The most valuable 1989 Donruss baseball cards are those that feature key rookie players, are in mint condition (graded PSA 10), and belong to low-print variations like “Grand Slammers” or “Bonus MVPs.” These factors directly affect auction performance and collector demand.
Card condition, print quality, and player significance dictate price. Cards of Ken Griffey Jr., Craig Biggio, Randy Johnson, and Curt Schilling hold sustained value due to Hall of Fame careers and consistent hobby relevance. High PSA-graded versions—especially PSA 10s—can command premium prices exceeding $200 for top-tier rookies. The base set’s saturation limits general value, but key rookies and subset inserts remain exceptions.
50 Most Valuable 1989 Donruss Baseball Cards
1. Ken Griffey Jr. (#33)
Ken Griffey Jr.’s 1989 Donruss rookie card is the most valuable in the set. PSA 10 graded versions often exceed $250 in sales, due to consistent demand and historical relevance. Its status as Griffey’s first mainstream card cements its long-term desirability.
The card’s value is driven by Griffey’s Hall of Fame career, 13 All-Star selections, and over 600 home runs. Collectors seek high-grade examples without centering flaws or print defects, which are common issues in this set. Its design is consistent with Donruss’ template but lacks inserts or print rarities.
Among late 1980s releases, this card maintains top-tier pricing metrics. Market data from PSA and eBay shows recurring demand among both vintage collectors and modern investors. As one of the few cards to appreciate over time, it anchors most 1989 Donruss portfolios.
2. Randy Johnson (#42)
Randy Johnson’s rookie card remains a consistent mid-tier value. High-grade copies, particularly PSA 10, typically range between $60 and $100. The card features Johnson in a Montreal Expos uniform, which adds a unique historical context.
Condition plays a crucial role in its value retention. Most lower-grade copies suffer from surface issues and off-centering, reducing market interest. However, when preserved well, it represents an accessible entry point for investors seeking Hall of Fame rookies.
His five Cy Young Awards and 300-plus career wins support sustained demand. The card lacks rarity in print run but compensates with player performance history and collector trust. It ranks among the most submitted 1989 Donruss cards to PSA for grading.
3. Craig Biggio (#561)
Craig Biggio’s rookie card holds long-term value due to his complete career and Hall of Fame induction. PSA 10s commonly sell for $40 to $70, depending on market conditions. It’s not rare but remains condition-sensitive.
Collectors prioritize print clarity and corner sharpness for this card. Biggio’s legacy as a member of the 3,000-hit club boosts his card’s appeal. The design is standard but well-aligned with late-1980s Donruss visuals.
Biggio’s versatility on the field and sustained popularity among Astros fans contribute to the card’s relevance. It may not have the explosive upside of Griffey but retains steady interest among vintage collectors.
4. Gary Sheffield (#31)
Gary Sheffield’s rookie card saw fluctuating value through the 2000s. Today, PSA 10 versions hover between $30 and $50. His borderline Hall of Fame credentials and over 500 home runs keep interest moderate.
Collectors favor centered, clean-background versions. The black borders of 1989 Donruss magnify wear, especially along corners and edges. This lowers the population of pristine cards, supporting value in higher grades.
Despite not being enshrined in Cooperstown, Sheffield’s offensive numbers remain elite. He holds significant interest from mid-1990s baseball fans and remains a fixture in long-term investment checklists.
5. Curt Schilling (#635)
Curt Schilling’s rookie card from this set has increased in visibility due to Hall of Fame debates and postseason achievements. PSA 10s average around $30, with sharp fluctuations based on media presence.
Print quality and centering define its grade value. Cards with white borders often show toning or yellowing, especially if stored poorly. Schilling’s playoff performances for the Diamondbacks and Red Sox sustain his profile.
Though not a premium-tier card, it serves as an affordable Hall of Fame-era rookie. Collectors aware of Schilling’s statistical value continue to purchase it for long-term inclusion.
6. John Smoltz (#17)
John Smoltz’s card holds a respected place among 1989 issues. PSA 10 examples generally trade between $25 and $45. As a Hall of Fame pitcher with both starting and relieving dominance, his card benefits from diverse appeal.
Smoltz’s presence in multiple postseason runs with the Braves increases his cultural relevance. The card’s layout and pose are relatively static but benefit from clean background printing. Condition issues like corner softness are common in raw versions.
Though not flashy, the card is a consistent seller in graded form. It appeals to collectors focused on Hall of Fame pedigree over short-term hype.
7. Bo Jackson (#91)
Bo Jackson’s 1989 Donruss card is not a rookie but maintains strong collector interest. PSA 10s trade between $25 and $40 depending on demand cycles. His dual-sport legend status makes this card more than a standard base issue.
Jackson’s injuries limited his career stats but not his market presence. The card benefits from cultural relevance and media nostalgia. Its visual features are stable, though black edges are vulnerable to wear.
Collectors favor it as a long-term speculative hold. While not scarce, its pop culture impact remains a key value attribute.
8. Tom Glavine (#73)
Tom Glavine’s card features him post-rookie but still holds value due to career consistency. PSA 10s typically sell in the $20 to $35 range. The image depicts Glavine in a clean Braves uniform with standard background.
The card has stable market liquidity due to Glavine’s 300 wins and Hall of Fame induction. Its availability in high grade is moderate, with population reports showing decent PSA 10 quantities. Collectors favor this card for team set completion and value stability.
Although it lacks rarity, the player’s legacy sustains consistent secondary market demand. Its inclusion in Braves collections is common.
9. Mark Grace (#201)
Mark Grace’s card from this set isn’t his rookie but remains relevant. PSA 10 graded versions generally trade for $15 to $25. Grace’s career with the Cubs earned him long-term fan loyalty, which supports card liquidity.
The card’s print quality is among the better examples in the set. Grace is shown in a candid in-game shot that appeals to vintage photo enthusiasts. There are no known print run variations or errors.
Its value is largely regional, appealing mostly to Chicago-based collectors. Despite modest prices, it moves consistently at card shows and online auctions.
10. Robin Ventura (#652)
Ventura’s card is technically a rookie, and PSA 10s sell between $15 and $25. His long coaching and playing career give it staying power. He is depicted in a batting pose with no significant photo flaws.
Print issues like surface bubbles and color bleed limit high-grade examples. As a result, the population of PSA 10s is lower than mid-tier players of similar caliber. Ventura’s long-term association with MLB organizations sustains card relevance.
Collectors often include Ventura in complete rookie sets from 1989. While it doesn’t appreciate rapidly, its floor price has remained stable.
11. Jim Abbott (#27)
Jim Abbott’s card commands collector respect due to his inspirational story and solid career. PSA 10 versions are valued between $15 and $30. His inclusion in rookie-focused investment sets is common.
The card’s print run is standard but suffers from surface issues and back centering. Abbott’s popularity in both hobby and media cycles makes this a long-term interest card. Market movement is steady across auction platforms.
Abbott’s legacy beyond statistics provides non-performance-driven support to card value. His influence in the sport remains relevant, which helps the card hold its market position.
12. Steve Finley (#544)
Steve Finley’s rookie card holds low-to-moderate value. PSA 10 versions trade at $10 to $20 depending on demand cycles. The card lacks standout visuals but remains condition-sensitive.
Finley’s career included over 300 home runs and multiple Gold Gloves. These achievements maintain hobby relevance. The card appeals more to completists than speculative investors.
High-grade copies are not abundant due to typical Donruss surface defects. Finley remains a target for collectors focusing on career consistency over fame.
13. Deion Sanders (#72)
Deion Sanders’ rookie card combines baseball and football legacy. PSA 10 sales average between $40 and $70. His two-sport relevance drives value across collector demographics.
The card design shows him in Yankees attire, enhancing crossover appeal. Issues like centering and black border wear reduce raw condition quality. High-grade specimens remain in strong demand.
Collectors interested in dual-sport athletes keep this card in long-term hold portfolios. Its unique appeal sustains consistent auction activity.
14. David Wells (#489)
David Wells’ card, while not high-value, garners interest due to his perfect game and long MLB tenure. PSA 10s often sell around $10 to $20. His media appearances post-retirement have renewed card awareness.
The card has average print quality with minor alignment issues. Wells’ reputation as a big-game pitcher contributes to moderate collector appeal. It is often included in team or pitcher-focused vintage sets.
Though it lacks explosive value potential, it remains a relevant part of 1989 Donruss history. Collectors with Yankee or Blue Jays affinity often target this card.
15. Dante Bichette (#637)
Dante Bichette’s rookie card is modestly priced but carries legacy value. PSA 10s usually sell for $10 to $18. His role in the Blake Street Bombers elevates his card above common status.
The card features clean imagery but suffers from minor printing inconsistencies. High-grade copies are not excessively rare but require careful sourcing. Bichette’s connection to modern MLB via his son adds generational appeal.
Collectors interested in 1990s power hitters include Bichette in investment batches. It serves as a solid complementary piece in player-based collections.
16. Omar Vizquel (#625)
Omar Vizquel’s rookie card in the 1989 Donruss set maintains collector attention due to his defensive accolades. PSA 10 copies often range between $20 and $35, driven by Hall of Fame eligibility discussions and career longevity.
The card displays Vizquel in a defensive stance, fitting for his reputation. Surface gloss and centering are common grading issues. High-grade examples are not overly rare but require scrutiny to meet investment quality.
Vizquel’s 11 Gold Gloves and over 2,800 career hits make his card a speculative hold. While his Hall of Fame case remains debated, consistent collector demand stabilizes market value.
17. Greg Maddux (#52)
Although not a rookie, Greg Maddux’s card from this set continues to attract collectors. PSA 10s typically command $25 to $40. Maddux’s Hall of Fame career and statistical dominance keep his cards in regular circulation.
The 1989 Donruss version features him in a Cubs uniform. Centering is relatively balanced in this card compared to other stars in the set. Edge wear remains a concern in ungraded copies.
Collectors often include this card in full-career Maddux collections. Its pricing reflects sustained, not speculative, demand based on one of the most efficient pitchers in MLB history.
18. Alan Trammell (#155)
Alan Trammell’s card isn’t a rookie, but his Hall of Fame induction has raised collector interest. PSA 10 versions range between $15 and $25. He represents consistency in the hobby rather than volatility.
Trammell’s 20-year career with the Detroit Tigers provides regional value support. The card itself is clean, with good photographic clarity and minimal color issues. Corner integrity is the most significant grading variable.
This card is frequently part of Hall of Fame-themed collections. It carries stable but limited upside, ideal for set builders and Tigers collectors.
19. Dwight Gooden (#212)
Dwight Gooden’s 1989 Donruss card carries nostalgic value. PSA 10s generally sell in the $15 to $22 range. His early career dominance remains a key narrative, despite later decline.
The card depicts Gooden in his Mets uniform, with a solid background and typical Donruss design elements. Surface issues and edge softness impact grading. High-grade examples appear regularly in online marketplaces.
While not a speculative investment, the card maintains strong connection with 1980s baseball culture. It’s often included in vintage Mets collections and pitching-themed sets.
20. Tony Gwynn (#30)
Tony Gwynn’s card in this set offers consistent value due to his elite batting record. PSA 10 versions commonly sell for $20 to $35. Gwynn’s lifetime .338 batting average solidifies long-term interest.
The card’s visual quality is above average for 1989 Donruss. The photo is clear and the alignment stable. However, surface gloss deterioration is frequently noted in raw versions.
Collectors see Gwynn as a foundational figure for 1980s and 1990s set completions. This card is not speculative but represents steady market respect.
21. Rickey Henderson (#226)
Rickey Henderson’s card is valued due to his stolen base records and sustained relevance. PSA 10s command prices from $20 to $30. While not rare, the card reflects enduring collector demand.
It features Henderson in an Oakland A’s uniform, captured mid-swing. Centering is typically favorable, though surface dimples can reduce grade. The print run is average, with no known errors or variants.
This card supports team and player-specific collection goals. Henderson’s prominence in both regular and postseason adds to consistent sales frequency.
22. Nolan Ryan (#154)
Nolan Ryan’s 1989 Donruss card remains desirable due to his longevity and records. PSA 10s regularly reach $30 to $50. While not a rookie or rare card, Ryan’s name ensures constant demand.
This issue depicts Ryan with the Houston Astros. Surface quality and centering issues are occasional grading obstacles. High-grade submissions to PSA remain high for this card.
Collectors include this card in almost all Nolan Ryan compilations. Despite a high population, its appeal hasn’t diminished due to Ryan’s unmatched strikeout numbers and legacy.
23. Cal Ripken Jr. (#51)
Cal Ripken Jr.’s card holds a mid-tier place in the set’s value hierarchy. PSA 10s generally sell between $20 and $35. His consecutive games streak and Hall of Fame status keep his card in rotation.
The 1989 Donruss version features strong contrast and relatively stable centering. Black edges can wear easily, affecting condition scores. Print quality is above average for a card of this era.
Ripken collectors routinely seek out this card for full-career portfolios. Its availability in graded form is moderate but in-demand.
24. Barry Bonds (#92)
Barry Bonds’ card reflects long-term market interest due to home run records and Hall of Fame contention. PSA 10s typically trade for $25 to $40. Bonds’ polarizing legacy doesn’t hinder consistent demand.
This card captures Bonds early in his career with the Pittsburgh Pirates. It features strong design balance but suffers from centering inconsistencies. There are no known rare print versions.
Investors looking at power metrics or future Hall of Fame changes continue to hold this card. It remains among the most watched 1989 Donruss sales listings.
25. Will Clark (#357)
Will Clark’s card shows modest value appreciation. PSA 10s often reach $15 to $25. His peak years and All-Star appearances maintain hobby recognition.
Design features include a clean portrait shot and balanced color tones. Common flaws include edge wear and corner fraying. The card remains plentiful in raw form but less so in top grade.
Collectors focused on 1980s National League sluggers include this card frequently. It provides team-set depth without carrying speculative volatility.
26. Don Mattingly (#72)
Don Mattingly’s presence in the set appeals to Yankees fans and vintage collectors. PSA 10s generally bring in $20 to $30. His career, though shortened by injury, maintains consistent collector interest.
Mattingly’s image is cleanly printed, with solid alignment and sharp contrast. The card has fewer issues with print defects compared to others in the set. However, corner softness remains common.
Yankees-focused collectors frequently pursue this card for historical completeness. Its pricing reflects stable, fan-driven demand rather than investment speculation.
27. Paul Molitor (#123)
Paul Molitor’s card sees regular movement due to Hall of Fame status. PSA 10 examples usually sell between $18 and $25. Molitor’s 3,000-hit milestone underpins his card’s value.
The card is well composed but subject to surface scratches and centering inconsistencies. It lacks rare variants or inserts, typical of the base 1989 Donruss format.
Collectors value it as part of long-term Hall of Fame sets. Its consistency in sales channels reflects recognition without market overexposure.
28. Ryne Sandberg (#320)
Ryne Sandberg’s card ranks well among position players in the 1989 Donruss issue. PSA 10s average $20 to $30. His elite fielding and All-Star presence enhance long-term demand.
Visual structure includes a game-action image with good background clarity. The black edges and corners often degrade in raw condition. PSA reports a moderate population of high-grade copies.
Sandberg remains a staple in 1980s and 1990s Cubs collections. This card benefits from both performance memory and regional fandom.
29. Jose Canseco (#190)
Jose Canseco’s 1989 Donruss card holds nostalgic value tied to the Bash Brothers era. PSA 10 prices generally hover between $15 and $22. His career arc and media presence maintain relevance.
The card shows Canseco mid-swing, with solid printing but variable centering. Wear around edges is the main obstacle to high-grade submission.
Collectors value this card for its cultural significance rather than statistical dominance. It moves steadily in vintage-themed sets and memorabilia pairings.
30. Harold Baines (#387)
Harold Baines’ card has moderate interest due to his controversial Hall of Fame inclusion. PSA 10s sell for $12 to $20. His long career and DH contributions provide niche value.
The card features Baines in a relaxed pose with clean coloration. Surface gloss can fade, reducing raw grading potential. PSA population reports show limited top-grade examples.
Collectors seeking complete Hall of Fame runs include Baines for checklist accuracy. The card’s price reflects collector obligation more than speculative enthusiasm.
31. Ellis Burks (#492)
Ellis Burks’ 1989 Donruss card is a post-rookie issue that holds niche interest. PSA 10 graded copies typically sell for $10 to $18. His All-Star seasons and Gold Glove defense contribute to modest collector attention.
The image features Burks in a follow-through batting pose with decent background clarity. Most condition issues stem from surface dimpling and minor corner wear. Centering is average for the set, though tilt variance is occasionally noted.
Collectors often pursue Burks cards in Red Sox-focused builds. While it lacks broader hobby momentum, it remains a low-cost inclusion with historical team relevance.
32. Kevin Mitchell (#90)
Kevin Mitchell’s card captures the peak of his career. Following his 1989 MVP season, the card saw temporary spikes in value. PSA 10s today average between $12 and $20, supported by his legacy in the Giants franchise.
Print quality is strong with good front-side contrast, though edge flaking reduces raw condition scores. The photo shows Mitchell mid-swing, aligning with his offensive role. There are no reported variations or corrected errors in this issue.
Mitchell’s brief dominance during the late 1980s secures his spot in decade-themed collector sets. The card maintains a stable floor without speculative movement.
33. Mike Schmidt (#244)
Mike Schmidt’s 1989 Donruss card reflects the twilight of his Hall of Fame career. PSA 10 versions routinely sell for $20 to $30. His 548 home runs and defensive accolades support long-term market demand.
The design features Schmidt in a static pose with crisp border separation. Surface gloss remains intact in most raw copies, though print line artifacts occasionally reduce visual quality. Corner wear is typical for cards stored in early album sleeves.
Collectors of power hitters and Phillies history prioritize this card in post-career collections. Its value is tied more to legacy than scarcity.
34. Bret Saberhagen (#297)
Bret Saberhagen’s card is anchored by his two Cy Young Awards and consistent career. PSA 10 copies typically trade for $10 to $15. His performance in the mid-1980s with the Royals created lasting collector awareness.
The card layout is clean with consistent color application. Surface bubbling is uncommon in Saberhagen’s issue, but centering from top to bottom is a known flaw. The photo captures his pitching motion with clarity.
Collectors favor Saberhagen for statistical depth in pitcher-centered builds. The card represents quality performance without high speculative variance.
35. Wally Joyner (#40)
Wally Joyner’s card saw strong interest during the late 1980s due to his fast career start. Today, PSA 10 versions sell for $10 to $14. Though not a Hall of Famer, his market presence remains steady within Angels fan circles.
Print quality is above average, but left-to-right centering problems affect high-grade potential. Joyner is shown in a crouched batting stance, with minimal background distraction. The card lacks any known error or alternate variant.
Joyner cards continue to appear in complete team sets and decade retrospectives. Its low ceiling is balanced by consistent demand among loyalist collectors.
36. Fred McGriff (#187)
Fred McGriff’s 1989 Donruss card reflects a key stage in a career that would eventually culminate in Hall of Fame induction. PSA 10 values generally fall between $15 and $25. His home run totals and multi-team impact drive card attention.
This issue showcases McGriff in a batting pose, with adequate framing and strong border lines. Surface defects are minimal, though centering issues persist across raw inventory. Print darkness can slightly vary across batches.
Collectors often pair this card with earlier rookie issues to represent full-career timelines. Its current value is supported by increased focus on post-career recognition.
37. Dave Winfield (#367)
Dave Winfield’s card enjoys stable interest due to his Hall of Fame credentials and high-profile presence. PSA 10 graded copies sell between $15 and $25. His 3,000-hit milestone secures long-term collector trust.
The card shows Winfield in a posed shot with a clean background and sharp borders. Most grading issues are limited to corner integrity and slight color saturation shifts. It is one of the more visually balanced cards in the set.
Collectors seeking completeness in Yankee or Padres Hall of Fame lists often include this card. Its print run is standard, but player value sustains pricing.
38. Ron Gant (#63)
Ron Gant’s 1989 Donruss card holds minor rookie-year value due to back-to-back 30–30 seasons. PSA 10s sell around $12 to $18, with moderate collector interest. Gant’s early 1990s performance spikes helped secure the card’s profile.
The image depicts Gant in a ready batting stance, framed by consistent borders. Centering and edge wear are variable in raw copies, reducing PSA 10 supply. Gloss degradation is rare but not absent.
Collectors focused on Braves-era builds or power-speed combo players often include Gant. Its value is role-specific, supported by performance metrics rather than career length.
39. Rick Sutcliffe (#228)
Rick Sutcliffe’s presence in the 1989 set offers moderate interest based on his Cy Young Award and veteran status. PSA 10 values usually sit between $10 and $15. The card functions more as a filler for Cubs collectors than as a standalone asset.
Design elements are standard, with decent clarity but low contrast. Issues like top-edge flaking and inconsistent corner sharpness reduce raw grade viability. The card’s population in high grade is sufficient but not flooded.
Sutcliffe’s media work post-retirement maintains low-level visibility. The card appeals most to full-team or award-winner themed collections.
40. Sid Fernandez (#275)
Sid Fernandez’s card is niche-focused, appealing to Mets fans and 1986 World Series collectors. PSA 10 examples typically bring $10 to $14. His unique pitching style and role on a championship team justify ongoing inclusion.
The card image shows Fernandez in mid-delivery with good facial detail and balance. Common defects include slight printing offset and lower border wear. Surface consistency is above average.
Collectors interested in complete rotation builds from notable MLB teams include this card regularly. It doesn’t show investment upside but supports collection completeness.
41. Orel Hershiser (#72)
Orel Hershiser’s card maintains visibility due to his Cy Young season and postseason dominance. PSA 10s often sell between $18 and $25. His World Series MVP award enhances cross-collector interest.
The card features a clean Dodgers uniform and strong photographic clarity. Print issues like background bleed and corner fuzz are known detractors. PSA population remains stable with no significant scarcity.
Hershiser’s card appears often in pitching-themed displays and award-winner rosters. It remains moderately liquid across multiple secondary markets.
42. Mike Scott (#233)
Mike Scott’s 1989 Donruss card reflects peak-era attention from his Cy Young season and Astros success. PSA 10 graded values sit between $10 and $16. His sharp rise and brief peak performance drive temporary demand.
Image composition shows Scott in an expressive motion shot, though color bleeding around the jersey is common. Print alignment can vary between top and bottom edges. Raw cards often suffer from surface loss near corners.
Collectors focused on peak-performance players include Scott, particularly in Houston-themed sets. While not investment grade, it offers historical interest.
43. Frank Viola (#278)
Frank Viola’s card holds value due to his 1988 Cy Young season and Twins postseason heroics. PSA 10s average between $12 and $18. Despite lower long-term impact, peak value sustains modest collector attention.
The image presents Viola in windup form with relatively centered alignment. Border tone and gloss retention vary, particularly in mid-print run versions. Surface scratches are not rare in ungraded inventory.
Collectors interested in award-season replicas and Twins memorabilia seek Viola’s card. It remains available but supported by performance achievements.
44. Carney Lansford (#109)
Carney Lansford’s card offers modest return, focused on team-set completion for the Oakland Athletics. PSA 10 copies generally sell for $10 to $14. His consistency and World Series role sustain minor interest.
The card design lacks standout visuals but offers clean layout structure. Print and surface stability are average, though black-border fading is observed frequently. The card shows moderate PSA 10 population figures.
Lansford cards are commonly part of A’s championship rosters in hobby builds. It offers filler value with stable, team-specific demand.
45. Dennis Eckersley (#124)
Dennis Eckersley’s 1989 Donruss card benefits from his Hall of Fame relief career. PSA 10 graded versions sell between $20 and $30. His dominance during this era and MVP-Cy Young combo elevate collector interest.
Card design highlights Eckersley in delivery, well-centered with minimal background clutter. Surface quality is high in PSA slabs but varies sharply in raw lots. Corner retention is the main flaw in lower-grade submissions.
Collectors focused on relief pitchers or Oakland Athletics lineups consider Eckersley’s card essential. Its pricing reflects both performance history and career milestone achievements.
46. Eric Davis (#114)
Eric Davis’ 1989 Donruss card carries collector appeal rooted in his power-speed profile and peak seasons. PSA 10 examples regularly trade between $15 and $22. While his career was shortened by injuries, his 30–50 season in 1987 created a lasting hobby impact.
The card shows Davis in a composed batting pose, framed cleanly with minimal visual distractions. Centering tends to be slightly right-weighted, which lowers grading outcomes. Edge wear is typical in raw copies, particularly along the top left.
Collectors include this card in builds focused on 1980s offensive outliers. Though not rare, Davis’ highlight-reel plays and career arcs sustain collector interest beyond statistical output.
47. Darryl Strawberry (#55)
Darryl Strawberry’s 1989 Donruss card remains a consistent presence in Mets-focused and 1980s All-Star collections. PSA 10 versions often sell in the $15 to $25 range. His early career potential and cultural prominence continue to drive nostalgia-based demand.
The image captures Strawberry in a pre-swing stance, with good exposure and centered layout. Print runs were standard, but wear and surface gloss loss in raw cards limit grading success. Known flaws include subtle corner dings from album storage.
Despite post-prime decline, Strawberry’s media visibility and collector loyalty keep his card active in the secondary market. Its value is supported by a blend of performance history and lasting public profile.
48. Andres Galarraga (#343)
Andres Galarraga’s card offers sustained niche interest due to his 1990s power numbers and comeback success. PSA 10 graded versions usually range from $10 to $16. His appeal is stronger among Rockies and Expos collectors.
The card presents Galarraga in a batting stance with clear detailing and consistent contrast. Common issues include left-side centering drift and slight border tone inconsistency. It lacks print variations but maintains stable PSA 10 availability.
Galarraga’s role in expansion-era MLB narratives and his late-career surge elevate the card’s visibility. While it remains undervalued in broader hobby trends, team-specific demand keeps it relevant.
49. Kevin Seitzer (#443)
Kevin Seitzer’s 1989 Donruss card reflects residual value from his rookie-year breakout and All-Star selection. PSA 10 copies typically sell for $10 to $14. His role as a contact hitter limits speculative growth but supports steady team-based demand.
The photo is straightforward, showing Seitzer mid-swing with neutral color backgrounds. Surface abrasions and soft corners are frequent in unprotected raw lots. Graded examples display consistent quality when well-preserved.
Collectors pursuing Royals-era cards include Seitzer’s issue to complete franchise sets. Its valuation remains consistent with performance-focused, second-tier players from the late 1980s.
50. Benito Santiago (#413)
Benito Santiago’s card closes the top 50 list with moderate interest grounded in his defensive achievements and Rookie of the Year recognition. PSA 10 values range from $10 to $15. Santiago’s career behind the plate and strong arm legacy sustain moderate collector activity.
The design features a candid action shot with good foreground clarity. Known flaws include edge flaking and minor gloss inconsistency. The card is not rare but is underrepresented in high-grade due to storage exposure.
Santiago remains popular among collectors focused on catchers and award-winning rookies. Though the card lacks major upside, it rounds out 1989 Donruss builds that target positional completeness and historical recognition.