In the world of sports memorabilia, collectors are buzzing about Tom Brady’s first “official” baseball card featured in the 2023 Bowman Draft Baseball set. However, it’s important to note that this isn’t the first time Brady has appeared on a baseball card issued by Topps.
Back in 2014, Topps Five Star Baseball included Brady in their autograph card collection. These cards, categorized as redemptions, were meant to be claimed by collectors in exchange for the actual autographed cards. However, after nine years, these redemptions remain unfulfilled, leaving collectors eagerly awaiting their arrival. It’s worth mentioning that NFL quarterbacks John Elway and Dan Marino, who were also drafted by MLB teams, were part of the original checklist.
The delay in releasing the actual autographed cards can be attributed to the fact that the 2014 Topps release was the last season in which Topps held the NFL and NFLPA licenses before Panini acquired exclusive rights. This shift in licensing may explain the holdup, but for collectors patiently waiting, the reasons behind the delay offer little consolation.
Now, in 2023, Tom Brady, having retired from football, and with an exclusive autograph deal with Fanatics (the current owner of Topps), finds himself featured in the Bowman Draft Baseball set. The set includes a total of 81 signed Brady cards, each with different versions such as the Gold Refractor (limited to 50 copies), Orange Refractors (limited to 25 copies), Red Refractors (limited to 5 copies), and a one-of-a-kind Superfractor. Some cards even come with unique inscriptions, adding an extra touch of collectability.
Interestingly, there is also a rare unsigned version of the card that portrays a young Brady in a Montreal Expos uniform. This card pays homage to when Brady was selected by the Expos as a catcher straight out of high school in the 18th round of the 1995 MLB Draft. However, Brady ultimately chose to pursue college football, which led him to his legendary NFL career.
Despite the excitement surrounding Brady’s first official baseball card, collectors are still curious about the fate of the 2014 Topps Five Star Tom Brady redemption cards. Inquiries have been made to Topps representatives regarding the production status of these cards, and any future updates will be eagerly shared with the collecting community.
As collectors eagerly await the fulfillment of the 2014 redemption cards and revel in the arrival of Brady’s first “official” baseball card, the world of sports memorabilia continues to showcase the enduring legacy of one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
