The 1989 Fleer baseball card set was one of the most iconic and collectible releases of the late 1980s. Issues by Fleer Corporation, the set highlighted many of the game’s greatest players from that era. While not as renowned as some previous Fleer releases, the ’89 cards still contained several highly coveted rookie cards and inserts that have stood the test of time. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most notable 1989 Fleer baseball cards.
Ken Griffey Jr. Rookie Card: Widely considered one of the greatest rookie cards of all-time, the Ken Griffey Jr. card from the ’89 Fleer set is arguably the most valuable card from that year. Griffey was one of the most talented young outfielders to enter the league in decades and collectors knew they had a future star on their hands. His smooth left-handed swing and effortless defense made him a fan favorite from day one. While it can be found in worn condition for a few hundred dollars, mint Griffey rookies have sold for over $100,000. Even today, it remains a must-have for any serious baseball card collector.
Greg Maddux Rookie Card: Although not as heralded as Griffey, Maddux went on to have a Hall of Fame career as one of the best pitchers of his generation. His’89 Fleer rookie is a more affordable option for collectors seeking a piece of history from that year’s set. While not in the same stratosphere as Junior’s card value-wise, decent condition Maddux rookies can still fetch well over $100. Finding one in pristine mint condition with strong centering could command $1,000 or more today.
Bo Jackson Card: One of the set’s most intriguing “what if” cards is the Bo Jackson issue from ’89 Fleer. By this point, Bo knew was already a huge star playing both football and baseball. A devastating hip injury in his second NFL season would ultimately end his promising baseball career after just 287 games. Still, his dynamic athleticism made him a fan favorite. Mid-grade Jackson cards trade in the $20-50 range, with gems reaching $150-300 depending on centering and condition.
Frank Thomas Rookie Card: The ’89 Fleer set included rookie cards for other all-time greats as well. “The Big Hurt” Frank Thomas broke in with the White Sox that year and went on to a Hall of Fame career. While not in the same class as Griffey or Maddux as a rookie, mint Thomas cards routinely sell for $75-150. Well-centered copies in gem mint 10 grade have even topped $500 when auction prices are high.
Kirby Puckett Card: Already an established star by 1989, Puckett’s smooth swing and elite defense in center field made him a fan-favorite for the Twins. While not a rookie card, copies of his ’89 Fleer issue still hold value due to Puckett’s enduring popularity. Mid-grade examples change hands for $10-25, with pristine mint copies fetching $50-100 or more from dedicated Puckett PC builders.
Roberto Alomar Rookie Card: Another great from the era beginning his career in 1989 was Hall of Famer Roberto Alomar. His smooth defense and potent left-handed bat made him a perennial All-Star for many years. While not in the same league as Griffey’s RC in terms of value, high-grade versions of Alomar’s rookie routinely sell in the $25-75 range. Strong-looking gems have even broken the $200 barrier at times.
Bret Saberhagen Card: The 1989 American League Cy Young Award winner and 1985 World Series MVP, Bret Saberhagen was entering his prime during this period. Copies of his ’89 Fleer issue tend to sell cheaply for a few dollars but high-quality examples can be found in the $10-20 range. For collectors seeking affordable stars from that era, Saberhagen remains a solid pitching option.
While 1986 and 1987 Fleer sets dominated the late 80s chase for many collectors, the 1989 issue still offers some iconic cards at more affordable prices today. Names like Frank Thomas, Greg Maddux, Roberto Alomar and others continue to bring respectability to the set, with true gems like the Griffey and Bo Jackson cards retaining their luster. For fans of 80s baseball memorabilia, digging through a box of 1989 Fleer is always a fun nostalgic trip down memory lane.
