The San Francisco Giants have a plethora of legendary and All-Star players to collect. From Willie Mays, to Barry Bonds, to Buster Posey, Giants fans have many popular players to add to their collection. But which cards are the best? That’s where HobbyListings comes in.
HobbyListings has put together a list of the top eight best Giants cards every fan needs. Did we miss one of your favorites? Let us know in the comments below!
1. 1952 Topps Willie Mays Card (#305)
Willie Mays’ 1952 Topps card is a treasure for any Giants fan. Known as “The Say Hey Kid,” Mays is one of the greatest all-around players in baseball history. He spent the majority of his 22-season career with the Giants, dazzling fans with his hitting, base running, and legendary fielding. If this card is out of your price range, Mays’ 1955 Bowman card is a beautiful — and cheaper — one to add to your collection.
2. 2008 Bowman Chrome Draft Prospects Buster Posey Autograph (#BDPP128)
Buster Posey was the face of the franchise during the Giants’ dynastic run in the 2010s. A key player in the Giants’ three World Series championships in 2010, 2012, and 2014, Posey was one of the best catchers in baseball, known for his hitting and leadership. Over 12 seasons, Posey won the NL Rookie of the Year, NL MVP, and was a seven-time All-Star.
3. 2007 Bowman Chrome Draft Picks Madison Bumgarner (#BDPP61)
Madison Bumgarner is one of the best postseason pitchers in recent history. His performances in the 2014 World Series against the Kansas City Royals were legendary, cementing his status as a Giants icon.
4. 1993 Topps Finest Barry Bonds Refractor (#103)
Despite being linked to PEDs, Barry Bonds became the game’s greatest hitter while with the Giants. Bonds set the single-season home run record in 2001 with 73 and became MLB’s all-time home run leader with 762 during his tenure with the Giants.
5. 1961 Topps Juan Marichal Rookie Card (#417)
Juan Marichal was one of the greatest pitchers of his era. Known for his high leg kick and pitching dominance, Marichal spent most of his career with the Giants, earning multiple All-Star selections.
6. 1958 Topps Orlando Cepeda Rookie Card (#343)
Orlando Cepeda was a powerful hitter and key member of the Giants during the late 1950s and early 1960s. He was the 1958 Rookie of the Year and a significant contributor to the Giants’ offense.
7. 2007 Bowman Chrome Tim Lincecum Autograph (#BC238)
Tim Lincecum, affectionately known as “The Freak,” became a fan favorite for his unorthodox pitching style and dominance on the mound. A two-time Cy Young Award winner, Lincecum played a crucial role in the Giants’ World Series wins.
8. 1960 Topps Willie McCovey Rookie Card (#316)
Willie McCovey was one of baseball’s greatest power hitters of all-time. “Stretch” McCovey was the 1959 NL Rookie of the Year and a longtime staple in the Giants’ lineup.
History of the San Francisco Giants
The San Francisco Giants, one of the oldest and most storied franchises in Major League Baseball, boast a rich history filled with legendary players, unforgettable moments, and significant achievements. Here’s a look at the Giants’ storied past.
The Early Years and New York Success
- Founded in 1883: Originally based in New York, the Giants were one of the most successful teams in the early decades of professional baseball.
- New York Giants Era: During their time in New York, the Giants won multiple National League pennants and World Series titles. They were managed by John McGraw for three decades, becoming a powerhouse in the National League.
Key Players in New York
- Christy Mathewson: One of the greatest pitchers of all-time, Mathewson was a key figure in the Giants’ early success.
- Mel Ott: Known for his power hitting, Ott spent his entire career with the Giants, setting numerous franchise and NL records.
- Willie Mays: Mays began his career with the New York Giants in 1951, quickly becoming one of the game’s best players.
The Move to San Francisco
- Relocation to San Francisco (1958): The Giants moved to San Francisco in 1958, marking a new chapter in the franchise’s history. They brought with them a rich tradition and some of the game’s biggest stars.
San Francisco Era and Modern Success
- Willie Mays: Mays continued to be a star in San Francisco, solidifying his status as one of the greatest players in baseball history.
- Barry Bonds: Joining the Giants in 1993, Bonds became one of baseball’s most dominant and controversial figures, breaking both the single-season and all-time home run records while with the Giants.
- World Series Championships: After decades of near-misses, the Giants won World Series titles in 2010, 2012, and 2014. These championship teams were known for their strong pitching, timely hitting, and cohesive team dynamics.
Key Players in Modern Times
- Madison Bumgarner: A key figure in the Giants’ three World Series titles, Bumgarner is known for his postseason heroics, especially in 2014.
- Buster Posey: The catcher and leader on the field, Posey has been a central figure in the Giants’ recent success, known for his hitting, game-calling, and handling of the pitching staff.
- Tim Lincecum: “The Freak,” known for his unique delivery and dominant pitching, was a two-time Cy Young Award winner and a key player in the Giants’ 2010 and 2012 World Series victories.