Curtis Granderson Inspires Kids to Collect Sports Cards

CHICAGO, IL — Former Major League Baseball star Curtis Granderson is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of sports card collectors. The three-time All-Star has been collecting cards for years and has now partnered with the Chicago Baseball and Educational Academy to introduce kids to the hobby.

Throughout his impressive 16-season career, Granderson played for seven MLB teams. He was a standout outfielder, leading the league in triples in both 2007 and 2008 and achieving notable stats with 1,800 hits and nearly 350 home runs. After retiring, he became an analyst for MLB on TBS and TNT, bringing his insights during the 2025 playoffs.

In a recent conversation with SCD contributor Tony Reid, Granderson recounted his journey into collecting, sharing his early experiences with autographs. He vividly remembered the first time a fan asked for his signature in June 2002, just after he was drafted. “I was practicing my autograph in high school, so I was ready,” he said. However, he quickly learned the nuances of signing a baseball, such as avoiding the ‘sweet spot,’ typically reserved for managers.

Granderson also described memorable fan interactions, including a touching moment during a book signing for his children’s book titled ‘All You Can Be.’ A young girl in a ballet outfit surprised him with an invitation to her performance, which left a lasting impression. ‘That reaction was totally unexpected,’ he recalled. ‘It sticks with me even now.’

He believes that many fans come to collect beyond just transactions. ‘If someone has paid for a ticket, there’s excitement to meet someone they admire,’ Granderson said. However, he also noted that some individuals try to catch him outside of events without supporting the cause. ‘I think there’s a mix of excitement and transaction,’ he said.

Granderson’s journey in trading cards began with his first cards appearing in the 2002 Bowman Draft Picks and Prospects set. He expressed delight in discovering an error card featuring his face but the name of another player. ‘I was like, ‘I made it!’ This was so exciting!’ he said about his early experiences with sports cards.

His commitment to community service earned him the Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award and the Roberto Clemente Award. Growing up with educator parents, Granderson naturally gravitated towards giving back. ‘Helping others has always been second nature to me,’ he said, as he aims to motivate young minds through sports and collecting.

The recent collaboration with the National Sports Collectors Convention aims to engage kids in the exciting world of card collecting. ‘Card collecting teaches kids about money management, negotiation skills and introduces them to a realm of valuable lessons,’ he noted. ‘It was incredible to see the kids’ excitement when they opened their first packs.’

His passion for connecting with fans and giving back continues to guide his post-baseball career. ‘I’m grateful for the opportunity to help others along their journey,’ he concluded.