unique and prophetic glimpse at baseball’s future.

1990 SCORE RISING STARS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1990 Score Rising Stars baseball card set was full of potential future stars just starting their Major League Baseball careers. With 198 cards in the base set, collectors had the opportunity to get cards featuring many players who would go on to have very successful MLB careers. While no one could have predicted exactly which of these young players would become superstars, the 1990 Score Rising Stars set provided a fun glimpse at the future of baseball.

Some of the biggest names included in the 1990 Score Rising Stars set were Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, Jeff Nelson, Andy Benes, Roberto Alomar, Craig Biggio, John Smoltz, Todd Van Poppel, Kenny Lofton, Jeff Bagwell, and Moises Alou. All of these players would go on to have outstanding MLB careers including numerous all-star appearances, Silver Slugger awards, Gold Glove awards, and even some would be inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. For collectors who obtained cards of these future stars early in their careers, they now own valuable pieces of sports memorabilia.

Greg Maddux’s rookie card from the 1986 Donruss set is one of the most desirable and valuable baseball cards ever produced. His 1990 Score Rising Stars card as a pitcher for the Chicago Cubs also holds significant value since it features him during the early stages of his transition into one of the greatest pitchers in MLB history. Maddux would go on to win 4 Cy Young awards and be inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2014. His 1990 Score Rising Stars card often sells for well over $100 in top conditioned nowadays.

Tom Glavine appeared in the 1990 Score Rising Stars set during his second season with the Atlanta Braves organization after being drafted straight out of high school in 1984. Like Maddux, Glavine developed into an elite pitcher, winning two Cy Young awards of his own to go along with 305 career wins. He is also a member of the Hall of Fame class of 2014. Glavine’s 1990 Score Rising Stars card earns $50-$75 depending on its grade.

Jeff Nelson debuted with the New York Yankees in 1990 and his relief pitching skills proved valuable over 17 MLB seasons. He was a 3-time All-Star and won a World Series championship with the 1996 Yankees. Despite not being a household name, Nelson’s cards from the late 80s and early 90s hold value since they memorialize the beginning of a lengthy MLB career. His 1990 Score Rising Stars can be found for $15-20.

Andy Benes tossed his first MLB pitch in 1988 with the San Diego Padres and had established himself as a reliable starter by 1990. He went on to play 15 seasons while racking up 154 career victories. Benes’ 1990 Score Rising Stars card sells in the $10-15 range today. Another notable future star from the 1990 set was reliever Roberto Alomar, whose rookie cards are iconic but this particular card offers a chance to own an early card of the future Hall of Famer.

Jeff Bagwell enjoyed a breakout rookie campaign with the Houston Astros in 1991 that earned him the Rookie of the Year award. He was just starting to make his mark in the big leagues in 1990 and collectors who knew he was poised for stardom likely snapped up this Rising Stars issue. Bagwell went on to be one of the game’s most powerful and consistent sluggers throughout the 90s and early 2000s, finishing with a career .297 batting average and 449 home runs. His 1990 card is a fairly valuable piece of his collecting puzzle at $50-75 in high grade.

Another slugger who burst onto the MLB scene in the early 90s was Moises Alou. After showing promise with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1989, Alou’s power was beginning to emerge by 1990 as depicted in this Rising Stars release. He would go on to slug 234 home runs over 17 seasons while batting .303. Alou’s 1990 can be found in the $15-20 range.

Hall of Fame inductee Craig Biggio was just starting his 2nd MLB campaign as a second baseman for the Houston Astros in 1990. While he didn’t become a superstar right away, collectors took notice of his skills and work ethic. Biggio developed into arguably the greatest catcher in Astros history, playing 20 seasons in Houston en route to becoming the 27th member inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. His 1990 Rising Stars card holds solid nostalgia value at $25-35.

More moderately priced stars from the 1990 set include John Smoltz ($8-12), Todd Van Poppel ($5-8), and Kenny Lofton ($10-15). Smoltz began transitioning to the bullpen in 1990 before evolving into a premier starting pitcher and closer. Van Poppel was one of the highest drafted pitchers ever at the time but didn’t pan out as a frontline starter. And Lofton’s incredible speed made him a defensive wizard in center field over 18 seasons.

While certainly not a comprehensive list, the above examples give a sampling of some of the top future stars featured in the 1990 Score Rising Stars base set who went on to very productive MLB careers. For collectors, finding vintage cards of these players from before they achieved superstardom adds nostalgic value. The 1990 Score Rising Stars baseball card set was a fun and sometimes prescient look at the next generation of MLB talent. Many names within its 198-card checklist became household names that baseball fans came to love and admire. Even 30+ years later, it proves an intriguing curio from the hobby’s past.

SCORE RISING STAR 1992 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1992 Score brand baseball card set featured a subset known as “Rising Stars” that showcased up-and-coming young talent in Major League Baseball. This subset contained 15 cards that profiled talented players who were breaking through to stardom or expected to blossom into stars in the coming years.

Some of the biggest names featured in the ’92 Score Rising Stars subset would go on to have outstanding MLB careers and become established stars, including Jeff Bagwell, Larry Walker, and Moises Alou. Others showed promise but were unable to reach their full potential due to injuries or other circumstances. It provided collectors a fun opportunity to acquire cards of players poised to make their mark on the game in the early 1990s.

Jeff Bagwell led off the Rising Stars subset as the #1 selection. Bagwell was already establishing himself as one of the top first basemen in baseball in 1992, his third season in the majors. Though just 24 years old at the time, Bagwell was coming off a stellar 1991 campaign where he hit .298 with 15 home runs and 94 RBI for the Houston Astros. He would go on to have a Hall of Fame caliber career, being named to 4 All-Star teams while racking up over 1500 RBI and over 400 home runs as one of the premier power hitters of the 1990s and 2000s.

Larry Walker followed Bagwell as the #2 Rising Star selection. Like Bagwell, Walker was already showing he belonged in the majors by 1992 despite just turning 25 that season. In his first full year in 1991, Walker hit .293 with 13 home runs and 51 RBI as an outfielder for the Montreal Expos. He blossomed into a five-time All-Star, winner of the 1997 NL MVP award, and finished his career with over 300 home runs. Walker proved to be one of the top offensive players of the late 1990s and would be inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2020.

Moises Alou took the #3 spot in the subset. At just 25 years old in 1992, Alou was already a capable everyday outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates, having broken out in 1991 by batting .308 with 12 homers and 70 RBI. Alou enjoyed a long, productive 17-year MLB career, finishing with over 2,100 hits and 350 home runs while playing for six different franchises including the Montreal Expos, Chicago Cubs, and New York Mets. He would represent the Expos three times in the All-Star Game during the late 1990s and played a key role on their 1994 squad that reached the World Series.

Other notable names that featured prominently in the ’92 Score Rising Stars subset include Bobby Bonilla (#5), Darrin Fletcher (#6), David Nied (#10), Pete Schourek (#11), and Alex Arias (#14). Bonilla had already established himself as an impact bat for the Pittsburgh Pirates by 1992, while Fletcher was coming off a breakout season with the Toronto Blue Jays in 1991 that saw him hit .281 in 100 games as a catcher. Nied, Schourek, and Arias each showed promise but were unable to sustain major league careers long-term, with injuries derailing their developments at times.

Two intriguing international players also made the list, with Dominican infielder Tony Fernandez slotted 7th and Japanese pitcher Hideo Nomo checking in at 12th. Fernandez went on to enjoy a solid 17-year MLB career, representing Toronto and other franchises, while Nomo’s inclusion foreshadowed his arrival and success in MLB from 1995 onward as one of baseball’s first true Japanese impact players.

Finally, Joe Carter rounded out the ’92 Score Rising Stars subset at #15. At 30 years old, Carter was a relative veteran compared to others in the group, but was still establishing himself as one of the top sluggers in baseball. He posted six straight seasons of at least 20 home runs from 1989-1994 while playing for Cleveland and San Diego. Of course, Carter is best remembered for blasting his epic World Series walk-off home run for Toronto in 1993, cementing his legacy as a postseason legend and cementing the importance of this Rising Stars subset selection.

In the years since, the 1992 Score Rising Stars subset has become a fun and nostalgic reminder of the stars that were beginning to emerge and make a name for themselves in MLB during the early 1990s. While injuries or circumstances prevented some from fully tapping their potential long-term, overall it proved prophetic in spotlighting young talents like Bagwell, Walker, Alou, Fernandez, and others who went on to truly reach superstar status and have legendary careers. For baseball card collectors and players from that era, digging up one of these Rising Stars cards can instantly spark memories of the promise and excitement surrounding that group of 15 up-and-comers from Score’s 1992 set.

1990 SCORE RISING STARS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1990 Score Rising Stars baseball card set featured some of the top rookie prospects in baseball at the time. While not all panned out, several became superstars and their rookie cards from this set are highly valuable today. The 1990 Score Rising Stars set included 144 cards and featured players who had yet to play in the major leagues but were considered can’t-miss prospects. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top rookies from this set and what their cards are worth today.

One of the biggest stars and most valuable cards from the 1990 Score Rising Stars set is Ken Griffey Jr. Griffey was universally considered a can’t-miss superstar from the time he was drafted first overall in 1987. His flowing left-handed swing and athleticism made him a sure thing even before debuting in the majors in 1989. In the 1990 Score Rising Stars set, Griffey’s card is number 110. This iconic card of “The Kid” swinging his bat is among the most sought after and valuable baseball cards ever produced. In near mint to mint condition, Griffey’s 1990 Score Rising Stars card can fetch $2,000 or more. In pristine gem mint 10 condition, it has sold for over $10,000.

Another superstar whose 1990 Score Rising Stars card holds great value is Frank Thomas. Like Griffey, Thomas was considered a future Hall of Famer from the time he was drafted. His powerful left-handed swing and ability to get on base made scouts drool. Thomas’ card from this set is number 52. Known for his thick physique and nicknamed “The Big Hurt,” Thomas lived up to the hype by winning back-to-back American League MVP awards in 1993-1994. Today, Thomas’ 1990 Score Rising Stars rookie card in near mint to mint condition sells for $400-600. In gem mint 10 condition, it has sold for over $2,000.

While Griffey and Thomas became surefire Hall of Famers, other stars from this set like Barry Larkin and Roberto Alomar also panned out quite well. Larkin’s card is number 49 in the 1990 Score Rising Stars set. The shortstop was the first overall pick in the 1985 draft and made his MLB debut in 1986. He went on to win an NL MVP award in 1995 while playing his whole career for the Cincinnati Reds. Larkin’s smooth defense and timely hitting made him a 12-time All-Star and he was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2012. His rookie card sells for $150-250 in top condition today.

Second baseman Roberto Alomar’s card is number 62 in the 1990 set. Alomar made his debut in 1988 and established himself as one of the best defensive second basemen ever along with being a consistent .300 hitter and base stealer. He was a 12-time All-Star and won 10 Gold Glove awards between the Toronto Blue Jays and Baltimore Orioles. Alomar’s smooth swing and flashy defense made him a fan favorite. His 1990 Score Rising Stars rookie card sells for $75-150 in top condition today.

While Griffey, Thomas, Larkin, and Alomar became surefire Hall of Famers, other stars from this set had careers that fell just shy of Cooperstown. Shortstop Ozzie Smith’s card is number 67. Known as “The Wizard” for his highlight-reel defense, Smith made 15 All-Star teams during his career that was spent entirely with the St. Louis Cardinals. He fell just short of the Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility in 2002, but was later elected in 2002. Smith’s 1990 Score Rising Stars rookie card sells for $50-100 in top condition today.

Pitcher Bret Saberhagen’s card is number 80 in the 1990 Score Rising Stars set. Saberhagen broke in with the Kansas City Royals in 1984 and went on to win two Cy Young Awards in 1985 and 1989. He had a very solid career compiling a 167-117 record and was known for his impressive changeup. Injuries limited Saberhagen’s career potential and he fell short of the Hall of Fame. Still, his 1990 rookie card remains popular with Royals fans and sells for $40-75 in top condition.

While most of the superstars panned out, some top prospects ended up busting. Shortstop Walt Weiss was considered a can’t-miss prospect when drafted first overall by the Oakland A’s in 1981. However, Weiss never developed the power expected of him. His defensive skills kept him in the majors for 17 seasons but he was never an All-Star. Weiss’ card from the 1990 set is number 107. Despite his prospect pedigree, his rookie card only sells for around $10-15 today.

Pitcher Bill Krueger was drafted second overall by the Houston Astros in 1986 and was considered a future ace. However, Krueger struggled with injuries and command issues and never fulfilled his potential. His card from the 1990 set is number 106. Even though Krueger was a former top pick, his rookie card only sells for around $5 due to his lack of success in the majors.

While not all of the prospects panned out, the 1990 Score Rising Stars set featured the rookie cards of future superstars like Ken Griffey Jr., Frank Thomas, Barry Larkin, and Roberto Alomar. Their iconic rookie cards remain some of the most popular and valuable in the hobby. For fans, this set provides a fun look back at baseball’s rising stars from 1990 before most went on to Hall of Fame careers. When found in top condition, the rookie cards of the set’s biggest stars can sell for thousands.