The highly anticipated 2024 Topps Series 2 is set to hit stores on June 12, adding another 350 base cards to the initial Series 1 collection. This expansion promises to introduce more players, rookies, and even some notable names missing from the first series, like the talented Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Fans can expect the new series to stay true to its winning formula by offering a range of parallels, short prints, and super short prints, building on the success of Series 1.
One of the most exciting highlights of the 2024 Topps Series 2 is the introduction of new inserts that will surely captivate collectors. Among these is a special short-printed set commemorating Ronald Acuna’s outstanding 40/70 campaign from the previous year. Additionally, fans can look forward to special All-Star cards from the iconic 1989 Topps Set, celebrating the 35th anniversary of the final release of the 1980s.
The cover star for Series 2 is the talented Juan Soto, setting the stage for an exciting collection. The release will offer two types of Hobby boxes for enthusiasts to choose from: traditional boxes with 20 packs of 12 cards each, and Jumbo boxes containing ten packs of 40 cards each. Both box variants will include a guaranteed autograph or relic card, along with silver bonus packs featuring chrome cards, numbered autographs, and exclusive parallels.
The 350-card base set featured in Series 2 encompasses a diverse range of content, including veterans, rookies, Future Stars, League Leaders, and Team Cards, all adorned with various types of parallels to entice collectors. Some of the notable parallels include the Gold Foil Parallel exclusive to Jumbo packs, the Rainbow Foil Parallel inserted at 1:10 packs, the numbered Gold Parallel limited to 2024 copies, and the Blue Holofoil Board Parallel numbered to 999. Additional rarities like the Purple Holofoil, Green Crackle Foil, Vintage Stock, Independence Day, and Black Parallels are also available exclusively in Hobby/Jumbo packs.
In addition to the base set, Series 2 introduces both new and returning inserts that add depth and excitement to the collection. Six new insert themes, including the coveted 40/70 insert honoring Ronald Acuna’s MVP season, are unveiled. Other new inserts like City to City, Around the Horn, and Covering the Field come with multiple parallels, ranging from Blue to Platinum, and even coveted Autograph Parallels for selected subjects. The classic 1989 Topps Baseball design makes a return, featuring new All-Star inserts showcasing the game’s best players and paying homage to the original 1989 release.
Returning insert sets from Series 1, such as Heavy Lumber, Social Media Follow Back redemption cards, Homefield Advantage, and hand-drawn Sketch cards exclusive to Hobby products, continue to offer collectors a diverse array of options. A new and highly sought-after insert, Platinum Performers, is introduced as a super short print, adding an extra layer of excitement to the set.
Relic cards and autographs remain a prominent feature in Series 2, with offerings like Baseball Stars Autographs and the new 1989 Topps Baseball Autograph Cards. These autograph cards include dual and triple autographs, along with one-of-one Platinum Parallels for the most dedicated collectors. The relic section includes Game-used swatches from City Connect jerseys and Major League Material cards, with parallel versions extending all the way to Platinum for those seeking the ultimate rarity.
In conclusion, the 2024 Topps Series 2 represents a thrilling advancement in baseball card collecting, blending beloved elements from Series 1 with new and exclusive inserts, autographs, and relic cards that will undoubtedly delight both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the hobby. Get ready to dive into this exciting new collection and add some gems to your card collection.