2024 Topps Series 2 Shota Imanaga Stars of MLB #SMLB-42
Shota Imanaga · Topps (Fanatics) · Insert / Rookie Card (RC)
Player
Shota Imanaga
Set
2024 Topps Series 2 Stars of MLB
Year
2024
Card #
#SMLB-42
Condition Grade
Estimated PSA 9 (Mint). The card appears to have sharp corners and decent centering, though it is currently unprotected on a fabric surface which can cause micro-scratches. Centennial-style rounded cut edges on these inserts are prone to minor chipping.
Category
Insert / Rookie Card (RC)
Manufacturer
Topps (Fanatics)
Demand Level
Strong. Shota Imanaga is a 'hot' player due to his All-Star caliber debut season and the large Chicago Cubs market. However, this specific insert is a high-volume print, keeping individual value low.
Valuation
Raw (Ungraded) Value
$2.00 - $5.00
Graded Value
PSA 8: $10-15, PSA 9: $18-25, PSA 10: $45-60
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sales for raw copies range from $1.00 to $4.00 plus shipping. PSA 10 copies have recently settled in the $40-$55 range depending on the buyer's urgency.
Description
This is a 2024 Topps Series 2 Shota Imanaga 'Stars of MLB' insert card. The card features the Chicago Cubs breakout Japanese pitcher in his pinstripe home uniform. The design includes a holographic foil finish with a star-themed background and a vibrant blue/red color palette. The 'Stars of MLB' logo is visible on the reverse (implied by set) and the front features a modern, high-gloss finish typical of this popular retail insert set.
Key Features
Features Shota Imanaga in his official Rookie Year. Collectors value his transition from the NPB to the MLB and his dominant early performance with the Cubs. This is a highly accessible but visually striking foil insert.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence. This is a modern mass-produced retail insert. The foil refraction pattern and stock thickness are consistent with 2024 Topps retail products.
Flaws to Note
The card is currently sitting on a quilt without a penny sleeve or top loader, which puts the sensitive foil surface at risk for scratches. Potential silvering on the edges is common for this specific insert series. Minor corner softening is possible from handling.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Best suited for eBay as a 'Buy It Now' listing or as part of a Chicago Cubs team lot. Local marketplace apps like Mercari or Facebook card groups are also viable for low-cost shipping.
Selling Tips
Immediately place this card in a penny sleeve and a rigid top loader to prevent surface damage. Since it is a low-value insert, grading is generally not recommended unless you are certain it will hit a PSA 10, as the grading fee often exceeds the card's value. Use 'Shota Imanaga RC Stars of MLB' in the title.