Despite being littered with Hall of Fame players throughout the decades, the Milwaukee Brewers are still searching for that elusive first World Series championship. They’ve only made it to the Fall Classic once, when they lost in a seven-game series to the St. Louis Cardinals in 1982. The franchise is hoping Jackson Chourio, baseball’s top prospect who signed an $82 million contract before ever playing an MLB game, will be the one to finally lead them to the promised land.
There are several cards that are must-have for Brewers fans and HobbyListings has listed the top ten below.
Did we miss any of your favorite cards? Let us know in the comments!
The List: Best Milwaukee Brewers Cards Every Fan Needs
1. 1975 Topps Robin Yount Rookie Card (#223)
Featuring Hall of Famer Robin Yount in his rookie year, this card is a cornerstone for any Brewers fan’s collection. Yount spent his entire 20-year career with the Brewers, capturing the American League Most Valuable Player Award twice. A member of the 3,000-hit club, Yount was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1999.
2. 1978 Topps Paul Molitor Rookie Card (#707)
Another Brewers legend, Paul Molitor’s rookie card is a must-have, capturing the early days of his storied career. The seven-time All-Star was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2004.
3. 2010 Bowman Chrome Draft Prospect Autograph Christian Yelich (#BDPP78)
Although originally a Miami Marlin, Christian Yelich’s MVP-winning performances for the Brewers makes his first Bowman autograph card a highly desirable item.
4. 2005 Bowman Chrome Draft Ryan Braun Autograph (#BDP168)
Ryan Braun was a key figure for the Brewers for many years. Over 14 seasons, Braun captured the National League Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player Awards. He was a six-time All-Star who finished his career with over 350 home runs.
5. 2006 Bowman Chrome Prince Fielder Autograph Rookie Card (#221)
Prince Fielder’s rookie card is a nod to his powerful impact on the Brewers’ lineup in the mid-2000s. He and Braun made for a formidable duo in the order. Fielder is the son of former MLB slugger Cecil Fielder.
7. 1974 Topps Gorman Thomas Rookie Card (#288)
A favorite among Brewers fans for his power-hitting and charismatic personality, Gorman Thomas’ rookie card from 1974 is a great vintage pick. Thomas led the American League in home runs twice while with the Brewers and made one All-Star team.
8. 1976 Topps Hank Aaron (#550)
Hank Aaron spent the last two seasons of his career with the Brewers, making his 21st and final All-Star appearance in 1975. His 1976 Topps card is his last one as an active player, making it a must-have for any Brewers fan.
9. 2022 Bowman Chrome Prospect Autograph Jackson Chourio (#CPAJCO)
Jackson Chourio is the next big thing for the Brewers, signing an $82 million contract before he even had his first MLB at-bat. His first Bowman autograph card is a must for any serious collector.
10. 1969 Topps Rollie Fingers Rookie Card (#597)
Even though Rollie Fingers is best known for his time with the Oakland Athletics, the Hall of Fame reliever captured his only Cy Young and MVP Award while a member of the Brewers in 1981. He spent his last four years of his career with the Brew Crew and was inducted in the Hall of Fame in 1992.
History of the Milwaukee Brewers
The Milwaukee Brewers, a franchise with a unique and eventful history in Major League Baseball, have carved out a distinct identity in the sport. Let’s delve into their journey, highlighting key events and players that have shaped the team’s legacy.
Early Beginnings and Franchise Formation
- Founded in 1969: The team was originally established as the Seattle Pilots in 1969. However, after one season, financial difficulties led to the franchise relocating to Milwaukee in 1970, where they were renamed the Brewers, a nod to the city’s rich brewing industry.
Key Milestones and Achievements
- 1978: The Brewers began to make their mark in the late 1970s, led by players like Robin Yount and Paul Molitor. The team’s performance significantly improved, culminating in a winning season.
- 1982 American League Pennant: One of the most celebrated moments in Brewers history, the team won the American League pennant, led by manager Harvey Kuenn. They ultimately lost to the St. Louis Cardinals in the World Series.
- 1998: The Brewers transitioned from the American League to the National League, a rare occurrence in MLB history.
Notable Players and Hall of Famers
- Robin Yount: A lifetime Brewer, Yount is one of the most iconic players in team history, winning two MVP awards and earning a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame.
- Paul Molitor: Another Hall of Famer, Molitor spent 15 seasons with the Brewers, known for his hitting prowess and speed.
- Rollie Fingers: A key figure in the Brewers’ 1982 success, Fingers is a Hall of Fame reliever who won the Cy Young and MVP awards in 1981.
Modern Era and Recent Developments
- 2008 Playoffs: The Brewers returned to the playoffs for the first time since 1982, led by players like Prince Fielder and Ryan Braun.
- 2011 NL Central Division Title: The team clinched the NL Central title, making a deep playoff run but ultimately falling short in the NL Championship Series.
- Christian Yelich’s 2018 MVP Season: Yelich’s spectacular performance earned him the NL MVP award, signaling a new era of success for the Brewers.