Topps is gearing up for the much-anticipated release of its 2023 Bowman Draft Baseball collection, and they’re introducing an unexpected twist by featuring none other than former NFL star Tom Brady. Known for his football prowess, Brady’s inclusion in this unique series pays tribute to his high school days as a multi-sport athlete. The cards showcase Brady donning a Montreal Expos jersey, commemorating his selection by the Expos in the 18th round of the draft before he pursued a career in football at the University of Michigan.
Among the 81 autographed cards of Brady in this collection, one card has already made waves. Social media buzz erupted when a glimpse of this particular card was shared. It features Brady with an inscription hinting at his alternate sports path, humorously suggesting that if baseball didn’t work out, he had football as a backup option. Adding a touch of French flair, the card also includes an inscription honoring the Expos.
The highlight of the collection is an autographed card numbered 12/50, a clear nod to Brady’s iconic jersey number. This particular card has already garnered significant attention, with reports of a private collector offering an astounding $500,000 for it. Additionally, there is a rare 1-1 SuperFractor auto card that is sure to attract serious collectors looking for the ultimate rarity.
What makes Brady’s inclusion in this collection particularly interesting is the fact that he holds the distinction of being the last Expos draft pick to retire from professional sports. The Expos eventually relocated to Washington, D.C., and were rebranded as the Nationals after the 2004 season. Thus, Brady’s appearance in the Expos jersey serves as a nostalgic reminder of a bygone era in baseball history.
For avid collectors, the 2023 Bowman Draft will be available in two formats: Hobby and Jumbo. The Hobby format guarantees three autographs per box, while the Jumbo format ups the ante with five autographs. The official release date is set for Tuesday, December 12, but some lucky collectors have already stumbled upon boxes, with Hit Factory Sports Cards in Arizona unveiling a non-signed Brady card.
Meanwhile, Brady’s autographed cards are already making appearances on popular online auction platforms like eBay, causing a frenzy among fans and collectors alike. With the immense popularity of both Brady and the Expos, these limited-edition cards are expected to sell out quickly, adding to their appeal and value.
In conclusion, Topps has surprised the collecting community with the inclusion of Tom Brady in its 2023 Bowman Draft Baseball collection. Brady’s commemorative cards in his Montreal Expos jersey serve as a unique homage to his high school days as a talented multi-sport athlete. As collectors eagerly await the official release, the buzz surrounding Brady’s autographed cards continues to grow, with fans and collectors anxiously vying for these limited-edition treasures.
