2019 Topps Fire is a Target Exclusive product that was released in August 2019.  The artwork that makes up the 200 card base set was once again created by Tyson Beck.  

Three different packaging option are available.  Fat packs are the cheapest option and retail for around $6 and contain 12 cards including a Blue Chip parallel card.  Blaster Boxes are the next option and they contain seven packs with six cards each.  In addition a special 4 card pack of Gold Minted parallel cards is found in each box.  Finally, for $70 fans could purchase a “Collector’s Box” promising 2 hits per box, one of which will be an autograph.  There are 20 packs of six cards in each collector’s box.

In addition to the base set, there are several insert sets for collector’s to chase.  En Fuego, Fired Up, Flame Throwers, and the Smoke and Mirrors set all have names related to fires.  Go figure.  Lasting Legacies and Maximum Velocity are two additional 15 card sets which feature some of the most popular players of yesterday and today.  

Pack Break

I picked up a fat pack during a recent Target run, and it was actually the only Fire pack in the store.  They did not have any blaster or collector’s boxes.  Here’s what I found inside!

The Harper and Soto will make their way into my PC, but the other cards will be sold on Sportlots.

I’m neutral on the design.  I don’t hate it, but I also don’t love it.  Standard photos are my preference, and I don’t usually care for cards with pattern style backgrounds. I can’t see going out of my way to pick up many more of these at full price.  

This is one of those sets that seems to get some buzz right as it is released each year, but the interest seems to drop off quickly.  The role of retail exclusive and direct to consumer products is likely to rise over the next several years, but in the near term it seems like the traditional hobby products will continue to drive the largest hobby demand.