Shohei Ohtani, Murakami Autograph Special Topps Tokyo Series Cards For Two Lucky Fans

Shohei Ohtani's return to Japan has ignited excitement as he takes center stage in MLB's Tokyo Series at the iconic Tokyo Dome.

The Los Angeles Dodgers superstar is not just making headlines for his performance on the field—his collaboration with world-renowned Japanese artist Takashi Murakami has sent collectors into a card craze.

Ohtani and Murakami Join Forces for Exclusive Topps Cards

Shohei Ohtani, Murakami Autograph Special Topps Tokyo Series Cards For

Before the highly awaited series, Ohtani sat down with Takashi Murakami, famous for his iconic floral patterns, to sign four special autographed trading cards. According to TMZ Sports, two of the special autographed cards will be included in limited-run Topps sets, allowing two fortunate fans to own a one-of-a-kind piece of baseball history.

These limited collectibles will be included in:

• 2025 Topps Baseball Series 1 – Tokyo Game Exclusive ($50 per set)
• 2025 Topps x Murakami MLB Tokyo Series Matchup Set ($120 per set)

The Series 1 set will feature extremely rare Murakami-designed base card variations, numbered one through five, further increasing collectors' value.

Collectors who discover a "redemption card" in their pack can redeem one of the signed Ohtani-Murakami cards, making these sets essentials for both baseball and art collectors.

Ohtani's Gold-Embellished Jersey to Be Immortalized in Topps Card

Tokyo celebrations began with a star-spangled exhibition game against the Yomiuri Giants on Saturday. Ohtani, never one to follow the crowd, was dressed in a specially designed jersey with a gold-frosted MLB logo on the back—a bold departure from the usual club-colored emblem.

Rather than being discarded, this unique patch will be embedded in a special Topps Gold Logoman trading card, set for release later this year. Given Ohtani's global popularity, this card is expected to become one of the most sought-after collectibles of 2025.

Murakami's Surprise Pull: A $5,000 Ohtani Card

Murakami, who has been a lifelong baseball enthusiast, was part of the pre-game fun by stopping by Mint Shibuya, a popular hobby store in Tokyo, where he broke open packs of the trading cards he created.

By sheer luck, he drew an Ohtani card that was valued at a whopping $5,000, according to WWD. Whether he holds on to this valuable treasure or puts it up for auction is anyone's guess.

Topps Remains King of the Baseball Card Market

Topps has evolved the sports card market by unveiling memorabilia-enhanced cards and premium value rookie versions. One example is that of Paul Skenes's MLB rookie card, which consists of a jersey patch worn by the Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher.

This exceedingly rare card, found by an 11-year-old Los Angeles collector, is now up for auction and will likely sell for more than $600,000. With creative releases such as the Ohtani-Murakami partnership, Topps is showing that baseball cards continue to be a profitable and exciting market for collectors around the globe.

Speaking of Topps, the company released the iconic John Cena heel turn trading card earlier this month. SportsWorld News reported that the card was signed by The Rock and Travis Scott.

Ohtani Mania Shows No Signs of Slowing Down

Shohei Ohtani's return to Japan has only amplified his legendary status. From his performance on the field to his high-profile collaborations, the Dodgers star continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

More Ohtani Topps cards are expected to be released as the Tokyo Series exhibition games continue.