Cole Benz

Cole Benz

After graduating from the University of North Dakota in 2008, Cole worked as an advertising copywriter until shifting to print journalism a few years later. Managing three weekly newspapers in the Dakotas, Cole won numerous awards from the North Dakota Newspaper Association including Best of the Dakotas and, their top award, General Excellence. He returned to collecting in 2021 and has since combined his passion for writing with his love of cards. Cole also writes for the Sports Cards Nonsense newsletter and has made guest appearances on multiple sports card collecting podcasts including Sports Cards Nonsense, and the Eephus Baseball Cards Podcast. IG: coleryan411 X: @colebenz

Mar 20, 2023; Miami, Florida, USA; Japan designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (16) reacts on his way to first base after a walk in the seventh inning against Mexico at LoanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Shohei Ohtani is one of, if not the most recognizable baseball players on the planet. His card market has soared and he's getting another chance to show his abilities on the global stage as he suits up for Japan in the World Baseball Classic.

Cole Benz
|
Mar 3, 2026; Scottsdale, AZ, USA; Team USA shortstop Bobby Witt Jr against the San Francisco Giants during a spring training game at Scottsdale Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The United States last won the WBC in 2017, almost 10 years ago. Since then the card market has grown exponentially and some of Team USA's cards have sold for thousands. There are five that standout as the top sales of Team USA WBC cards.

Cole Benz
|

Flawless was first released in 2014 and has been the premier product for NFL rookie patch autographed cards ever since. The 2025 set comes out soon and could be the last with NFL logos and team names as Fanatics takes over the licenses in April.

Cole Benz
|