As 2023 unfolds, Topps is stirring excitement in the baseball card community with an unexpected twist in their latest Bowman Draft Baseball series. This year, they're showcasing none other than Tom Brady, celebrated NFL quarterback, in a unique "what could have been" scenario, featuring him in a Montreal Expos jersey.
Brady, renowned for his football prowess, was once a promising multi-sport athlete in high school. His talent in baseball was significant enough to catch the Montreal Expos' attention, leading them to draft him in the 18th round. Ultimately, Brady chose the gridiron over the diamond, enrolling at the University of Michigan for football, which led to his storied NFL career.
In a creative tribute to this lesser-known aspect of Brady's athletic journey, Topps has crafted a special lineup within their prospect-focused Draft product. The series includes 81 autographed cards of Brady as an Expo. Accompanying these cards, Topps plans to release a humorous video, adding a layer of fun to the launch.
Social media previews have already showcased a few of these cards, generating buzz among collectors and fans. One particularly intriguing card features an inscription that playfully hints at Brady's dual athletic capabilities, reading "If baseball don't work out, there's always football." Another card includes a French tribute to the Expos.
The crown jewel of this collection is a Brady autographed card numbered 12/50, reflecting his iconic NFL jersey number. This card has sparked immense interest, with a private collector offering a hefty $500,000 for it. Additionally, the collection boasts a rare 1-1 SuperFractor auto card, adding to its exclusivity.
Notably, Brady's retirement marked him as the last Expos draft pick to conclude a professional sports career. The Expos, having relocated to Washington, D.C. and rebranded as the Nationals after 2004, hold a special place in baseball history.
The 2023 Bowman Draft set is available in two versions: Hobby, which includes three autographs per box, and Jumbo, featuring five autographs. The official release date is set for December 12, but some boxes have already been spotted in the wild. Hit Factory Sports Cards in Arizona has pulled one of the non-signed Brady cards, and Brady's autographed cards are beginning to surface on eBay, offering fans and collectors a unique piece of sports memorabilia that bridges Brady's illustrious football career with his potential baseball path.
via OTIA