Top MLB Teams with Surging Sports Card Value

As the baseball season kicks into high gear, collectors have zeroed in on several MLB teams whose sports card value and demand have spiked in the last 60 days. The Dodgers with Ohtani, Mets with Soto, Braves, Orioles with Holliday, and Mariners lead the way. This report highlights the top 10 trending teams (focused on Bowman and Topps card products). It examines the factors behind their surge.

From price jumps and volume upticks to the players (modern stars, hot rookies, and even legends) driving the market. We’ll also review popular card sets/parallels on the rise, recent record-breaking sales, and the on-field performances or historic milestones fueling these trends.

Summary of Top Trending Teams Sports Card Value (Past 60 Days)

To set the stage, the table below provides an overview of the 10 teams. It displays some key highlights of their recent card market momentum:

Table: Overview of teams with upward card market trends (last 60 days), their key player drivers, and notable card highlights. Each of these teams’ card markets has seen notable price increases or record sales recently. Consequently, driven by on-field success, star power, or prospect hype. This is installment one. Below we dive into each team in detail.

Sports Card Value by Team in Detail

1. Los Angeles Dodgers – Ohtani Mania and Rising Stars

Shohei Ohtani’s move to Los Angeles has supercharged Dodgers card demand. The image above shows a 2024 Topps Dynasty Black 1-of-1 patch autograph card commemorating Ohtani’s 50–50 season (50 HR & 50 SB) with the Dodgers – this exact card sold for over $1.07 million at auction, underscoring the frenzy around Ohtani’s cards.

Overall Market Sports Card Value Trend

The Dodgers’ card market has exploded upward in the past two months. Chiefly thanks to the blockbuster signing of Shohei Ohtani in the offseason. Collectors immediately drove up prices and trading volume for Dodgers cards. Many Ohtani cards in a Dodgers uniform have spiked in value. For example, his 2025 Topps Series 1 SSP “Dancing Dodgers” variation increased +14.3% in the last 30 days.

The overall volume of Dodgers card sales also surged after the signing (one 24-hour period of Ohtani card sales outpaced the combined sales of stars like Judge and Tatis!). Simply put, demand and prices are up across the board for Dodger cardboard.

Key Players Driving Sports Card Value Demand

Shohei Ohtani is the primary catalyst. The two-way superstar joined L.A. on a record $700M deal. And he promptly delivered an historic season (becoming the first player ever with 50 HR and 50 SB in one year), As a result, achievements that sent his card prices into orbit. His earlier cards (e.g. 2018 Bowman Chrome and Topps Update rookies) and new Dodgers-themed cards alike are in huge demand.

Besides Ohtani, Mookie Betts (an MVP-caliber mainstay) and Freddie Freeman also bolster the market. Both had stellar 2024 seasons, and their cards (like Betts’ 2014 Bowman 1st and Freeman’s 2011 Topps Update RC) have seen steady appreciation. Even franchise legend Clayton Kershaw’s key cards remain sought-after as he adds to his Hall-of-Fame resume. Overall, a combination of a megastar acquisition (Ohtani), an already strong roster of stars, and a massive fan base has put the Dodgers atop the hobby hot list!

Trending Card Sets & Parallels

2025 Topps Series 1 Dodgers cards are a hot item – notably Ohtani’s first Dodgers flagship card and its parallels. Collectors have been chasing the SSP “Dancing Dodgers” image variation of Ohtani, which as noted jumped significantly in value. High-end Ohtani inserts like the 2025 Topps “Heavy Lumber” SSP (showcasing him with L.A.) have fetched hundreds of dollars.

Meanwhile, older Bowman Chrome cards of Ohtani in an Angels uniform are also spiking simply due to his continued heroics. His 1st Bowman (2018) and rare refractors are seeing renewed interest. Additionally, the 2024 Topps Chrome MVP buyback program (for which Ohtani is eligible after his award wins) has put a premium on Ohtani’s 2024 Topps Chrome base/refractors (redeemable for hobby store credit).

Lastly, keep an eye on upcoming rookie cards. Japanese pitching phenom Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki also signed with L.A., and his first MLB cards (likely 2025 Bowman/Topps) are highly anticipated.

Notable Recent Sales

The Dodgers have produced some eye-popping auction results lately. Most notably, a Shohei Ohtani Topps Dynasty Black 1/1 autographed patch card (featuring a logo patch from his pants and celebrating his 50–50 feat) just sold for more than $1,067,500 at auction – instantly one of the priciest modern baseball cards ever. This sale underscores how Ohtani’s Dodgers memorabilia has reached a new stratosphere. Another milestone: a 2024 Topps Chrome Ohtani Superfractor (1/1) sold privately for $182,000 (reported in hobby circles). Hence, reflecting sky-high confidence in his market.

Even non-Ohtani cards are strong! For example, a Jackie Robinson 1952 Topps PSA 9 (a vintage Dodgers grail) sold for over $500k recently, showing that Dodgers legend cards remain blue-chip. In sum, whether it’s modern or vintage, anything Dodgers is commanding a premium right now.

Player Performance / Historical Angles

The convergence of historic performance and team success is driving this trend. Ohtani’s unprecedented 50 HR / 50 SB campaign (in 2024) and subsequent NL MVP award made his cards a must-have. Especially now with the spotlight of the L.A. market. The Dodgers are also perennial contenders (they bolstered further by adding Ohtani and other pieces). So collectors are banking on more postseason accolades (which often boost card prices).

Historically, Dodgers legends entering Hall of Fame discussions impact the market – e.g. Fernando Valenzuela’s jersey retirement and HOF buzz gave a bump to his 1981 Topps rookie. And Kirk Gibson’s iconic 1988 WS homer anniversary saw renewed interest in his cards. All these factors create a perfect storm of hype around the Dodgers in the hobby. This team tops our list as their cards are consistently trending up in both value and demand in early 2025.

2. New York Mets – Soto’s Arrival Sparks Sports Card Value Surge

Overall Market Sports Card Value Trend

Mets’ sports card value has seen a rapid upswing in recent weeks. Directly tied to the blockbuster arrival of Juan Soto. In fact, the hobby reaction was immediate. In the 24-hour period after Soto’s record $765M contract was announced, sales of Soto cards totaled $14,700. Hence, more than the combined sales of Shohei Ohtani, Aaron Judge(eBay), and Fernando Tatis Jr. in that span.

This frenzy reflects both a volume and price surge. According to Card Ladder data, Soto’s overall card market cap jumped +5.1% literally overnight after the signing (an annualized rate of 1,825%!). Over the past year, Soto’s index is up over 10%. However, the bulk of that gain came in the recent signing bump. In short, Mets card demand is booming. Reversing what had been a quieter market – collectors are now enthusiastically investing in Mets cards, anticipating big things from the team’s new superstar and big-spending ownership.

Key Players Driving Sports Card Value Demand

Juan Soto is the clear catalyst behind the Mets’ card market boom. Already a hobby favorite, his 15-year move to New York sent his cards soaring. Soto’s market was strong back in Washington—his 2018 rookies rivaled Ohtani and Acuña for top chase status. Now in a Mets uniform, his ceiling looks even higher. Key cards like his 2016 Bowman Chrome 1st auto (a Red Refractor PSA 7 sold for $273,000) and 2018 Topps Update rookie (with over 23,000 PSA 10s) remain extremely liquid. Since the trade, rarer Soto autos and parallels have climbed steadily.

Beyond Soto, several other Mets are getting hobby love. Francisco Álvarez had a breakout 2024 with 25+ homers, boosting demand for his 2022 Bowman Chrome prospects and 2023 Topps Chrome rookie autos. Pete Alonso remains a fan favorite. His 2019 Topps Chrome Update rookie is a staple, and his market moves with trade or extension rumors. Kodai Senga gained steam after a strong rookie year—his 2023 Topps Chrome rookies are especially popular in Japan. Vintage Mets still matter too. A 1967 Tom Seaver rookie PSA 10 sold for $344,000, a record for any Mets card. Soto now joins that elite club of hobby headliners.

Trending Card Sets & Parallels

Mets fans finally got Soto cards in blue and orange in 2025 Topps Series 1. His base card is a marquee draw. A special Topps NOW card from the offseason also sold quickly. Bowman is joining in too, with a 2025 insert set featuring Anime-style Soto art generating buzz. His 2025 “Stars of MLB” insert is another early favorite.

Soto’s Nationals-era cards have surged again—his 2018 Chrome Update refractors and 2019 Heritage action variations are back near 2021 highs. Álvarez cards are trending too, especially his low-numbered autos and parallels. If Topps skipped Soto from early 2025 sets, his flagship Mets debut might appear in 2024 Update, making that a set to watch.

Prospect-wise, Kevin Parada and Jett Williams (both 2022 Bowman Draft) have some momentum, but Soto is still the main event.

Notable Recent Sales

Several recent sales highlight Soto’s momentum. His 2018 Bowman Chrome Orange Refractor Auto /25 (BGS 9.5) sold for $30,000 in late 2024, around the time trade rumors were swirling. A 2023 Topps Finest Superfractor 1/1 auto from his Padres stint sold for nearly $10,000 just before the trade—likely a bet on his Mets bump

Since signing, Soto’s mid-tier cards have risen too. His 2018 Topps Update PSA 10 went from ~$150 to over $200. In terms of card market cap, Soto now ranks just behind Trout(eBay) and Ohtani—an elite group. This signals that collectors see Soto as a future New York legend.

On the vintage side, a 1968 Nolan Ryan(eBay)/Jerry Koosman Mets rookie sold for ~$14,000 in January. Even classic Mets cards are catching fire.

Player Performance / Historical Relevance

The Mets’ card surge is somewhat speculative, banking on future performance. Juan Soto is just 26 and already on a Hall of Fame trajectory – his elite plate discipline and power draw comparisons to legends like Ted Williams. Collectors are betting that in New York (under owner Steve Cohen’s deep pockets) Soto will produce MVP seasons and possibly bring a title to Queens (the franchise’s first since 1986).

There’s also historical significance: if Soto continues his current pace, he could challenge the 600+ HR club (as some analyses note), which would cement his cards as all-time greats.

All told, the Mets have transformed into a hobby powerhouse overnight, thanks to Soto’s arrival and a roster now filled with collectible talent. The next 60 days could see even more growth if Soto starts hot in New York.

3. Atlanta Braves – MVP Seasons and Championship Core Fueling Sports Card Value Demand

Overall Market Sports Card Value Trend

The Braves’ card market has surged, fueled by a dominant 2024 season and a roster full of hobby favorites. Atlanta ended the year with one of the best offenses in MLB history, pushing both modern and vintage Braves card prices higher. Ronald Acuña Jr. was unanimously named 2023 NL MVP, giving his already hot market another boost. Many of his key cards rose in value, and Topps launched a special 2023 Chrome buyback program, encouraging collectors to chase his cards.

The overall Braves index has climbed steadily, with spikes tied to player milestones. Bottom line: Braves cards are on fire, driven by elite performance and young star power.

Key Players Driving Sports Card Value Demand

Ronald Acuña Jr. leads the charge. His 2023 season was historic (first-ever 40 HR / 70 SB) and earned him the NL MVP. He’s been a hobby favorite since his debut, and his 2018 Topps Update #US250 PSA 10 has rebounded to near-peak prices. His 2017 Bowman Chrome 1st auto remains a grail—one Superfractor 1/1 PSA 10 sold for $430,000 in 2023, a record for any Acuña card.

Matt Olson also made waves by breaking the Braves’ single-season HR record (54), spotlighting his 2017 rookie cards. His autos from Braves sets surged as fans took notice.

Spencer Strider, the MLB strikeout leader in back-to-back years, has driven demand for his 2020 Bowman Draft autos and 2022 rookies.

Michael Harris II (2022 NL ROY) and Austin Riley add depth—Harris’s 2022 rookies are still hot in Atlanta, while Riley’s 2019 cards spike during hot streaks.

On the vintage side, legends like Hank Aaron, Eddie Mathews, and Chipper Jones keep collector interest strong. The Braves offer both current stars and iconic Hall of Famers—making their card market uniquely broad.

Trending Sets & Parallels

Acuña’s 2018 cards are heating up again, especially Topps Update and Topps Chrome rookies. The 2023 MVP buyback caused a November rush on his Chrome base cards.

Olson’s 2017 Bowman Chrome 1st and Topps Update rookies saw a bump after his 50+ HR season—low-pop parallels like Black /66 now sell at a premium.

2022 Braves rookies are hot too. Strider’s 2022 Topps Chrome autos and Harris’s 2023 Series 1 RC are in demand.

2023 Topps Chrome Update introduced “Rookie Debut Patch” autos—AJ Smith-Shawver had one. These unique 1/1 patches are becoming chase cards.

Prospect-wise, collectors are targeting 2023 Bowman Draft Hurston Waldrep and 2022 Bowman Chrome Vaughn Grissom autos.

Low-numbered Braves parallels across the board are strong sellers—team success boosts even lesser-known players’ values.

Notable Recent Sales

Acuña’s 2017 Bowman Chrome Superfractor Auto (BGS 9.5) sold privately for $430,000—his all-time high and among the top for any active player not named Trout or Ohtani.

A Hank Aaron 1954 Topps rookie PSA 8 fetched $192,000 in 2024, with modern Braves hype and the 70th anniversary of 1954 Topps contributing.

Strider’s 2022 Topps Chrome Platinum Red Auto /5 sold for ~$2,000, proving elite pitchers can move the needle.

Olson’s 2014 Bowman Chrome Orange Auto (as an A’s prospect) hit ~$1,100—double its pre-season price.

Rare Braves inserts also spiked—Acuña’s 2023 Chrome Team Logo SSP jumped from ~$100 to over $500. From high-end grails to mid-tier hits, Braves cards are thriving.

Player Performance / Historical Relevance

Performance is the driver. The Braves’ young core powered a 2021 title and posted huge numbers in 2023—Acuña’s 40–70, Olson’s HR record, Strider’s Ks. Collectors love records. Acuña’s 40/70 sparked a Topps Now card with over 6,000 printed, and related cards flew.

Dynasty potential adds fuel—many believe this Braves team could win multiple rings.

Historically, Atlanta’s hobby roots run deep: legends like Aaron, Maddux, Glavine, and Chipper keep the market strong. 2024 also marked the franchise’s 150th anniversary. Topps commemorated it, subtly boosting visibility.

In short: record-setting players, a winning team, and a rich history have made Braves cards among the hottest in the hobby today.

4. Seattle Mariners – – Julio’s Rise Meets Ichiro’s Hall Glory

Overall Market Sports Card Value Trend

The Mariners’ card market is red-hot. Julio Rodríguez’s 2024 breakout and Ichiro’s 2025 Hall of Fame induction have collectors all in.
Over the last 60 days, both player markets have surged. Julio’s late-season heroics reignited his card prices. Ichiro’s near-unanimous Hall vote (99.7%) sent his rookies and inserts flying.

With a superstar now and a legend being honored, Mariners cards are booming.

Key Players Driving Sports Card Value Demand

Julio Rodríguez is the current king. The 23-year-old put up a monster 2024, pairing power, speed, and charisma. Collectors see him as a future MVP—and treat his cards accordingly. His 2019 Bowman Chrome 1st autos are grails. One Red Refractor /5 (non-auto) sold for $22,400. His 2022 rookie autos (Topps Chrome, Dynasty, Five Star) regularly top $1,000. A 2022 Dynasty patch auto /5 PSA 10 sold for $6,055.

Ichiro Suzuki is the other major driver. With his HOF induction coming in July 2025, demand for his 2001 rookie cards is way up.
A 2001 Ultimate Collection auto RC PSA 10 sold for $207k before the HOF news.
Now, more affordable cards—2001 Topps Chrome Traded, Bowman Chrome—are moving fast.
Ken Griffey Jr. cards are riding the wave too. His 1989 Upper Deck rookie in PSA 10 recently hit $3,200.
Prospects like Harry Ford and former young gun Jarred Kelenic have niche followings, but this surge is all about Julio and Ichiro.

Trending Card Sets & Parallels

2019 Bowman Chrome is the Julio set. His 1st Bowman Chrome autos and colored refractors (Orange /25, Blue /150, etc.) are getting top dollar. A BGS 10 Orange auto /25 is rumored to be worth five figures. His 2022 Topps Update and Chrome rookies are trading heavily—especially the Sapphire RC and short prints. 2022 Topps Chrome Platinum “1953 refractor” Julio RC is a sleeper hit due to low print run and retro flair.

Ichiro’s 2001 rookies (Topps, Bowman Chrome, SP Authentic) are hot again. His Topps Now HOF election card had a 21,242 print run—reselling for $40–50 (was $12). 2025 Topps Series 1 features an Ichiro “Call to the Hall” insert—popular among Mariners fans.

2023 Bowman’s Best has a triple auto of Julio/Ichiro/Griffey—an iconic Mariners chase card.

Prospect-wise, collectors are watching 2023 Bowman Draft for names like Colt Emerson—but that’s niche compared to the Julio–Ichiro hype.

Notable Recent Sales

Julio’s 1st Bowman Chrome Orange Auto /25 (BGS 9.5) sold for $18,000 in late 2024. His Chrome Superfractor 1/1 is estimated to be worth $100k+ if it ever hits auction.

chiro’s 2001 SP Authentic “Future Watch” /50 PSA 10 sold for $40,590. A 2001 Bowman Chrome Gold Refractor /99 PSA 10 once sold for $43k—likely worth more now.

Griffey’s 1989 Upper Deck RC PSA 10 jumped from $2,000 to $3,200 recently—boosted by Mariners buzz. Even Ichiro’s Topps Now HOF card flipped 3–4x from retail—easy profit for bulk buyers.

Performance & Hobby Relevance

Julio dazzled in late 2024—a 17-hit stretch over 4 games, 30+ HRs, 30+ SBs, highlight-reel plays. He’s a personality, a performer, and the face of the Mariners. Collectors love players who stuff stat sheets and show charisma—Julio does both. If Seattle makes the playoffs, expect another spike in his cards.

Ichiro’s legacy speaks for itself—4,367 hits, global icon, now Hall of Famer. His induction is pushing collectors to lock in high-grade 2001 rookies before July. Topps is keeping him in the mix too—with inserts and tributes that tie past to present.

Add in Griffey nostalgia, and Mariners cards hit three generations of collectors. Bottom line: Julio’s rise + Ichiro’s HOF = Seattle hobby gold.

5. Baltimore Orioles – Youth Explosion Sparks a Hobby Revival

Overall Market Sports Card Value Trend

The Orioles are one of the hottest teams in the card market. Their young core led the AL in wins in 2024, and collectors took notice.
Over the past 60 days, Orioles cards have jumped across the board. Award wins, call-ups, and playoff contention all fueled the fire.
Baltimore went from hobby sleeper to spotlight. Demand is strong—from rookies to prospects to legends.

Key Players Driving Sports Card Value Demand

Gunnar Henderson leads the charge. He won AL Rookie of the Year in 2023 after a 28-HR season. His 2023 Topps Update rookie PSA 10 jumped from $10–15 to ~$25. His 2019 Bowman Chrome 1st autos, especially colored refractors, doubled last fall.

Adley Rutschman is the face of the franchise. An All-Star and Silver Slugger, he finished top 6 in MVP voting in 2023.
His 2019 Bowman Draft 1st autos are back over $500 in PSA 10. His 2023 Topps Series 1 RC (card #1) is a collector favorite.

Jackson Holliday is the prospect centerpiece. The No. 1 overall prospect in 2024 got a brief MLB call-up in April 2025.
His 2022 Bowman Draft 1st autos sports card value is top-tier. Base PSA 10s are $600+, and parallels (Red Lava /5) have sold privately in five figures.

Others making trending sports card value noise: Anthony Santander (30-HR power) and Heston Kjerstad (debuted late 2024).
Legends like Cal Ripken Jr. are seeing more traffic. His 1982 Topps Traded PSA 10 recently cleared $5,000.

Trending Card Sets & Parallels

2023 Topps Series 1 features Adley’s RC. It’s card #1 in the set, and even base versions carry a premium. His Gold /2023 PSA 10 sold for ~$300. Rainbow Foils and parallels are in high demand.

2023 Topps Series 2 and Update brought Gunnar Henderson rookies. His Series 2 base RC PSA 10 is around $25. Rare parallels (Mother’s Day /50) have hit $400+.

2022 Bowman Draft is key for Holliday. His 1st Bowman Chrome base auto is $300–400 raw, $600+ graded. A Red Refractor non-auto PSA 9 sold for ~$10,000 in 2024. Topps Now printed a 2024 Holliday “Call-Up” card—43,647 copies. One of the highest print runs ever, showing massive demand.

2024 Bowman’s Best Triple Auto (Holliday, Gunnar, Adley) is a dream card for Orioles fans—Gold /50 and Orange /25 versions selling for hundreds to thousands.

Vintage Orioles (Ripken, Palmer, Brooks) sports card value are seeing small bumps. Not booming—but getting revisited.

Notable Recent Sales

Gunnar’s 2019 Bowman Chrome Orange Auto /25 BGS 9.5 sold for ~$2,200 post-ROY. Adley’s 2023 Topps Chrome Orange Auto /25 PSA 10 sold for ~$1,500.

Holliday’s Red Refractor 1st Bowman PSA 9 (non-auto) hit $10,000. His Bowman Chrome base autos continue to sell well even after his return to the minors.

Ripken’s 1982 Topps Traded RC PSA 10 sold for $5,040—an uptick from recent years. Jim Palmer’s 1966 Topps RC PSA 9 recently sold for over $14k.

A dual auto of Adley & Gunnar from 2023 Five Star hit $800+ on the secondary market.

Performance & Hobby Relevance

Baltimore’s hobby rise is performance-driven. Henderson’s 6+ WAR rookie season validated the hype. Adley is already a top-tier catcher—drawing comparisons to Posey and Mauer. The Orioles’ 101-win season in 2024 turned them into true contenders. Playoff exposure in 2025 could send this market to another level.

Holliday’s rapid climb and elite pedigree (Matt Holliday’s son) keep prospectors buzzing. The team’s mix of youth and winning mirrors past hobby darlings—like the 2015 Cubs or 2017 Astros.

Ripken and other Hall of Famers add depth to the brand. Some collectors are chasing both eras. In short: young stars + on-field success + franchise history = a full-blown Orioles hobby renaissance.

Best MLB Teams Sports Card Value Conclusion

These top teams – from the Dodgers’ superstar-fueled surge to the Brewers’ prospect-driven ascent – exemplify the diverse ways a franchise’s sports cards can ignite in value and demand.

Whether it’s a championship run, an MVP season, or the next big rookie debut, the last 60 days have shown the hobby rewards both on-field success and future potential. Collectors are eagerly following each of these team’s storylines, cracking packs and scouring auctions for the next key card – be it a rookie short print, a coveted prospect auto, or a championship parallel.

The MLB card market is dynamic, and right now these ten teams sit at the forefront of that excitement. Each team’s section above offers a snapshot of why their cards are trending up – from record-breaking sales to remarkable player feats – giving hobbyists plenty of insights as they decide where to focus their collecting (or investing) efforts in this vibrant period for baseball cards.