Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s 2017 Bowman Draft Card: A Collector's Guide

by Jhon Lennon 68 views

Hey baseball card enthusiasts! Are you ready to dive deep into the world of one of the most exciting prospects to ever grace the diamond? Today, we're taking a close look at the 2017 Bowman Draft Vladimir Guerrero Jr. card, a must-have for any serious collector. This card isn't just cardboard; it's a piece of baseball history, representing the early stages of a superstar's journey. We'll explore why this card is so coveted, what makes it special, and how you can add it to your collection. So, buckle up, guys, and let's get started!

Why the 2017 Bowman Draft Vlad Jr. Card Matters

Okay, so why all the hype around this particular card? Well, it all boils down to the player, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and the significance of the Bowman Draft set. Vladdy, as he's affectionately known, is the son of Hall of Famer Vladimir Guerrero Sr., and he entered the league with immense expectations. The 2017 Bowman Draft set marked his first official Bowman card, making it a key rookie card for collectors. Bowman cards, especially those from the Draft series, often precede a player's official rookie card, making them highly sought after. They offer a sneak peek at future stars, and in the case of Vlad Jr., this card became an immediate hit.

Think about it – you're holding a card that represents the beginning of what could be a legendary career. The anticipation, the potential, and the excitement surrounding Vlad Jr. were palpable, and this card perfectly captured that moment. It's a tangible link to a young player's rise to stardom, a reminder of the early days when the baseball world was buzzing with excitement. This card has everything from the raw talent to the legendary last name, guys. The Bowman Draft set is particularly attractive to collectors because it often features players in their minor league uniforms, providing a unique visual aspect. Furthermore, the limited print runs and various parallels (different colored versions) add to the card's collectibility and value. Essentially, the 2017 Bowman Draft Vlad Jr. card is a fantastic investment, a great piece for any collection, and a glimpse into baseball history. This card captures Vlad Jr.'s early journey, making it a valuable and historically significant piece. It's a key card for any serious collector looking to build a comprehensive collection. The value is more than just monetary, it's also about owning a piece of baseball history. This card will be a great addition to your collection. This card is a true gem, especially if you get the chance to grade it. The card is a must-have for any serious collector.

The Allure of Bowman Draft Cards

Bowman Draft cards hold a special place in the hearts of collectors. The Bowman brand is synonymous with prospects, and the Draft series specifically focuses on players who were recently drafted by MLB teams. These cards are often seen as the first significant cards of a player's career, preceding their official rookie cards (which usually come out the following year). The allure lies in the potential. When you buy a Bowman Draft card, you're not just buying a piece of cardboard; you're betting on a player's future. You're speculating on their success, and you're hoping to find the next Mike Trout or Bryce Harper before everyone else does.

Bowman Draft cards also tend to have a wider variety of parallels and inserts than regular Bowman sets, offering collectors more options. Parallels are different versions of the same card with unique colors or features, increasing collectibility. Inserts are special cards with different designs, sometimes featuring autographs or memorabilia. The thrill of the chase, the excitement of finding a rare parallel, and the potential for a significant return on investment make Bowman Draft cards highly desirable. Plus, collecting Bowman Draft cards allows you to stay ahead of the curve, spotting future stars before they become household names. The Bowman Draft cards provide an opportunity for collectors to get in on the ground floor of a player's career. The Bowman Draft cards are an excellent gateway into the world of baseball card collecting, with their potential for high value. Getting your hands on one of these cards is a rewarding experience. Bowman Draft cards are a staple in the baseball card hobby, so getting them is a must. Bowman Draft cards are a great addition to any collection.

Key Features of the 2017 Bowman Draft Vlad Jr. Card

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty. What exactly makes the 2017 Bowman Draft Vladimir Guerrero Jr. card stand out? First and foremost, the card features a stunning image of a young Vlad Jr., likely in his minor league uniform. This is the first professional card of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. The design is classic Bowman, with a clean and modern layout. The card typically includes the player's name, team, position, and the Bowman logo. The front of the card usually showcases a high-quality action shot or a posed portrait of Vlad Jr.

On the back, you'll find essential information like his vital stats, a brief player profile, and the card's serial number (if it's a parallel). The card stock is generally of good quality, often with a glossy finish. This specific card comes in a variety of versions, including the base card and several parallels. Parallels are variations of the base card with different colors or features, such as Refractors (which have a shiny, reflective surface), and other limited-edition versions. These parallels are more difficult to find and are typically more valuable. One of the most sought-after parallels is the Refractor version, which has a distinct, shimmering surface. Other popular parallels include: Blue Refractor, Green Refractor, Gold Refractor, Orange Refractor (often serial-numbered), Red Refractor (usually serial-numbered), and SuperFractor (1/1, the rarest of them all!).

The card's significance also extends to its grading potential. A professionally graded card, such as one from PSA or BGS, can significantly increase its value. Grading ensures the card's condition is preserved and authenticated. The card is a must-have for collectors. The design is clean and appealing, making it a great addition. The card's features are designed to be appealing.

Different Parallels and Their Values

One of the most exciting aspects of collecting the 2017 Bowman Draft Vlad Jr. card is the variety of parallels available. Each parallel offers a unique look and increases the card's collectibility. The value of a parallel depends on its rarity, condition, and the overall demand for the card. Let's break down some of the most popular parallels and their potential values: The base card is the most common version and serves as the foundation for the collection.

  • Refractor: This is the most common parallel and has a shimmering, rainbow-like effect. It's more valuable than the base card but still relatively accessible. Values can range from a few dollars to several hundred, depending on the grade and condition. The Refractor provides a great entry point for collectors. The Refractor is a classic and very popular.
  • Blue Refractor: Often, these cards are more limited than the base Refractor. The Blue Refractor is a mid-tier parallel. Values can vary. The Blue Refractor is a great addition to your collection.
  • Green Refractor: The Green Refractor is usually more scarce than the Blue, making it more valuable. It’s a great piece for any collection. The Green Refractor adds a great touch.
  • Gold Refractor: A step up in rarity, the Gold Refractor commands a higher price. This is an awesome card to own. It's a great card to have.
  • Orange Refractor: The Orange Refractor is often serial-numbered, adding to its exclusivity. Values are high due to its rarity. The Orange Refractor is a must-have for the serious collector.
  • Red Refractor: The Red Refractor is usually very limited and is also serial-numbered, making it highly desirable. The Red Refractor is a fantastic card for any collection. The Red Refractor is a rare card to have.
  • SuperFractor (1/1): The Holy Grail of the Vlad Jr. Bowman Draft card world. This card is the only one of its kind, making it incredibly valuable. Prices can reach thousands of dollars, depending on the card's condition and the market. The SuperFractor is the ultimate card to obtain. The SuperFractor is the dream card.

These values are estimates and can fluctuate based on market conditions, the card's grade, and other factors. It's always a good idea to research recent sales data on sites like eBay and price guides to get a more accurate idea of current values. The variety of parallels adds a fun aspect to collecting.

Tips for Collecting the 2017 Bowman Draft Vlad Jr. Card

Alright, so you're ready to start your collection. What are some key things to keep in mind? First, condition is king. Always look for cards in excellent condition. This means no scratches, creases, or soft corners. A well-preserved card will always be more valuable. Consider grading your card. Grading involves having a professional service like PSA or BGS assess and authenticate your card. A graded card is protected in a secure holder and its condition is officially recognized, boosting its value.

Next, do your research. Familiarize yourself with the different parallels and their relative rarity. Know what you're looking for before you start buying. Buy from reputable sources. Purchase from established dealers, online marketplaces with strong buyer protection, or reputable auction houses. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Protect your investment. Once you have your cards, protect them. Use card sleeves and top loaders to prevent damage, and consider storing your cards in a secure, climate-controlled environment. Keep an eye on the market. Card values can fluctuate, so stay informed about market trends and be aware of when to buy and sell.

Finally, enjoy the process! Collecting baseball cards should be fun. Embrace the excitement of the chase, the thrill of finding a rare card, and the joy of sharing your collection with others. The most important thing is to enjoy the journey. Collecting cards is a great hobby to have.

Where to Buy and Sell the Card

So, where do you find this card? Here are some of the best places to buy and sell the 2017 Bowman Draft Vlad Jr. card: Online marketplaces like eBay are a great place to start. You can find a wide selection of cards from various sellers, but be sure to check seller ratings and feedback. Online card shops such as comc.com and sportscardspro.com often have large selections and offer graded cards. These sites will allow you to explore different options for your collection.

Local card shops are great for in-person shopping, interacting with other collectors, and getting personalized advice. Local shops often hold events like card shows, which can be great opportunities to buy, sell, and trade cards. Card shows are fantastic places to find rare cards and connect with other collectors. Be prepared to haggle and negotiate prices. Auction sites like eBay, PWCC Auctions, and Goldin Auctions are a good way to find higher-value cards and graded cards. Research the auction house's reputation before participating.

Social media groups and online forums dedicated to baseball card collecting can also be great resources. These communities allow you to connect with other collectors, share knowledge, and potentially buy, sell, or trade cards. Always prioritize reputable sources and be vigilant about verifying the card's authenticity. The information provided will help you with your card-collecting journey.

The Future of the 2017 Bowman Draft Vlad Jr. Card

The future looks bright for the 2017 Bowman Draft Vladimir Guerrero Jr. card. As long as Vlad Jr. continues to perform at a high level and builds on his already impressive career, the value of this card is likely to increase. The card's popularity is tied directly to Vlad Jr.'s success. Remember, a player's performance on the field can directly impact the value of their cards. The demand for the card is influenced by factors like Vlad Jr.'s performance and market trends. Collectors often look for cards of players who are on the rise, making the 2017 Bowman Draft Vlad Jr. card an attractive investment.

As Vlad Jr. matures in his career, the demand for his earlier cards, particularly his Bowman Draft card, is likely to remain strong. As time passes, the supply of these cards will not increase, making the cards even more valuable. Card grading services like PSA and BGS will continue to play a key role in the market, providing authentication and assessing the condition of the cards. The future looks bright for card collectors. The future is very promising and exciting for any collector. The future is up in the air. The long-term value will depend on Vlad Jr.'s ongoing career.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, guys! The 2017 Bowman Draft Vladimir Guerrero Jr. card is a must-have for any baseball card collector. It represents the early days of a superstar, offers a variety of parallels, and has the potential to increase in value over time. With the right research, a keen eye, and a bit of luck, you can add this iconic card to your collection and enjoy the journey. Happy collecting, and good luck! I hope this guide helps you in your collecting journey. I know you will get the best cards. If you need any more info, let me know. Happy collecting!