All My 2026 Topps Series 1 Boxes Have Arrived

They're finally here! My 2026 Topps Series 1 boxes. And this time, I went all out and grabbed every format—Value, Mega, Hobby, and Jumbo. Even I have to admit, this is complete overkill.

I usually say "I'm a Topps NOW guy," but somehow I still end up buying the flagship series every year. I guess this is just what happens when you're an MLB card collector. Every year I tell myself "this year I'll hold back," but the moment I see those packages, my willpower crumbles.

Enjoying the Unopened Schrödinger State

Right now, the four boxes sitting in front of me are in the best possible state. Why? Because they *might* contain a Shohei Ohtani autograph card—or they might not. In other words, they're in a Schrödinger's cat state.

Until I open them, you could say that an Ohtani auto "exists" as a possibility. Isn't that incredibly exciting? The moment I rip them open, that possibility collapses into reality. So I'm planning to leave them sealed for a while and just enjoy this feeling.

My Opening Style: With a Drink in Hand

My opening ritual starts with admiring the packaging. I look at each box's design, display them, and just appreciate them visually. The packaging on these boxes looks amazing, so I'm going to keep them on display for a bit.

Then, at some later date, I'll crack them open slowly while enjoying a drink. That's my style. Rushing through the opening feels like a waste. I want to savor the encounter with each card, one by one.

I'm excited to see what cards are inside, but that excitement is something I'm saving for later. Enjoying the unopened state is also part of the collection experience. I think that's one of the real pleasures of this hobby!