For USC graduate Alec Word, December was not just about donning a cap and gown; it was about stepping into the limelight of the sports card hobby with two incredibly rare Topps MLB Debut Patch autograph cards. The month became a whirlwind of excitement for Alec as he solidified his spot as one of the luckiest collectors in the game.
Alec’s journey began at Jaspy’s Sports Cards & Collectibles on a fateful Saturday, December 7th. While casually tearing open packs of the 2024 Topps Update Jumbo series, he stumbled upon a remarkable discovery – the 1/1 MLB Debut Patch autograph redemption for Baltimore Orioles’ standout Jordan Westburg.
Initially unaware of the magnitude of his find, Alec’s realization dawned with the uproar of excitement from the shop’s staff and fellow collectors. Maren Jaspersen, co-owner of Jaspy’s, recounted the moment, expressing the shop’s elation for Alec’s stroke of luck. Despite it being his maiden visit to the store, Alec managed to walk out with a monumental hit that set the tone for his exceptional December.
The MLB Debut Patch autograph cards, introduced in the 2023 Topps releases, hold a prestigious allure within the hobby due to their rarity and uniqueness. Each card boasts a one-of-a-kind patch sourced from a player’s jersey during their MLB debut, accompanied by their authentic signature. With only one card in existence for each player, these cards are true collectible treasures coveted by enthusiasts worldwide.
During Alec’s pull, a significant portion of the 2024 Topps Debut Patch cards had already been cataloged by collectors, rendering Alec’s find even more extraordinary. But the thrill didn’t stop there.
Returning to Jaspy’s on December 10th, Alec delved into Breaker’s Delight boxes in pursuit of low-numbered gems. Opening the boxes at home via FaceTime with friends, Alec’s fortune shone brightly once more as he unveiled the live MLB Debut Patch autograph card for Jose Ferrer. The elation and disbelief were palpable as Alec recounted his ecstatic reaction, vividly describing his jubilant sprint around the house as he reveled in the moment.
Alec’s rekindled passion for collecting burgeoned during the pandemic, serving as a delightful bonding activity with his brother during challenging times. The hobby not only brought joy and excitement but also served as a cohesive thread between loved ones, transcending mere card trading into cherished memories shared between siblings.
Having already parted ways with the Westburg card to an Orioles supercollector, Alec intends to retain the Ferrer card as a prized addition to his personal collection. Maren from Jaspy’s encapsulated the sentiment shared by many in the hobby, marveling at Alec’s uncanny luck and the sheer thrill that encapsulates the essence of collecting.
Armed with a Business Administration and Finance degree from USC’s esteemed Marshall School of Business, Alec harbors ambitions of leveraging his passion for sports into a flourishing career within the industry. Whether hitting monumental jackpots in the card world or pursuing his professional aspirations, Alec’s December escapades will undoubtedly be etched into the annals of his personal history as a month filled with excitement, luck, and unforgettable moments.
