Topps, a renowned name in the world of sports trading cards, has made a groundbreaking move by teaming up with former MLB player turned artist, Micah Johnson, to introduce an extraordinary series of baseball cards paying homage to the famed Negro Leagues. This innovative collaboration has brought to life the inaugural Topps Negro Leagues Baseball Card Set, a project that Johnson considers one of his most significant achievements. The series commenced with the grand reveal of a Satchel Paige card in Kansas City, marking the beginning of the “Road to Rickwood” initiative.
Continuing the momentum, a new card will be unveiled every week leading up to the highly anticipated Rickwood Classic, culminating in a special MLB game at Rickwood Field on June 20, 2024. This game, along with the card series, serves as a tribute to the oldest professional ballpark in the United States, once home to the legendary Birmingham Black Barons. To amplify the significance of this historic occasion, massive 24-foot tall replicas of each card will be exhibited at various MLB ballparks across the country.
Micah Johnson, the talented artist behind this extraordinary series, has seamlessly transitioned from his professional baseball career to establishing himself as a prominent artist with a vision to inspire and empower through his work. Johnson’s intricate, hand-drawn portraits of iconic Negro Leagues players showcased in the Topps series seamlessly blend artistic excellence with a deep-rooted historical reverence.
Aside from the base cards featuring these revered players, collectors will also have the opportunity to discover limited edition Numbered Parallel Cards in each print run. These exclusive parallels include the Silver Border (/99), Blue Border (/49), Purple Border (/25), Red Border (/10), Orange Border (/5), and the highly coveted Gold Border (/1). These unique variations add a layer of rarity and allure to these already prized collector’s items, escalating the excitement for enthusiasts aiming to complete their collection.
More than just a collection of cards, this series serves as a testament to the rich history and enduring legacy of the Negro Leagues, offering fans and collectors a chance to own a piece of art that encapsulates the spirit of these baseball greats. With new releases scheduled every Thursday leading up to June 20, enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting each installment of this monumental series that celebrates the unparalleled contributions of Negro Leagues players to the world of baseball.
