The 2024 Topps Update Series Baseball set has taken the collecting world by storm with its unique surprises and hidden treasures. Among the unexpected delights is the crossover that caught everyone off guard—Aaron Judge’s venture into the Paw Patrol universe. In a quirky twist of fate, fans can now find Judge teaming up with the lovable pups in a magical town where anything can happen.
In a special episode of Rubble & Crew that aired recently, Judge found himself stranded in Builder Cove, a whimsical place where dogs speak and dreams are constructed. While missing out on a home run derby, Judge and his furry friends embarked on an adventure to build a stadium from scratch. This endearing escapade has been immortalized by Topps in two special trading cards featuring an animated version of the iconic Yankees’ player—PP-1 and PP-2 have quickly become coveted collectibles for enthusiasts.
But the surprises don’t stop there. Jazz Chisholm Jr. makes a grand entrance in the set with a hidden gem in the form of a short-print (SSP) variation. Traded to the New York Yankees from the Miami Marlins just before the deadline, Chisholm’s timing missed the boat for the main set release. However, collectors can still track down his elusive variation card, #US1, marking his debut with the Yankees. Keeping collectors on their toes, this variation lacks the familiar CMP code on the back, making it a delightful challenge for keen-eyed collectors.
Adding to the excitement are the Golden Image Variations that present fresh perspectives on the 350 base cards. Collectors are treated to alternate images of their beloved players, injecting a renewed sense of thrill into every pack opened. But amidst all the excitement, a minor hiccup has been noticed with the misnumbering of Black parallels. While Black parallels are traditionally numbered to 73 in previous sets, the 2024 Update Series mistakenly features them numbered up to 74. A curious anomaly for those invested in the minutiae of collecting, it doesn’t hinder the overall appeal of the set but certainly raises an eyebrow or two.
As collectors delve deeper into the 2024 Topps Update Series, the unexpected inclusions of Aaron Judge’s Paw Patrol cards and Jazz Chisholm’s unique SSP variation showcase that surprises still await in the world of flagship baseball sets. The thrill of the unseen lingers as collectors anticipate unearthing more hidden gems and Easter eggs within this release. While short prints may be dwindling elsewhere, Topps continues to enchant with their ability to sprinkle fun and mystery into their sets. Whether chasing after Judge’s animated antics or Chisholm’s new beginnings with the Yankees, the 2024 Topps Update Series promises a treasure trove worth exploring with every pack ripped.
