The Stephen Strasburg legend continues for the phenom pitcher who has reached 103 mph on the radar gun. It’s pretty much a foregone conclusion that he’ll be the No. 1 overall pick this summer by the Washington Nationals. His 11-0 record so far this season for San Diego State includes an insane 164/17 strikeout/walk ratio in 87.1 innings. That works out to 18.2 strikeouts per nine innings.
Those stats and equally flattering scouting reports have collectors in hot pursuit of anything Strasburg. Here’s a look at a few of his most popular cards issued thus far: 2008 UD Sweet Spot USA Black Leather Signature (#’d to 32) – $225, ’08 UD Sweet Spot USA Black Stitch Red Ink Auto (#’d to 260) – $150, ’08 UD Sweet Spot USA Red/Blue Stitch Black Ink Auto (#’d to 37) – $225, 2009 UD USA National Team Base Set Auto (#’d to 175) – $175 and 2009 UD USA National Team Patriotic Patch Auto (#’d to 50) – $250.
Zack Greinke has easily been the hottest pitcher in baseball so far this season. Through his first seven starts, he has a miniscule 0.51 ERA and 59 strikeouts in 53 innings to go along with a dominant 6-0 record. His dominance on the mound has resulted in hot activity for all of his top cards: 2002 Bowman Chrome Draft No. 6 rookie doubles this month from $6 to $12, 2003 Bowman Signs of the Future No. ZG doubles from $20 to $40, 2003 Bowman Draft Signs of the Future No. ZG moves up from $15 to $40 and 2002 Upper Deck Prospect Premieres No. 93 rookie autograph takes a huge increase, jumping from $25 to $85
– Joe Clemens