On Tuesday, Topps announced that a unique 1-of-1 autographed MLB debut patch card of Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes was pulled by an 11-year-old collector from Los Angeles. This rare card is part of the 2024 Topps Chrome Update set and captured significant attention when it was first introduced in November last year.

Following the unveiling of the card, the Pittsburgh Pirates expressed their interest in acquiring it. In a proactive move, the team offered the young collector an enticing package that included two season tickets located behind home plate for 30 years, the opportunity to participate in a softball game at PNC Park, a VIP experience at Pirates training camp, a meet-and-greet with Skenes, and two autographed jerseys from the player. This generous offer remains on the table.

Paul Skenes, the 22-year-old right-handed pitcher, is coming off a remarkable rookie season, making a significant mark in MLB history. Selected first overall in the 2023 MLB Draft out of LSU, Skenes' performance in his debut season included 23 starts, an 11-3 record, a 1.96 ERA, a 0.95 WHIP, and 170 strikeouts over 133 innings. He not only started the All-Star Game for the National League but also received the NL Rookie of the Year Award and finished third in the NL Cy Young Award voting. The unique MLB debut patch card is especially sought after in the collectibles market, as rookies began donning these patches during their first career regular-season games beginning in 2023, giving rise to the creation of these exclusive cards. While the Pirates' offer may appeal to the collector, the potential value of the Skenes card, estimated at six figures according to Sports Collectors Digest, may entice the young collector and their family to consider alternative options, as it could realize a considerable sum at auction. Given Skenes' promising talents and the uncertainties of a baseball career, holding onto the card might carry inherent risks.