In a move that is sure to delight collectors and sports enthusiasts across the globe, Topps, a prestigious division of Fanatics Collectibles, has just revealed a groundbreaking exclusive long-term global trading card agreement with Shohei Ohtani, the two-time MVP. This exciting partnership, which takes effect immediately, promises to bring a variety of exceptional collectibles to fans, including autographed cards, game-used memorabilia, and cards that highlight significant moments and achievements from Ohtani’s illustrious career.
This monumental deal extends to both the United States and Japan, recognizing the growing interest in trading cards in both markets. With Japan emerging as a rapidly expanding segment for the hobby and the Topps brand, the partnership aims to enhance its international presence and cater to a broader fan base by offering products specifically tailored to Japanese collectors.
“I’m thrilled to be exclusively teaming up with Topps to provide fans with unique cards and collectibles for years to come,” expressed Ohtani, the standout player for the Los Angeles Angels. Ohtani joins a distinguished roster of Japanese players connected with Topps, including Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Ichiro Suzuki, and Hideki Matsui.
David Leiner, the President of Trading Cards at Fanatics Collectibles, expressed his excitement about the collaboration, calling it a historic moment for the brand. “We are not just partners with Shohei – we are also huge fans, admiring everything he has achieved on the field and his representation of the game off of it,” stated Leiner.
Leiner emphasized that this exclusive agreement would pave the way for Topps to innovate like never before. “Through this new, exclusive deal, Topps will push the boundaries of innovation by delivering collectors products that have never been seen in the hobby, while also bringing them closer to this exceptional player,” he added.
This partnership marks an evolution of Topps’ previous non-exclusive association with Ohtani that commenced in January 2018. The exclusive deal signifies a deepened commitment to showcasing Ohtani’s talents and providing fans with unrivaled access to exclusive memorabilia.
The announcement closely follows Fanatics Collectibles’ signing of a long-term exclusive trading card deal with NBA superstar LeBron James earlier in the year. By adding Ohtani to their lineup, Fanatics continues its strategy of aligning with some of the most influential athletes in sports to offer distinctive and highly sought-after collectibles.
The decision to include products specific to Japan acknowledges the substantial rise of the trading card market in the country. This strategy enables Topps to directly engage with Ohtani’s extensive fan base in his homeland, further solidifying his status as a global sports icon.
For collectors, this exclusive partnership opens up a world of exciting possibilities. From limited-edition autographed cards to memorabilia featuring game-used equipment, the collaboration guarantees items that will undoubtedly become prized possessions in any collection.
Shohei Ohtani’s remarkable abilities as both a pitcher and a hitter have captivated the baseball world, earning him two MVP accolades and international recognition. His unparalleled skillset and humble demeanor have established him as a global ambassador for the sport, making this exclusive partnership with Topps all the more significant.
This new alliance between Topps and Shohei Ohtani is set to redefine the landscape of trading cards, offering fans and collectors innovative products that celebrate Ohtani’s exceptional contributions to baseball and further solidifying his place in sports history.
As a longstanding leader in the trading card industry, Topps, a division of Fanatics Collectibles, has garnered a reputation for quality and innovation. This fresh partnership underscores Topps’ ongoing commitment to delivering unmatched products to collectors worldwide, ensuring an exciting future for enthusiasts of the hobby.
