Buying Categories
1. The G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time)
These are the legendary players who have defined their sport over decades, like Michael Jordan, Tom Brady, Micky Mantle or Serena Williams.
Cards of G.O.A.T. players are long-term investments that normally hold value regardless of current trends, appealing to collectors and investors alike. Personally my goal is to have a collection of Reds players, Braves Players and GOATS!
The truth is personally and financially anything other than those cards don’t matter in the long run.
2. The In-Season Call-Up Players
Players called up mid-season, often from minor leagues or development programs, who bring fresh excitement and buzz to their team. Their cards gain immediate attention, especially if they perform well early, but they carry some risk since their long-term potential isn’t yet proven.
A great exampel of this is Reece Hinds who was brought up by the Reds in mid season of 2024. Reece started out with a bang, and then slumped badly towards the end of the year. As we move into the 2025 season, there is still a queston if Reece will make the major leaque squad or start the season in Triple A.
I have to admit, I got caught up in the hype a little and picked up a few of his base rookie cards, but I have friend that invested over a thousands dollars in Reece Hinds cards. We will see in the future how that plays out. The ball comes off his bat like a rocket, so it is hard for me to see how he won’t have a future in the major leagues.
3. The First Rounder
These are players selected in the first round of their sport’s draft, showcasing significant early promise and high expectations. Collectors often buy in based on potential, with values fluctuating depending on how quickly and effectively these players transition to the pro level.
Here in Atlanta there is a lot of hype surrounding Hurston Waldrep the Atlanta Braves first round pick in 2023 even though he has yet to pitch in an American League game.
4. The #1 Draft Pick
As the top pick in their draft class, these players are seen as future franchise leaders. Their cards often come with high initial demand and prices due to immense hype, but sustaining that value depends on whether they can live up to their lofty expectations.
Everyone reading this knows who Paul Skeenes is, but how many remember Stephen Strasburg or Todd Van Poppel? Both had as much or more hype around them when they were drafted and their future Hall of Famer expectations didn’t quite pan out.
5. The Fan Favorite
These players may not dominate the stat sheets, but they have a devoted following among fans due to their charisma, loyalty to a team, or clutch performances in critical moments. Their cards can hold steady value in local markets and among die-hard team enthusiasts, making them a unique category in the hobby.
For myself and other Reds fans Tommy Helms would be that player. Tommy played in the minor leagues with Pete Rose, they cam up to the major about the same time, and Tommy was totally comitted to the Cincinnati Reds. He was Pete Roses right hand man during Pete’s time as manger of the Reds, and he was 100% loyal to the Reds throughout his career, and many fans feel the same way about Tommy.
6. The Sleeper Pick
These are the underdogs of the sports card world—players who aren’t generating headlines but have the potential to surprise. This category requires a keen eye for talent and timing, as these players’ cards can skyrocket if they start turning heads with unexpected performances.
When I think about this, Jerome Walton comes to mind. Going into the season every baseball fan had hear of Ken Griffey Jr., very few had heard of “the sleeper” Jerome Walton. In 1990 when my brother and I had our baseball card shop, we were selling the future National League rookie of the year Jerome Walton cards for $16.00 and taking those proifts and investing in Ken Griffey Jr. rookies. Yes, there much more hype around the sleeper, Jerome Walton, than the pedigreed Griffey Jr.
7. The Bounce-Back Candidate
These players have faced setbacks such as injuries, off-years, or team changes but have a history of proven success. Bounce-Back Candidates provide a mix of risk and reward, as their career trajectory hinges on their ability to overcome challenges and reclaim their previous status.
As a Reds fan I am expecting Bounce-Back years from several reds players including, Matt McClain & Christian Encarnacion-Strand both who were out hurt all year, last year.
From an invesmtne standpoint, I did an article about players I have invested in pre-season to sale by the All Star Break. Many bounce back players on this list.
Without question my #1 investment pick for bounce back player in 2025 is Corbin Carroll. I have bought several of his cards during this off season, and am expecting him to have great bounce-back year.
Corbin Carroll had an exceptional rookie season in 2023, quickly establishing himself as one of the most exciting young talents in Major League Baseball. The Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder impressed with his combination of power, speed, and defense, earning a well-deserved Rookie of the Year award. Carroll showcased his versatility with a strong batting average, double-digit home runs, and stolen bases, helping lead the Diamondbacks to the postseason for the first time in several years. He had a terrible sophomore slump last year, but after the All Star game he returned to his Rookie of the Year form.
8. The Veteran
While they may not have superstar status, Veterans are players with lengthy, consistent careers marked by solid performances and memorable moments. Veterans may also gain attention for their leadership roles, contributions to championship teams, or iconic moments that define an era of sports.
Forty year old pitcher, Jesse Chavez fits that description for the Braves. Jesse Chavez has played for nine teams in his 16-year Major League Baseball (MLB) career. He’s the most-traded player in baseball history. His best years have been with the Braves. Jesse layed for the Braves in 2010–2011, 2021, 2022–2024. Jesse was part of many post season victories and has always been an inspiration to younger players and fans.
9. The Hall of Fame Contender
These are players in the twilight of their careers, with résumés that suggest they’ll be enshrined in their sport’s Hall of Fame. These cards appeal to those who appreciate the legacy and historical significance of sports greats, making them a sought-after long-term investment.
In my opinion, if a player is not part of your home team that you follow or one that you believe to be a future Hall of Famer, or has that potential, why would you invest in them long-term? Hall of Fame potential is foundational principle which all my investment decisons are made.
I am constantly asking myself, what player has Hall of Fame stats that is maybe being over looked by collectors. Even though he won the Cy Young award in 2024, I believe Chris Sale is being over looked by many in the hobby today. In my opinion his cards a seriously under priced.
10. The International Sensation Players
These players transcend borders and ignite global fanbases, such as Shohei Ohtani or Luka Dončić, fall into this category. Their cards can be highly coveted both domestically and internationally.
I did an entire article on the best Ohtani investment cards, you can find here, and will do a simular article on Luka in the future.
11. The Rookie Phase
This is the period when a player is fresh on the scene, drawing attention simply for being new. At this point most people probably understand, a players rookie card is normally the most sought after card that player will ever have. You can never go wrong in my opinion when you invest in rookie cards of Future Hall of Famers.
12. The Hot Streak
When a player delivers an impressive stretch of high-level performance, their cards often experience a surge in demand.
The best example I can share is the most recent. After the Eagles Super Bowl win this year, we sold 5 Jalen Hurts graded cards within two hours after the Super Bowl ended. If that doesn’t drive home this point, nothing will!
13. The Trade Buzz
Players involved in trade rumors or recently moved to a new team. We all experienced that this year during the off season with Juan Soto moving on to yeat another team.
14. The Breakout Season
Players making a significant leap in their performance, surprising fans and collectors.
15. The Comeback Story
Players overcoming injuries, setbacks, or controversies to achieve success again. I am hoping this is how the story plays out for Braves great Ronald Acuna this year. He missed the majority of the 2024 season with his second ACL Injury.
He is one of the most dynamic player is baseball and many are cheering him on this year!
16. The Playoff Hero
Players who shine in the postseason, elevating their team’s performance under pressure. We just witnessed this in the 2024 World Series with Freddie Freeman’s walk-off Grand Slam in game one, this is one most will never forget.
Some of us will also remember another post season home run in the same ball park in 1988.
17. The Record Chaser Players approaching a major milestone or breaking records. MY PC and childhood mentor Pete Rose chased many records in his career. Of course we all know about 4,192 passing Ty Cobb to have more hits than anyone to ever play the game. How many of you remember or heard about his remarkable 44 game hit streak he had in 1978? That is the one I will never forget. I was glued to the radio or TV all summer.
18. The Viral Moment Players gaining attention for a highlight-reel play, off-field charisma, or social media buzz. One of the most Viral moments in sports that college basketball fans, especially us from Big Blue Nation will never forget!
I will share it with you here, put peronally I hope I never see it again!