Topps, a renowned name in the world of trading cards, has joined forces with former Major League Baseball player Micah Johnson to create a groundbreaking series of baseball cards that pay tribute to the exceptional athletes of the Negro Leagues. This extraordinary collaboration marks the release of the first-ever Topps Negro Leagues Baseball Card Set – a project that Johnson proudly describes as one of his defining moments. The inaugural card featuring the legendary Satchel Paige was unveiled in Kansas City, in conjunction with the “Road to Rickwood” initiative.
The excitement doesn’t stop there. Each week leading up to the highly anticipated Rickwood Classic, a new card will be revealed, leading up to a special MLB game at Rickwood Field on June 20, 2024. This significant game and the accompanying card series are a heartfelt homage to the historic Rickwood Field, the oldest professional ballpark in the United States and former home of the Birmingham Black Barons. To amplify the reverence for this event, towering 24-foot replicas of each card will be exhibited at various MLB ballparks across the nation.
Micah Johnson, transitioning from his professional baseball career to start a new chapter as a prominent artist, infuses the Topps series with his artistic vision aimed at inspiring and empowering. His intricately hand-drawn portraits of legendary Negro Leagues players seamlessly blend artistic skill with a deep historical appreciation, capturing the essence of these trailblazing athletes.
Apart from the base cards, collectors have the opportunity to acquire limited edition Numbered Parallel Cards as part of each print run. These exclusive parallels add an extra layer of rarity and allure to these already coveted collector’s items, offering different border colors and limited print numbers, including Silver Border (/99), Blue Border (/49), Purple Border (/25), Red Border (/10), Orange Border (/5), and the elusive Gold Border (/1). These special features enhance the thrill of collecting and elevate the value of these unique pieces of sports memorabilia.
Beyond being a celebration of the profound history and enduring legacy of the Negro Leagues, this card series also provides fans and collectors with an exceptional chance to own a work of art that encapsulates the spirit and legacy of iconic baseball figures. With a new release scheduled every Thursday leading up to June 20, enthusiasts and collectors alike are eagerly awaiting each new addition to this historically significant series.
