Topps Signs Ryan Howard to Exclusive Deal

Ryan Howard is getting plenty of box time on packages of 2007 Topps baseball.

The Topps Company has announced that 2006 N.L. MVP Ryan Howard is an
exclusive for its baseball brands in 2007.

The deal grants New York City-based company exclusive rights within the
MLB trading card category for autographed baseball cards, game-used
memorabilia cards and the use of Howard's image on packaging and advertising.

Howard will be featured on boxes of 2007 Topps Baseball Series 1, which
will be available in stores nationwide the second week of February. Howard's
58-Home Run MVP season will also be commemorated with a special set in
2007 Topps Baseball.

"What Ryan has done in his first two seasons is absolutely amazing,"
said Warren Friss, GM, Topps Sports. "Ryan is the face of a new
generation of baseball stars."

Howard, 27, was awarded the National League MVP after hitting a Major
League-high 58 home runs and knocking in 149 RBIs. He also set a
Phillies team record with 37 intentional walks and won the 2006 All-Star
Home Run Derby.

Topps' other exclusives include Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat, New
York Yankee Alex Rodriguez, New York Met David Wright and the Mickey
Mantle estate.