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1986 SPORTFLICS ROOKIES BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1986 Sportflics baseball card set was a memorable one for collectors, as it featured the rookie cards of several all-time great players who would go on to have Hall of Fame careers. While the set did not enjoy the same towering popularity as contemporary giant issues from Topps and Donruss, it nonetheless holds nostalgia and value for those who collected it as kids or adults seeking out affordable rookies of stars before they hit their pricing peaks. Among the notable rookies featured were Roger Clemens, Greg Maddux, Barry Larkin, Mark McGwire, and Charles Nagy. Over three decades later, these cards still intrigue collectors and hold value proportional to the players’ achievements.

Roger Clemens’ 1986 Sportflics rookie card is among the most desirable from the set. Clemens went on to record 354 career wins and strike out 4,672 batters over a 24-season career spent mainly with the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees. He won a record seven Cy Young Awards as the best pitcher in each league. Clemens’ rookie card value reflects his pitching dominance and standing as one of the greatest right-handers in baseball history. Mint condition copies in a PSA 10 Gem grade have sold for over $500 in recent years, while a well-kept PSA 8 Excellent-Mint can still fetch $100-$200. Even low-grade copies in Poor-Fair condition sell in the $10-20 range.

Another Hall of Fame arm appearing for the first time in 1986 Sportflics was Greg Maddux. Like Clemens, Maddux stands among the elite pitchers ever, recognized for his pinpoint control, intelligent pitching approach, and four Cy Young Awards of his own. In a 23-year career split between the Chicago Cubs, Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Dodgers, and San Diego Padres, Maddux racked up 355 victories and superb peripheral stats with just a 3.16 ERA. His rookie prices hover around the $150 mark for a PSA 9 NM-MT copy, with Nice versions still bringing $50-$75 and raw copies in average condition selling in the $15-25 range.

Perhaps the most accomplished position player to debut in 1986 Sportflics was Cincinnati Reds shortstop Barry Larkin. Over his 19 MLB seasons, Larkin batted .295, slugged over 200 homers, drove in 100+ runs nine times, and won an MVP award and a Silver Slugger in 1995 when he led the Reds to the World Series title. He became the first shortstop inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2012. Larkin’s rookie is among the more affordable designated hits from the set, fetching $40-60 raw or $75-100 graded PSA 8-9. Even well-worn copies still trade hands for $10-20 due to Larkin’s enduring popularity in his hometown of Cincinnati.

Another slugger who first appeared in the 1986 Sportflics set was Mark McGwire, then an Athletics rookie sensation after being drafted 10th overall in 1984 out of high school. “Big Mac” went on to smash 583 career home runs, rank tenth all-time, and set the single-season record with 70 dingers in 1998. Of course, McGwire’s legacy remains clouded by steroid allegations during his record chase. Still, his rookie card maintains significance and value anywhere from $100 raw to $250+ in PSA 9-10 condition due to his prodigious power and place in baseball history, for good or ill.

One more pitcher whose Sportflics rookie holds value is California Angels hurler Chuck Finley. Drafted third overall in 1984 out of the University of Tennessee, Finley rose to win 178 games over 17 seasons with the Angels, Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Indians, and St. Louis Cardinals. He didn’t achieve the elusive 300-win threshold but remained a durable, quality starter for nearly two decades in the bigs. Finley’s 1986 rookie prices on the secondary market run $20-40 raw or $75-150 graded PSA 8-9 based on his respectable win total and longevity in the majors.

Beyond these headliner rookies, the 1986 Sportflics set also featured early looks at future stars like Sammy Sosa, Craig Biggio, and David Cone plus veteran stars of the 1980s like Rickey Henderson, Kirby Puckett, Jeff Reardon, and Dwight Gooden on his classic early Mets teams. Condition is naturally a big factor for all the highly coveted andcondition-sensitive rookie cards, especially as time wears on their surfaces. But for collectors on a budget, affordable starting lineups from this classic but underrated mid-80s issue can still unlock some memorable MLB names at fair secondary prices commensurate with the players’ careers and inductions if any to the Hall.

While 1986 Sportflics never achieved the iconic cachet of flagship Topps or Donruss issues from the period, its affordable rookie class featuring future Hall of Famers like Clemens, Maddux, Larkin, and McGwire still tantalizes collectors decades later. Condition impacts pricing as usual, but appreciating fans of baseball history can still track down worthwhile cards paying homage to talented players who shone brightly in the 1980s and beyond. The 1986 Sportflics rookies represent an accessible slice of the hobby for fans of the stars, the era, and the pursuit of memory and value in vintage cardboard.

1991 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS ROOKIES

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The 1991 Score baseball card set featured many young star players who were just starting their MLB careers. This was a great year for rookie cards as talent like Jim Thome, Brad Ausmus, and Bob Hamelin debuted at the major league level and had their rookie cards included in Score packs. The class of ’91 rookies in Score provided a glimpse of future all-stars and hall of famers.

Jim Thome debuted with the Cleveland Indians in 1991 and had card #624 in Score. Even as a rookie, Thome showed immense power potential by hitting 16 home runs. He would go on to smash 612 home runs in his career, which places him 8th all-time. Thome’s rookie card is one of the iconic cards from the early 90s as collectors knew they had a potential superstar on their hands. High grade copies of his ‘91 Score RC in mint condition can fetch well over $100 today.

Another star slugger to debut in ‘91 was Mark McGwire with the Athletics on card #276. While he only hit 5 home runs in his rookie campaign due to limited playing time, McGwire broke out the following season by leading the league with 49 long balls. Collectors recognized his raw power made him an exciting commodity. Pristine copies of his Score RC in mint condition have sold for over $300 given his fame from breaking the single season home run record.

Roberto Alomar had one of the best rookie seasons of any second baseman in MLB history. He won both Rookie of the Year and Gold Glove awards while hitting .290 for the San Diego Padres in ‘91. Alomar’s defensive abilities and hitting prowess made him a star right away. His #251 Score RC is one of the more sought after cards from the set due to his Hall of Fame career. High grade examples can sell for well over $150.

Dennis Eckersley had already been a 20 game winner earlier in his career, but 1991 marked his first season with the Athletics where he truly established himself as a lights-out closer. Eckersley saved 48 games and posted a minuscule 1.61 ERA to win the AL Cy Young and MVP awards, becoming the first reliever to ever win both prizes. His dominance and unique achievement made his #419 1991 Score RC very coveted. Near mint copies can be found for around $100-150.

while catcher Javy López didn’t make his MLB debut until 1993, collectors were high on his potential after he posted a .313 batting average with 23 home runs in AA ball in 1991 at just 19 years old. His aggressive approach and prodigious power for a backstop generated buzz. The #512 card in Score was Lopez’s first card released and a sign of things to come as he would slam 305 career home runs. high grade copies in mint condition sell for $75-100.

Omar Vizquel also debuted in the majors in ‘91 but didn’t receive much fanfare, getting just 31 at-bats for the Seattle Mariners. Collectors were impressed by the slick-fielding shortstop’s talents with the glove and hitting approach in the minors. He would go on to become one of the best defensive infielders ever while playing for 24 seasons. The #600 Score RC undervalued his eventual fame and success, with respectable near mint editions selling for $40-60 based primarily on his reputation.

Among the many 1991 Score rookie cards featuring players who went on to great careers like Larry Walker (#550 RC), David Justice (#424 RC), and Chuck Knoblauch (#304 RC), one of the more unexpectedly productive players was pitcher Brad Ausmus. Although he posted an uninspiring 4.97 ERA in his debut season splitting time between the pitchers mound and catching for the Astros, Ausmus became an 18 year veteran backstop. Now retired and a manager, near mint copies of his #622 Score RC can be found for around $30 given his longevity and prominence in the game for decades.

Catching prospect Bob Hamelin cracked the majors in 1991 after hitting .298 with 16 homers and 99 RBI in AA ball but didn’t receive much playing time. Collectors were taking fliers on his prodigious power and hitting abilities shown in the minors. Hamelin never panned out, appearing in just 13 big league games. But his #627 1991 Score RC remains a unique and collectible piece of cardboard for fans of obscure players that presented potential. Even graded copies can sell for under $20.

The 1991 Score baseball card set featured a strong rookie class headlined by future Hall of Famers like Jim Thome and Roberto Alomar. Collectors that obtained and held onto these rookie cards recognized they had pieces of history populated by budding superstars. The ‘91 Score rookies still resonate with fans today and provide a sense of nostalgia for the early 90s baseball era that launched the careers of many all-time great players.

1987 DONRUSS THE ROOKIES BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1987 Donruss The Rookies baseball card set was one of the most iconic and valuable rookie card releases in the modern era. Issued during the height of baseball card mania in the late 1980s, the 1987 Donruss set featured commons rookie cards of many future Hall of Famers and superstars. The design concept and quality photography made these cards highly collectible and desirable among fans of the time.

Donruss released The Rookies set as a 76-card master collection, separate from their flagship regular baseball card release. It focused exclusively on the top rookie players from the 1986 season, hand-picked by Donruss to highlight the emerging young talent around Major League Baseball. Fronts featured bold graphics and color photos of each player in action, while backs provided stats and biographical details from their rookie campaigns.

Some of the notable rookie cards in the 1987 Donruss The Rookies set included Ken Griffey Jr., Tom Glavine, David Justice, Barry Larkin, and Mark McGwire. Arguably the most iconic and valuable cards were of Griffey and McGwire. Ken Griffey Jr. was already gaining a reputation as the best all-around player in baseball as a rookie with the Seattle Mariners in 1987. His stat lines and incredible athleticism made him an instant star and his card one of the most sought-after in the set.

Mark McGwire also had an impressive debut season with the Oakland A’s in 1987, slugging 49 home runs and driving in 110 runs. As one of the original Big Men of baseball at 6’5″ and 240 pounds, McGwire burst onto the scene with prodigious power. Fans knew they were witnessing the emergence of sluggers who would eventually challenge baseball’s sacred home run records. Their Donruss Rookies cards were snapped up and recognized early on as having exceptional long term collectibility and value as investments.

The photography and design choices for the 1987 Donruss set also added to its appeal. Cards had vibrant primary colors and eye-catching graphics. Many photos featured the players mid-swing or wind-up in game action, presenting energy and excitement suitable for the booming baseball card culture. Bios highlighted impressive rookie stats in an engaging format. The quality and production values established the cards as premium collector pieces right from the start.

While considered commons in the direct sense compared to rare parallel printings or autograph/relic cards of today, unopened 1987 Donruss Rookies packs and boxes were increasingly hard to find as time went on through the late 1980s and 1990s. As Griffey, McGwire, Glavine, Larkin, and others blossomed into superstars and Hall of Famers, their rookie cards escalated dramatically in secondary market values. Graded versions can now fetch amounts reaching six or even seven figures, turning modest original investments made as a kid into small fortunes.

The 1987 Donruss Rookies cards were released during the peak of baseball card speculation. While the oversaturation of licensed products and speculation bubble led to an eventual crash in 1991, sets like this proved to stand the test of time far beyond a fleeting fad. They captured lightning in a bottle by featuring future legends at the earliest stages of their careers. Whether freshly pulled from a pack as a child or carefully preserved in a showcase vault as a prized asset, these classic rookie cards remain a touchstone for baseball fans, collectors, and investors even 35 years later. They established a historic template for desired specs in a modern sportscard that still holds true today.

In the current era of mass print runs and parallel products, the relatively modest original print run of the 1987 Donruss Rookies set at around 10 million makes sealed boxes quite rare. Even basic Ken Griffey Jr. and Mark McGwire commons in graded gem mint condition consistently sell for thousands of dollars each. The extensive archives of players and stats on the backs also lend these vintage cards continued significance for researchers. While other sets may have followed in Donruss’ concept, the 1987 release set the benchmark for capturing a who’s who of rising stars and pitchers in a single rookie card set that stands the test of decades.

Today, the 1987 Donruss Rookies cards remain among the crown jewels of the modern collector era 35 years later. Their combination of future Hall of Famers, iconic photography, sharp 1980s design sensibilities, and impeccable timing to feature stars at the earliest points in their careers collide to make these cards a touchstone. Whether considering their immense popularity at the time of release or the considerable sums mint condition examples sell for today, the 1987 Donruss Rookies set defined an era of baseball card culture and achievement that is still fondly remembered. They established a formula that shaped collecting standards and expectations for decades to come.

TOPPS 2023 SERIES 2 BASEBALL CARDS ROOKIES

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The Topps 2023 Series 2 baseball card set features some of the most promising rookie cards from the 2022 MLB season. Series 2 continues Topps’ tradition of highlighting top prospects and call-ups from the first half of the season who made their MLB debuts after Series 1 was released. This set gives collectors a chance to acquire rookie cards for players who are expected to be stars in the years to come.

Some of the most notable rookie cards in Topps 2023 Series 2 include Oneil Cruz, Spencer Strider, and Alex Faedo. Cruz, a highly-touted shortstop in the Pittsburgh Pirates system, finally got his callup in 2022 and immediately wowed with his impressive power and athleticism. Standing an astonishing 6-foot-7, Cruz brings a unique skillset to the position and could be a cornerstone for the Pirates rebuild. His Series 2 rookie card is already in high demand from collectors looking to get in early on what should be a true superstar.

Another breakout rookie was Spencer Strider of the Atlanta Braves. The flame-throwing righty debuted in May and immediately made an impact with his elite velocity and swing-and-miss stuff. Strider struck out over 200 batters in less than 150 innings as a rookie, establishing himself as a future ace. His dominance out of the Braves bullpen also helped them win the NL East. Strider’s impressive rookie campaign makes his Series 2 RC one of the safest long-term investments in the set.

Detroit Tigers’ righty Alex Faedo also earned a rookie card in Series 2. Once a top college pitcher at the University of Florida, Faedo battled injuries in the minors but showed why he was once a first round pick with a promising MLB debut late in 2022. While he may not have the ace ceiling of Strider, Faedo profiles as a solid mid-rotation starter if he can stay healthy. His card introduces collectors to another potential building block for the rebuilding Tigers.

In addition to those headliners, Series 2 features debut RCs for several other potential impact players like Seiya Suzuki (Cubs), James Triantos (Mariners), and Christian Roa (Rangers). Suzuki brought exciting offense to Wrigley Field in his first MLB season after starring in NPB. The lefty-hitting outfielder finished third in the NL Rookie of the Year voting. Suzuki’s Japanese fanbase alone makes his Topps RC a coveted piece.

James Triantos made a quick rise through the Mariners system, displaying promising power and defense in his first MLB stint. The athletic outfielder has a high ceiling and plays for a surging Seattle club. Christian Roa only made a handful of September appearances but continued building hype around his live arm and projection. The tall righty has the raw tools to be the next quality starter from Texas. Along with established prospects who debuted like Brennen Davis, Kevin Alcantara, and Josh Jung, these three 2023 Series 2 rookies offer excitement about potential future contributors.

While the headliners carry most of the hype, Series 2 always features cards for less-heralded players who end up defying expectations. Past examples include Cody Bellinger, Juan Soto, and Yordan Alvarez – players who exploded onto the scene. Some lotto ticket prospects in this year’s set that could develop into stars down the road include Chase Silseth (Angels), Caleb Kilian (Giants), and Nick Lodolo (Reds). Each showed flashes but still have development ahead. Their rookies can be acquired very affordably now and yield big returns if they blossom.

Another aspect that makes Series 2 exciting is the chance to find gem rookie autograph or memorabilia cards at retail. While the odds are long, hits like a Spencer Strider auto could hold immense long-term value given his budding ace status. Even a simple Cristian Roa patch card holds intrigue as a lottery ticket. The multi-lap auto permutations in Series 2 also allows for rare serial numbered parallels that drive value. This set rewards diligent breakers who hunt for the biggest chase cards at stores.

Beyond just the rookie class, Series 2 continues Topps’ tradition of sharp photography, iconic designs, and throwback templates that breathe new life into the flagship release. Veterans, prospects, managers, and more round out complete team sets. Parallel and insert sets additionally fuel the collecting hobby. Whether acquired as single cards or in retail blasters/hangers at MSRP, Topps Series 2 offers something for every type of collector at an affordable price point. Its blend of established stars, emerging talent, and discovery fun has sustained interest year after year.

In summary, Topps 2023 Series 2 showcases the top MLB debuts and rookies from the first half of 2022. Headlined by the likes of Oneil Cruz, Spencer Strider, and Alex Faedo, this set introduces collectors to promising young players that could become future hall of famers. Sleeper prospects, chase hits, and engaging set designs also reward those who invest now. As a snapshot of baseball’s next generation of stars, Series 2 rookie cards remain a staple for collectors pursuing long-term value and discovery. This year’s release looks to continue that tradition with another excellent rookie class.

1984 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS ROOKIES

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The 1984 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the all-time classic cardboard issues and is highly sought after by collectors today due to several highly noteworthy rookie cards included. Issued annually since 1938, Topps dominated the baseball card market for decades and their 1984 offering contained several future Hall of Famers and other notable players among the 792 total cards in the set.

One of the most iconic rookie cards in the entire hobby is that of Cincinnati Reds first baseman/outfielder Tony Perez. After a stellar 17-year career largely spent with the Big Red Machine of the 1970s, Perez was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2000. His rookie card depicts him as a member of the Montreal Expos and shows him batting left-handed. Due to the extreme popularity and success Perez achieved, along with the fact it was his true rookie season in the majors in 1964 at age 24, his 1984 Topps RC is one of the most valuable from the set, commonly graded at the PSA 9 or 10 level fetching prices upwards of $500.

Another highly sought after rookie card is that of Philadelphia Phillies hall of fame third baseman Mike Schmidt. Arguably one of the greatest right-handed hitters and power sources of all-time slammed 548 career home runs over a storied 19-year career entirely spent in Philadelphia from 1972-1989. His 1984 Topps rookie pays homage to his first full season in 1972 when he finished second in NL Rookie of the Year voting. Graded gem mint examples often sell for $300-400 given his epic career stats and three NL MVP awards he amassed.

A true “holy grail” card for collectors is the rookie of Boston Red Sox/Chicago White Sox designated hitter Harold Baines. Despite amassing over 3000 career hits and appearing in 6 All-Star Games from 1980-2001, Baines has never been elected into the Hall of Fame. His 1984 Topps RC remains elusive for collectors due to the extremely low print run Topps utilized. Often considered one of the most difficult cards in the entire set to locate in high grade, ungraded examples still pull in $100-150 prices. One that achieved the prestigious PSA 10 Gem Mint rating recently sold at auction for an astounding $2,780, a true testament to its extreme scarcity.

One of the biggest stars of the 1980s was Los Angeles Dodgers/Oakland Athletics pitcher Orel Hershiser. After early success with the Dodgers, he had a true breakout season in 1988 when he set the MLB record with 59 consecutive scoreless innings and led LA to a World Series title while winning both the Cy Young and World Series MVP. His 1984 Topps card is certainly one of the more iconic from the set as it depicts him pitching for the Dodgers with an over-the-top windup. Higher graded versions near the PSA 8-10 range can fetch $150-300 on the open market.

Another Dodger featured is a rookie card showing a then-unknown pitcher named Fernando Valenzuela. Little did anyone know at the time “Fernandomania” was about to take the city and country by storm starting in 1981. Sporting a lively windup and screwball pitch few had ever seen, Valenzuela captured the NL Rookie of the Year and Cy Young awards that season going 13-7 with a 2.48 ERA and 180 strikeouts in 192 innings pitched. In high grade this card is one of the true heavy-hitters from the 1984 set, with gem mint PSA 10s bringing in over $1000 at auction due to his cult status.

Other noteworthy rookies found include Oakland Athletics third baseman Carney Lansford, who hit over .300 seven times in his career and made three All-Star teams from 1981-1990. His 1984 Topps RC typically sells in the $40-80 range. Detroit Tigers pitcher Jack Morris had a breakout 1984 season and won 254 games from 1977-1994 while earning World Series MVP honors in 1991. Higher quality examples of his rookie card from a 9-10 grade can reach the $100-200 price point.

St. Louis Cardinals catcher Tom Herr had a lengthy 10-year career while making an All-Star team in 1987 and provides a low-end option to collect graded around a PSA 8 for under $10. Dodgers reliever Bob Welch has increased in popularity since authoring one of the rarest feats in baseball history by tossing a perfect game in 1990 after having been traded to the Oakland Athletics. His rookie card sells modestly for around $20-30. Seattle Mariners outfielder Greg Briley only played parts of three seasons but his ’84 Topps RC can be acquired for under $5 in lower grades.

The 1984 Topps baseball card set is loaded with stars both well known and relatively obscure that have increased greatly in demand and value by collectors in modern times. Headlined by the hugely significant rookie cards of Perez, Schmidt, Hershiser and especially Valenzuela, this issue will always be remembered as producing several true heavyweight rookie cards that stand tall among the most iconic and valuable of the entire vintage collecting scene. With patience and savvy, completing this classic 792-card set at affordable levels is still realistic, making it a fun and rewarding project for enthusiasts of the 1980s cardboard era.

2007 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS ROOKIES

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The 2007 Topps Baseball Card set featured several promising rookie cards that baseball card collectors were excited about. The rookie class of 2007 included future All-Stars and award winners like Ryan Braun, Dustin Pedroia, and Prince Fielder who would go on to have very successful Major League careers. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top rookies from the 2007 Topps Baseball set.

Ryan Braun (#185) – Braun had a phenomenal rookie season in 2007 batting .324 with 34 home runs and 97 RBI for the Milwaukee Brewers. He finished third in National League Rookie of the Year voting and helped spark a revival of Brewers baseball in Milwaukee. His rookie card remained a hot commodity among collectors for years. Braun went on to have six All-Star selections and win the 2011 NL MVP award cementing himself as one of the game’s top left fielders of his generation.

Dustin Pedroia (#223) – Already 25 years old as a rookie, Pedroia didn’t have the hype of some younger prospects but produced right away for the Boston Red Sox. He batted .317 in his first season and led the American League with 213 hits, winning Rookie of the Year honors. Pedroia would become the anchor of the Red Sox lineup and infield for over a decade, earning four All-Star nods and helping the team to World Series titles in 2007 and 2013. His leadership made him a fan favorite in Boston.

Prince Fielder (#360) – The son of former MLB slugger Cecil Fielder, Prince lived up to the family name by hitting .288 with 23 home runs in his rookie year with the Brewers. He finished second in Rookie of the Year voting to Pedroia. Fielder was one of the game’s most feared run producers during his nine-year MLB career, making two All-Star teams as a Brewer before finishing with the Detroit Tigers. He remains one of the most powerful hitters of his era with 319 career home runs.

Tim Lincecum (#387) – Already dominating in his first full season in the Giants’ rotation, Lincecum tossed 220 innings with a 3.00 ERA and notched 174 strikeouts to finish fourth in Cy Young Award voting as a rookie. ‘The Freak’ as he became known used an unorthodox delivery to baffle hitters for years with his blazing fastball. He would go on to win back-to-back Cy Young Awards in 2008-2009 establishing himself as one of the best pitchers of his generation.

Max Scherzer (#454) – More of a project as a young pitcher in the Arizona Diamondbacks system, Scherzer showed glimpses of promise in 12 starts as a rookie posting a 4-6 record but with 88 strikeouts in 82.2 innings. He flashed a mid-90s fastball and hard slider. After being traded to the Tigers, Scherzer evolved into an ace, earning three All-Star selections and winning the AL Cy Young award in 2013. He later pitched for the Nationals, winning another Cy Young and two World Series titles there.

Colby Rasmus (#504) – Selected with the 28th overall pick in the 2005 draft by St. Louis, Rasmus entered the majors at age 21 and batted .251 with 13 home runs in his rookie year playing both center field and first base. He twice led the National League in triples during his career spent mostly with the Blue Jays and Astros. Rashus displayed good athleticism and power but never fully lived up to his first-round draft status across nine seasons in MLB.

Andrew McCutchen (#512) – While he didn’t post huge numbers as a 21-year old rookie in 2007 with a .250 batting average, McCutchen flashed the five-tool skills that would make him a superstar. He swiped 14 bases that first season foreshadowing the type of impact player he would develop into for the Pirates. McCutchen earned five All-Star selections and an NL MVP award in 2013 before finishing his career with the Giants and Yankees, cementing his status as one of the best Pirates players of the modern era.

Justin Upton (#548) – Like Rasmus, Upton was a first-round draft pick in 2005 and made his MLB debut as a 19-year old with the Diamondbacks. He showed off incredible strength and speed for a teenager by belting 11 homers with 21 steals in his rookie campaign. Upton developed into a premier power-speed threat, making four All-Star teams over 12 seasons with five different franchises. He continued his career well into his 30s demonstrating longevity and durability.

The 2007 Topps Baseball Card rookie class featured many future All-Stars, MVP award winners, and even a few Cy Young recipients. Players like Braun, Pedroia, Fielder, Lincecum, and McCutchen established themselves as franchise cornerstones with the teams that originally drafted them. Meanwhile, Upton, Scherzer and Rasmus showed varying levels of fulfillment on their potential but all enjoyed lengthy MLB tenures. For collectors, several of these 2007 rookie cards proved to be wise long-term investments and remain highly sought after in the hobby. It was truly an excellent class of rookies that helped propel the sport forward.

BOWMAN BASEBALL CARDS 2023 ROOKIES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1987 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS ROOKIES

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The 1987 Topps baseball card set is renowned among collectors for featuring some of the most valuable and iconic rookie cards in the hobby’s history. Top rookies from the ’87 set like Barry Bonds, Tom Glavine, and Gregg Maddux would go on to have Hall of Fame careers and their rookie cards are highly sought after by collectors to this day.

One of the most popular rookie cards from 1987 Topps is that of Barry Bonds. As the 6th overall pick in the 1985 MLB draft by the Pittsburgh Pirates, Bonds made his MLB debut in 1986 but was still considered a rookie by Topps in 1987 since he didn’t exceed the rookie limits of 130 at-bats or 50 innings pitched in the previous season. Behind only Mike Schmidt on the focus list, Bonds’ rookie card shows him leaning on a bat with “BONDS” across the top in yellow. High-grade copies of this card in mint condition routinely sell for well over $1000 due to Bonds going on to compile a Hall of Fame career and break the all-time home run record.

Another sought after rookie from the ’87 set is Tom Glavine of the Atlanta Braves. The 30th overall pick in the 1984 draft, Glavine made his MLB debut in 1987 and went 13-5 with a 2.81 ERA for the Braves. His iconic rookie card features an action shot of Glavine pitching with the Braves script across the bottom. Like Bonds, Glavine thoroughly lived up to the hype of his rookie card by winning 305 games and 2 Cy Young awards over a Hall of Fame career. PSA 10 graded copies of his ’87 rookie routinely sell for $500-1000.

Another member of the 1987 rookie trio who had a Hall of Fame career is Atlanta Braves pitcher Gregg Maddux. Drafted in the 2nd round out of high school in 1984, Maddux made his MLB debut in September 1986 but had only 32 innings pitched so he was still eligible for Topps as a rookie in 1987. His card shows Maddux in a follow through pitching motion with the Braves logo across the bottom. Over 23 MLB seasons, Maddux won 355 games and captured 4 Cy Young awards, cementing the value of his ’87 Topps rookie card at the $300-600 range for high-grade copies.

In addition to the superstar trio of Bonds, Glavine, and Maddux, the 1987 Topps set featured several other notable rookie cards that remain popular with collectors today. Chicago Cubs phenomenon Andre Dawson had one of the most memorable rookie cards from the set after a monster season where he won the NL Rookie of the Year and MVP awards. His card showcases Dawson diving for a catch in front of Wrigley Field’s famous ivy walls. High-grade versions can fetch $60-100.

Cleveland Indians catcher Sandy Alomar Jr. also had a big rookie year as he hit .257 in 109 games while handling one of the league’s best pitching staffs. His slick defensive skills made his a 6-time All-Star and 3-time Gold Glover over a 17-year career. The retro style of his ’87 Topps rookie card, with Alomar crouching behind the plate, has become a fan favorite worth $15-30 for top-quality copies.

Another Indians player to debut in 1987 was catcher/first baseman Brook Jacoby. After being selected 7th overall in the 1983 draft, Jacoby got his first extended stint in the majors in ’87 and hit a solid .270 with 7 homers in 104 games. His card showcases Jacoby from the shoulders up in an Indians batting helmet. Although he never emerged as the superstar his draft position and rookie year suggested, Jacoby still had a 13-year MLB career and his ’87 Topps RC holds value at $5-15.

While position players dominated the rookie spectacle in 1987 Topps, a few pitchers besides Glavine and Maddux also had noteworthy debut campaigns. Cincinnati Reds righty Rob Dibble was arguably the hardest throwing relief pitcher in baseball during his 8-year career. In 1987, he struck out 95 batters in just 67.1 innings as a rookie. His Topps card portrays Dibble mid-windup and shows why he was nicknamed “The Closing Machine”. despite issues with control, it can sell for $20-40 in top condition.

Another hard throwing arm was that of San Francisco Giants reliever Bill Swift. As a rookie in 1987, Swift made 59 appearances out of the Giants bullpen and racked up 119 strikeouts against just 34 walks in 103.2 innings. His “Swift Relief” rookie card illustrates him going through his windup and is valued around the $8-15 range for pristine copies. While his career was cut short due to injury, Swift flashed immense promise during an impressive debut campaign.

The 1987 Topps baseball card set will always be renowned and collected for featuring the rookie cards of future Hall of Famers Barry Bonds, Tom Glavine, and Gregg Maddux. It also showcased several other notable rookies like Andre Dawson, Sandy Alomar Jr., and Rob Dibble who made memorable impressions during their debut seasons. For modern collectors and investors, high-grade versions of these iconic rookie cards continue to hold strong long-term value based on their players’ excellent MLB careers and lore within the hobby. The 1987 Topps set set the standard for postwar rookie card collecting mania that continues strong to this day.

1990 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS ROOKIES

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The 1990 Score baseball card set is considered one of the greatest rookie card crops of all time. While extremely iconic rookie cards were produced in the late 1980s, the 1990 Score set stands out as having an incredible collection of rookies that went on to have Hall of Fame careers. Let’s take an deeper look at some of the most notable rookies featured in this classic set.

Perhaps the most well-known and valuable rookie card in the 1990 Score set is that of Griffey Jr. Ken Griffey Jr. was one of the most anticipated prospects ever to reach the big leagues and his athleticism and smooth left-handed swing immediately captivated baseball fans. In his rookie year of 1989 with the Seattle Mariners, Griffey Jr. showcased breathtaking defense and hit .264 with 16 home runs and 47 RBIs. Baseball card collectors knew they had a future star on their hands.

Griffey Jr.’s 1990 Score rookie card, featuring him swinging a bat on the front, is one of the most iconic baseball cards ever produced. Even in low grades, this card brings in thousands of dollars nowadays. High grade Griffey Jr. rookies have reached astronomically high prices in the six-figure range. When factoring in his excellent career statistics and thirteen All-Star appearances, it’s easy to see why his rookie card is so coveted and valuable. At the time of printing, no one could predict Griffey Jr. would become the face of baseball in the 1990s, but collectors knew they had something special.

Another huge name making his rookie card debut in the 1990 Score set was Chipper Jones. Like Griffey Jr., Chipper Jones played his entire career for one franchise, starring for the Atlanta Braves from 1993-2012. Also drafted first overall in 1990, Jones spent some time in the minors before joining the Braves in 1993. He would go on to have a Hall of Fame career, featuring eight All-Star appearances and a NL MVP award in 1999 when he led the Braves to a World Series title. Jones holds the record for most career home runs by a switch hitter, finished with over 2500 hits and a career .303 batting average.

Chipper Jones’ 1989 minor league rookie card from Score has also gained significant popularity and value over the years. This was collectors’ first glimpse of the future superstar who would carry the Braves’ offense for decades. High grade Chipper Jones rookies can sell for over $1000. Like Griffey Jr., the combination of star power, career success and sole franchise tenure makes Jones’ early cards highly sought after.

The 1990 Score set also contained the rookie cards of notable starters Tom Glavine and John Smoltz, who along with Greg Maddux made up the dominant Atlanta Braves pitching rotation of the 1990s. Glavine went on to win 305 career games and two Cy Young awards during his time with Atlanta and the Mets. Smoltz pitched for 21 seasons, earning 213 wins and 154 saves while winning a Cy Young of his own. Both pitchers are considered locks for the Hall of Fame.

Even in low grades, early Glavine and Smoltz rookie cards carry value due to their impressive careers and status as integral parts of champion Braves teams. Collectors enjoy owning cards showing the early years of superstar pitchers before they blossomed into consistent aces. These rookie cards provide a unique historical context since many fans were not yet familiar with Glavine and Smoltz at the time of their first Score issues.

A few other notable rookies appearing for the first time in the 1990 Score baseball set include Jeff Bagwell, Derek Jeter, and Frank Thomas. Bagwell smacked 15 homers in his rookie season of 1991 en route to a career .297 batting average and 449 home runs as a Houston Astro. Jeter became baseball’s premier shortstop through the late 90s/early 2000s, amassing over 3000 hits and winning 5 World Series titles with the Yankees. Thomas was the 1990 AL MVP in his rookie year with the White Sox, going on to hit 521 home runs and produce like a Hall of Famer through his prime.

Each of these superstars – Griffey Jr., Chipper Jones, Glavine, Smoltz, Bagwell, Jeter, and Thomas – have cemented their places in the Baseball Hall of Fame. For collectors who purchased 1990 Score packs as teenagers, they unknowingly obtained the first ever cardboard reproductions of future legends. This creates special nostalgia surrounding these early issues, which still hold immense value on the vintage baseball card market thanks to stellar career accomplishments.

The combination of Hall of Fame talents, singular franchise tenures, iconic on-card images, and remembrances of a collector’s younger days all contribute to make the 1990 Score rookie cards so desirable and expensive today. This single release encapsulated many of the game’s biggest 1990s stars in their raw, early big league forms. For historians and investors alike, obtaining a complete set with the star rookies in high grades serves as a historical baseball artifact chronicling the early years of arguably the most gifted rookie class in card-making history. The legend and allure of 1990 Score lives on generations later due to the superstars it introduced us to during baseball’s golden age.

2013 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS ROOKIES

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The 2013 Topps Baseball card set featured many promising rookie cards that baseball card collectors were excited about. The 2013 rookie class had several players who went on to have great MLB careers. Some of the top rookies featured in the 2013 Topps set included Wil Myers, Jose Fernandez, Manny Machado, and Shelby Miller. This article will provide an in-depth look at some of the top rookies from the 2013 Topps Baseball card set.

One of the most highly sought after rookie cards from the 2013 Topps set was Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Wil Myers. Myers was considered one of the top prospects in all of baseball heading into the 2013 season. He was called up to the majors in June 2013 and immediately made an impact. Myers hit 13 home runs and posted an .838 OPS in just 53 games in his rookie season. His impressive debut made his 2013 Topps rookie card one of the hottest cards on the secondary market. The Myers rookie featured a clean photo of him in a Rays uniform and became a must-have for collectors. Many predicted a Hall of Fame caliber career for Myers based on his early success and that increased demand for his rookie card.

Another rookie who made a huge splash in 2013 was Miami Marlins pitcher Jose Fernandez. Fernandez had a dominant rookie season, going 12-6 with a 2.19 ERA and 187 strikeouts in 28 starts. He finished second in NL Rookie of the Year voting and fourth in Cy Young voting as well. The Fernandez rookie card in 2013 Topps captured him mid-delivery with an intense look on his face. Like the Myers rookie, the Fernandez was highly sought after by collectors. Tragically, Fernandez passed away in a boating accident in 2017 at the young age of 24, making his rookie card that much more valuable in the years since as a remembrance of his incredible talent and potential.

The Baltimore Orioles also had an exciting rookie in 2013 in third baseman Manny Machado. Machado made his MLB debut at just 20 years old in August 2012 but was still eligible for rookie status in 2013 Topps. The O’s were coming off a playoff season and had high hopes Machado could lock down third base for years to come. He didn’t disappoint in his first full season in 2013, hitting .283 with 14 home runs and 71 RBI while playing stellar defense. Machado’s smooth left-handed swing was captured perfectly in his 2013 Topps rookie card, which became a must-have for Orioles fans and collectors alike. Machado went on to have an All-Star career in Baltimore before signing a massive free agent deal with the San Diego Padres in 2022, making his rookie card an even better long term investment.

Another impact rookie pitcher in 2013 was St. Louis Cardinals righty Shelby Miller. Miller broke out with a 15-9 record and a 3.06 ERA in his first full season, finishing third in NL Rookie of the Year voting. His 2013 Topps rookie card showed Miller mid-windup with an intense stare. Miller continued to have success over his first few MLB seasons before his career was derailed by injuries. Still, his rookie card remained a popular one for Cardinals collectors given his early success and importance to the franchise. While Miller was ultimately not able to sustain his early success long term, his rookie card provided a affordable way for fans to remember his promising debut season.

In addition to the big name rookies highlighted above, the 2013 Topps set also included first Bowman Cards and rookie cards of players like Yasiel Puig, Michael Wacha, Hyun-Jin Ryu, Tony Cingrani, Nolan Arenado, and Matt Adams that have gone on to have solid MLB careers. The depth of rookies in the 2013 class made it an exciting year for the hobby. Many of these rookie cards from the 2013 Topps set have increased significantly in value in the secondary market in recent years as these players performances have matched or exceeded early expectations. The 2013 rookie class will likely be remembered as one of the best of the modern era and their inclusion in the 2013 Topps set makes it a highly collectible release for baseball card enthusiasts.

The 2013 Topps Baseball card set featured some truly elite rookies like Wil Myers, Jose Fernandez and Manny Machado that made immediate impacts in their debut seasons. Others like Shelby Miller and Nolan Arenado showed early promise of long careers ahead of them. The depth of talent and production from the rookies in 2013 created a unique collector demand for these rookie cards that remains strong to this day. While injuries and fluctuations in performance happened for some, these rookies made the 2013 Topps set one of the most exciting releases in recent memory and their cards remain a great investment area for collectors nearly a decade later.