Etopps IPO 06/18/07

The vacation is over. Back again, this week with 2 RRO that should be accumulated. 

Tony Abreu

Ranked as the Dodgers #5 prospect going into 2007, Abreu has made a quick climb into the majors and is one of the youngest players to play at the MLB level this season, at the age of 22. An undrafted free agent signing from the Dominican in 2002, this 2nd baseman (which is where he should ultimatley play) can flat out hit. He projects primarily as a .300 type hitter in the majors, but with little HR power. Abreu also runs less than most 2nd baseman, as he only stole 8 bags in 118 AA games in 2006.

Abreu is currently hitting .270, not too shabby for a young player making his MLB debut. With this card attaining the coveted RRO status, its almost a guarantee that it will see a quick $2+ increase once it hits the market.

Recommendation: Put in an order of 5+

Mark Reynolds

Drafted in the 16th round due to an draft year injury, Reyonds broke out in 2006 and solidified himself as a top-level prospect. Last season in only 273 A at-bats, Mark hit 23 HR, knocked in 77 RBI and had an OPS of 1.092. He has been pushed up the minor league ladder pretty quickly, and he is most likely going to slow down in his production. Yet this really won’t affect a quick flip.

Reynolds RRO is a great buying opportunity. He projects as a good to all-star level player throughout his career. On top of that, he’s gaining press around the majors after his torrid start to the 2007 season (.867 OPS in 30 games)

Recommendation: Put in an order of 5+

Chase Headly - Image not Currently Available

Another youngster, Chase is a better player in real life than he will be in the sports card world. His lack of power hurts an real chances at a great “sports card career”. Let’s face it, solid defense and high walk totals don’t exactly turn on hobby collectors. Chase ultimately could hit .300 at the MLB level, but I could see him settling in to a .280 - .290 level. I’d most likely project him as a healthy Cory Koskie in his prime. A nice player but once again, nothing that’s going to appreciate over time. Add in the fact that he’s a regular offering and not a RRO, and I’ll pass on this card.

Recommendation: Avoid 

Ryan Howard

Battling injuries, Ryan hasn’t lived up to the hype this season. No real news there. Even with that said, Howard is still on pace to knock in 100 runs this season. With his previous Etopps offerings sporting big print runs (2000, 1442) vs this years max (999) makes this card worth getting. You probably won’t get rich off of it, but it should go up a few $$. The big league challenge should also drive this card up when Howard gets healthy (and starts smacking homers) later in the season.

Recommendation: Buy 3+