The 2025 Topps Series 1 Baseball set has officially named three-time MVP Shohei Ohtani as its No. 1 card, a fitting choice for the global superstar. Since 2016, fans have been able to vote for the player who leads off the set, and this year, Ohtani was the overwhelming favorite.
This news follows the recent release of 2025 Topps Welcome to the Club: 3X MVP, celebrating Ohtani’s historic achievements. After making history with the first-ever 50/50 season, Ohtani’s presence at the front of the Topps flagship series further cements his dominance in the sport and the collectibles market.
Ohtani’s Second Appearance as the No. 1 Card
This marks the second time Ohtani has earned the No. 1 slot, his first being in 2022. Last year, Ronald Acuña Jr. led off the set following his unanimous 2023 NL MVP season, highlighted by a 41-homer, 73-steal campaign.A Tradition of Legends at No. 1
The Topps No. 1 card has long been reserved for baseball’s biggest names. Previous honorees include:- Mike Trout
- Derek Jeter
- Pedro Martinez
- Ted Williams (three times in five years)
- Alex Rodriguez (a record five times)
- Hank Aaron (also appearing five times, including 1975 when he broke the all-time home run record)
Ohtani’s Legacy in the Hobby
The No. 1 card tradition began in 1951 with Yogi Berra, whose card listed his full name as Larry (Yogi) Berra. Over the years, it has become a symbol of baseball greatness, and now, Shohei Ohtani’s 2025 Topps Series 1 #1 card carries that legacy forward.With Ohtani continuing to redefine the game, his Topps Series 1 release is shaping up to be one of the most coveted in recent years, further solidifying his place among baseball’s all-time greats.