In a move that blends the past and present with the sound of bat meets ball, Topps is set to unveil the All Kings insert in its upcoming 2025 Series 2 Baseball Card pack. If you were one of those collectors who marveled at the All Aces edition and its ode to the masters of the mound, tighten your grip and prepare your card sleeves—this release focuses on the sport’s most electrifying hitters. Aptly titled “All Kings,” this set is both a continuation and an evolved effort of its predecessor, placing the game’s most legendary sluggers at the forefront of the hobbyists’ dreams.
Taking center stage in the present-day realm of this power-packed checklist are Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani. These two names not only personify modern baseball’s ability to dominate the batter’s box but also cement their prowess in the corridors of collector culture. With each swing, Judge and Ohtani have brought the bleachers—and eBay listings—to their feet, ensuring their cards, especially those adorned with autographs or limited print runs, remain in high demand.
Adding to the allure, All Kings will feature an ensemble cast of 25 players—a blend of modern marvels and esteemed legends. Alongside Judge and Ohtani, the roster boasts talent like Juan Soto, the exciting Elly De La Cruz, Bryce Harper’s inimitable swag, and Bobby Witt Jr., whose nimble feet often seem too quick for gravity itself. These athletes are not just players; they are narrative creators, each with their own unfolding saga within the ever-evolving 2025 season. Naturally, this makes them compelling subjects for any card carrying a legacy.
Of particular note is the sole rookie inclusion in this assembly of batting royalty—James Wood. A burgeoning star with the Nationals, Wood is poised to seize the spotlight with his potent punch at the plate. He’s already sown seeds of anticipation among rookie card enthusiasts, and should Topps release serial-numbered or autograph variants later, the rush could make card shows buzz with excitement akin to a homerun derby.
The All Kings insert doesn’t stop its royal procession with today’s titans of the diamond. In a move that solidifies its allure, the set pays homage to some of the game’s most respected historical figures. Picture the iconic presence of Mickey Mantle, or the exhilarating mechanics of Willie Mays gracing modern print; imagine the unmistakable silhouette of Jackie Robinson, or Derek Jeter tipping his cap under the New York sky. And let’s not forget Ken Griffey Jr., whose swing is still spoken of in hushed, reverent tones. Their inclusion bridges the nostalgia of yesteryear with today’s electrifying ambiance, presenting a cross-generational treasure hunt for collectors new and seasoned.
In terms of the secondary market, there’s no doubting that All Kings will likely demand steep premiums. The All Aces insert has already set the stage with jaw-dropping sales, boasting five-digit auctions for Shohei Ohtani’s rarities. It’s a testament to the immense appeal and inherent value of well-crafted inserts. However, where pitching prowess once reigned, the sheer magnetism of position players like those highlighted in All Kings promises even greater returns. The market gravitates towards rarity and star quality, and these cards will carry both in spades.
Beyond the dollars and cents lie the elements that make collecting an experience: timeless narratives, exquisite design, and the thrill of unwrapping history within a foil wrapper. All Kings—with Topps at the helm—promises to not only complement but perhaps supersede its predecessor. The opaque sheen of the cards, the texture of the player images, fans will quickly note that this isn’t just another drop; it’s an elevation.
For those with a vested interest in the world of baseball collectibles, the All Kings insert is where you’ll want to plant your collation flag come its release. Whether it’s for the modern flash of a Soto slide, the legendary grace of a Mantle swing, or perhaps even the hope that a rookie like Wood etches their name into future legend, there is something in these packs for everyone. So as the next pitch crosses the plate, let your collecting journey begin—it’s going to be a grand slam.
