American League Rookie of the Year Aaron Judge has won the online vote and will be card #1 in the 2018 Topps baseball set. The announcement was made live on MLB Network Monday morning.
Topps first opened card #1 to public election in 2016. Mike Trout and Kris Bryant were the first two players elected to the leadoff position in the Topps flagship series, which traditionally kicks off the baseball card “season.”
Judge rookie cards helped drive the market last year, with his record-setting home run power driving strong national interest.
“Aaron Judge transcended baseball during his record-breaking rookie season,” said David Leiner, Topps Global General Manager. “Fans from across the league were excited to see him play so it comes as no surprise they voted for him to be Card No. 1 in this year’s set. We are thrilled to add him to the list of great players that have been featured on the first card of the year.”
Judge joins legendary players such as Jackie Robinson, Ted Williams, Mike Piazza and Derek Jeter as those who have been card #1 in past seasons. In some vintage sets, a run of league leader cards kicked off the set.
This year’s annual release looks at memorable moments and milestones including Jackie Robinson Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Memorial Day, and special throwback nights depicting unique uniforms worn. Topps is also honoring MLB’s award winners from 2017 with special created made for the Most Valuable Players, Rookie of the Year award winners, Comeback Player of the Year and more.
Topps is also conducting an online sweepstakes in conjunction with Series 1 called “Home Run Challenge.”
2018 Topps Baseball Series 1 packs and boxes reach the market on Wednesday.
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