When Alex Rodriguez finally decides to call it a career, he could very well do so with his name atop several key offensive records. And while the shortstop turned third baseman is one of the more recognizable names in the hobby, many collectors still look at Alex Rodriguez cards with a cold stare. As a result, prices haven't reached as high as many would've expected.
Breaking into the league with the Seattle Mariners, the baseball world loved Alex Rodriguez. He was the second-coming of teammate Ken Griffey Jr. Within a couple years, they were one of the game's top draws and most competitive teams. Alex Rodriguez cards were on a tear and everyone was happy.
It didn't take long for the hero to become one of the game's most vilified players when he took his bat to Texas as a free agent following the 2000 season. That's what happens when you sign a contract good for more than $25 million per year. While Rodriguez put up record-breaking numbers with the Rangers, the team struggled. Many always argued that the massive contract stretched team resources too thin so they weren't able to build a deeper team.
Rodriguez lasted just three years in Texas. He was sent to the New York Yankees where he moved to third base to team with Derek Jeter. Now with a high-profile team, Rodriguez's controversial persona was matched with the polarizing Yankees. He remained one of the most dangerous hitters in baseball, but Alex Rodriguez cards didn't see the same significant bump other players often get when they move to a big-market team.
After years of rumors, Rodriguez came forward in 2009 and admitted to using steroids while with the Rangers. Although he was hardly the only player to do so during the era, it still stung many baseball fans. However, over time, this may present an opportunity for collectors. While any records Rodriguez breaks will be met with skeptics, history may be a little more forgiving and could eventually push Alex Rodriguez cards back up.
No matter how someone looks at Rodriguez, the numbers already have him as one of baseball's all-time greats. A three-time American League MVP, he has the potential of breaking Barry Bonds' all-time home run record. Should that happen, Alex Rodriguez cards will certainly get a bump. It will also be a telling time to see if fans are willing to looking his perceived greed and past transgressions.
There are six Alex Rodriguez rookie cards to chase down. They range from reasonably priced entry-level cards to rookies in premium products. The most popular Alex Rodriguez rookie card is from 1994 SP Baseball. It's interesting to note that none of the first-year Alex Rodriguez cards were produced by Topps. He did not sign a contract with the card maker until 1998.
Alex Rodriguez Rookie Card Guide
1994 Collector's Choice Baseball Alex Rodriguez #647
The 1994 Collector's Choice Alex Rodriguez is an affordable but attractive rookie card. Collector's Choice was Upper Deck's entry level product. It was aimed largely at young collectors. However, the classy design and youthful portrait make it a visually appealing choice for anyone. 1994 Collector's Choice Baseball has two parallels that feature foil facsimile autographs: Silver Signature and Gold Signature.
1994 Flair Alex Rodriguez #340
1994 Flair was a new super-premium brand. The thick glossy finish and thick card stock weren't common in the hobby at the time. Combine those with the gold-foil nameplate and gorgeous dual-photo card fronts and you have a very memorable set that still stands out today. The 1994 Alex Rodriguez rookie card is from Series 2. He is also featured in the 1994 Flair Wave of the Future insert set.
1994 Fleer Update Alex Rodriguez #86
Distributed as a box set, the 1994 Fleer Update Alex Rodriguez rookie card shows the youngster flexing a little muscle. The simple white-border design remains popular with collectors today. Although the price has dropped in recent years, due in large part to ample supply, it is an excellent choice.
1994 SP Alex Rodriguez #15
The grand-daddy of all first-year Alex Rodriguez cards, not to mention one of the most iconic cards of the 1990s, 1994 SP features a simple portrait of the future Hall of Famer. Notoriously condition sensitive, professionally graded mint and gem mint copies command high prices. This, despite the shortstop's drop in overall popularity in recent years. When purchasing online, it's wise to request full-sized scans of both sides of the card to check against edge wear. The 1994 SP Alex Rodriguez has a Die-Cut parallel. The set also featured him in the popular Holoviews and Holoviews Die-Cut insert sets.
1994 Sportflics Rookie/Traded Alex Rodriguez #148
For those looking for an Alex Rodriguez rookie card that's a little different, 1994 Sportflics Rookie/Traded might be the answer. Produced with lenticular technology, it attempts to capture Rodriguez attempting a double play at second base. Although readily available, it doesn't appear to be quite as plentiful as many other 1994 Alex Rodriguez cards. For those looking for a greater challenge, the set has an Artist's Proof parallel. There's also a 1994 Sportflics Rookie/Traded Rookie Starflics insert.
1994 Upper Deck Alex Rodriguez #24
The 1994 Upper Deck Alex Rodriguez is one of his most memorable rookies. As a part of the Upper Deck base set, it's one of the most widely collected. The foil finish, inclusion in the long-running Star Rookies subset and a fun photo all add to its appeal. There's also an Electric Diamond parallel and a holographic Next Generation insert (that also has an Electric Diamond version).
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Alex Rodriguez Autographed Memorabilia Buying Guide
Below you will find an example of what Alex Rodriguez's authentic signature looks like. This can be used as a first point of reference for determining the legitimacy of autograph memorabilia, but is not a substitute for having your items authenticated by a well-respected professional autograph authentication company.
Signed Baseball Pricing:
Average eBay Sales Price: $125
Lowest Amazon Price:
Signed Jersey Pricing
Average eBay Sales Price: $177
Lowest Amazon Price:
Signed 8x10 Photo Pricing
Average eBay Sales Price: $57
Lowest Amazon Price:
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richard kruse | Jan 20, 2013 | Reply
ryan i have a upperdeck sweet spot autographed 53/100 alex rodriguez anyone i know cannot find them anywhere its a 2004 framed picture and cover stitched baseball with his signature, any idea what its worth im hearing anywhere from 1 to 3 thousand, trying to buy a house anfd this would help alot ty rich
Ryan Cracknell | Jan 20, 2013 | Reply
richard kruse » Unless there is something extremely unique about it, it’s highly unlikely you’d get any more than $250-300, probably less, unfortunately. While I don’t see one listed numbered to 100, similar Sweet Spot cards numbered to much less selling for well under $400. http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_ipg=50&_sadis=200&_adv=1&_sop=13&LH_SALE_CURRENCY=0&_sacat=0&_from=R40&_dmd=1&_nkw=alex+rodriguez+%28auto%2Cautograph%29+sweet&LH_AvailTo=1&rt=nc