The 2024 Topps Update Series Baseball set has taken the card collecting world by storm with its unexpected surprises and exclusive variations. One of the most talked-about features of this release is the crossover between baseball star Aaron Judge and the beloved animated series Paw Patrol. In a special episode of Rubble & Crew, Judge finds himself in a magical town working with his canine pals to construct a stadium from scratch. Topps commemorated this fun adventure with two special Aaron Judge Paw Patrol trading cards (PP-1 and PP-2) that have become highly sought-after by collectors.
Aside from the Paw Patrol crossover, collectors have also been hunting for hidden gems within the set. One standout is a short-print (SSP) variation featuring Jazz Chisholm Jr., marking his debut with the New York Yankees after being traded from the Miami Marlins. This variation card, numbered US1, showcases Chisholm in his new team’s uniform and has created a buzz among collectors. Interestingly, this card lacks the usual CMP code on the back, adding an extra layer of challenge for those seeking it.
Adding to the excitement are the Golden Image Variations, which offer alternate photos for all 350 base cards in the set. These unique variations provide collectors with fresh perspectives on their favorite players, making each pack opening a thrilling experience. However, a minor numbering error has been noted with the Black parallels in the set, which are misnumbered up to 74 instead of the expected 73. While this doesn’t impact the cards’ collectibility, it adds an intriguing twist for eagle-eyed fans.
As collectors continue to delve into the 2024 Topps Update Series, the discovery of more unannounced variations and Easter eggs remains a possibility. The inclusion of Aaron Judge’s Paw Patrol cards and Jazz Chisholm’s Yankees debut highlights the set’s ability to surprise and delight enthusiasts. Despite the trend of fewer SSPs in recent releases, Topps has shown that they can still deliver excitement and novelty in their flagship baseball sets. Whether you’re after the animated antics of Aaron Judge or the debut of Jazz Chisholm in pinstripes, the 2024 Topps Update Series promises plenty of reasons to keep collecting and exploring its offerings.
