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Fanatics unveils special MLB Debut Patches for player jerseys, rookie cards
All rookies making their MLB debut this season will have a special patch on their jersey that will be used on an upcoming rookie card created and released by Topps and Fanatics Collectibles.
On Opening Day Thursday, Fanatics Collectibles and Topps unveiled MLB Debut Patches, the first memorabilia made in partnership with a professional sports league specifically for inclusion on trading cards.
Created in partnership with Major League Baseball and MLB Players Inc., the league’s players association, all players making their MLB debut this season will have the Debut Patch on their jerseys. After appearing in their first game, the patch will be authenticated by the MLB Authentication Program and then placed directly onto their rookie card in a future Topps set.
“Debut Patches represent one of the first steps that Fanatics Collectibles is taking to bring the players and leagues closer to the products, and ultimately fans,” Fanatics Collectibles CEO Mike Mahan said. “As a trusted partner of the league and players association, we are honored to partner closely with MLB and MLB Players Inc., to create this innovative, first-of-its kind program, and are committed to continue developing unique experiences for all fans and collectors.”
Top prospects like Gunner Henderson of the Orioles, Jordan Walker of the Cardinals and Anthony Volpe of the Yankees all made their MLB debuts on Thursday.
When a rookie makes his debut or is called up to the big leagues for the first time, the Debut Patch will be placed on their jersey. Following the game in which he sees action for the first time, the patch will be removed, secured and authenticated for use in an upcoming Topps product.
“A Major League player’s debut day is a cause for great celebration and the culmination of many years of hard work,” Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said in a release from Fanatics. “Topps has been a great partner to baseball for decades, and I think this particular initiative is crucial to the development of deeper fan engagement.”
“For a Player there is no bigger moment than the first time they step onto a field for their Major League debut,” MLBPA Executive Director Tony Clark said through Fanatics. “The Debut Patch is one way to capture the timeless nature of this moment and provide fans the opportunity to be part of it by collecting a player-worn item.”
The MLB Debut Patches will allow fans to collect a card and piece of memorabilia from one of the most important moments in a player’s career. It could also immediately raise the value and demand for rookie cards.
The move was met with excitement from collectors and hobby insiders.
