Topps, the renowned sports memorabilia company, is generating excitement among fans and collectors with its upcoming release of the 2023 Bowman Draft Baseball collection. However, what sets this collection apart is the unexpected inclusion of former NFL star, Tom Brady. Known for his incredible football career, Brady’s multi-sport talent in high school will be celebrated in these unique baseball cards.
In a surprising move, Topps showcases Brady on these cards wearing a Montreal Expos jersey. The cards pay homage to Brady’s selection by the Expos in the 18th round of the draft before he decided to pursue football at the University of Michigan. This nod to his alternate sports path brings a refreshing twist to the collection.
Among the various cards in the series, one has already gained significant attention. It features a young Brady with an inscription that humorously suggests that if baseball didn’t work out, football was always an option for him. This playful nod to his football prowess adds an amusing touch. Additionally, there is a French inscription on the card to pay tribute to the Montreal Expos, adding a special touch for fans.
However, the highlight of this collection is an autographed card numbered 12/50, representing Brady’s iconic jersey number. This limited edition card is already creating a buzz among collectors. In fact, a private collector has reportedly offered an astounding $500,000 for this exclusive piece. Alongside this rare edition, there is also a coveted 1-1 SuperFractor auto card, increasing the collectability and allure of the collection.
What makes this release even more intriguing is the fact that Brady is the last Expos draft pick to retire from professional sports. After 2004, the Expos relocated to Washington, D.C., and became the Nationals. Thus, these cards not only celebrate Brady’s multi-sport skill but also commemorate the Expos’ history as a franchise.
For avid collectors and enthusiasts, the 2023 Bowman Draft will be available in two formats: Hobby and Jumbo. The Hobby format offers three autographs per box, while the Jumbo format provides a generous five autographs. Fans can look forward to the official release date on Tuesday, December 12th. However, some lucky individuals have already stumbled upon the cards, as a few boxes have been spotted, with Hit Factory Sports Cards in Arizona unveiling a non-signed Brady card.
Collectors and fans alike can’t contain their excitement as Brady’s autographed cards have already begun to surface on popular online marketplace eBay. This early availability adds to the anticipation and eagerness to get their hands on these unique pieces of memorabilia.
In conclusion, Topps has surprised the sports world with their inclusion of Tom Brady in the 2023 Bowman Draft Baseball collection. By featuring Brady donning a Montreal Expos jersey, these cards celebrate his multi-sport talent and pay homage to the Expos’ legacy. With autographed cards and rare editions, this collection has already captured the attention of collectors, with a significant offer made for the prized numbered card. The official release on December 12th promises to be an exciting event for sports enthusiasts and collectors eager to add these unique pieces to their treasured collections.
