USC graduate Alec Word had a December to remember, not just for receiving his Business Administration and Finance degree but also for his incredible luck in the sports card world. Stepping into the spotlight of card collecting, Alec managed to pull off a remarkable feat by acquiring two rare MLB Debut Patch autograph cards, establishing himself as one of the luckiest collectors in the hobby.
Alec’s extraordinary journey began on Saturday, December 7th, when he made his inaugural visit to Jaspy’s Sports Cards & Collectibles. While innocently opening packs of the 2024 Topps Update Jumbo in-store, he stumbled upon a true gem – the 1/1 MLB Debut Patch autograph redemption for Baltimore Orioles All-Star, Jordan Westburg.
Initially oblivious to the card’s significance, Alec’s realization dawned upon him as he observed the shop’s enthusiastic reaction. Maren Jaspersen, co-owner of Jaspy’s, reminisced about the moment, exclaiming, “We were all absolutely thrilled for him! It was his first visit, and he walks away with a massive hit.”
The MLB Debut Patch autograph cards, introduced in 2023 Topps products, stand out as some of the most sought-after treasures in the card collecting community. Featuring a distinct patch cut from a player’s jersey during their MLB debut coupled with their autograph, each card is a unique masterpiece. With only one card in existence for each player, their rarity elevates their value.
Alec’s luck didn’t end there. Returning to Jaspy’s on Tuesday, December 10th, he invested in Breaker’s Delight boxes, known for offering improved odds of obtaining low-numbered cards. Opening them in the comfort of his home over FaceTime with friends, Alec experienced another stroke of luck – uncovering the live MLB Debut Patch autograph card for Jose Ferrer.
Overwhelmed with joy, Alec recounted, “I couldn’t believe it. I started running around the house, yelling. It was unreal.”
His entrance back into the world of collecting commenced during the pandemic as a means to bond with his brother, who was in recovery from back surgery. Describing it as a fun activity they could enjoy together, Alec found more than just cards – he found moments of connection and excitement with his loved ones.
While Alec chose to sell the Westburg card to an Orioles supercollector, he plans to hold onto the Ferrer card for his personal collection, cherishing it as a testament to his extraordinary streak of luck.
Maren from Jaspy’s encapsulated the sentiment perfectly, “We couldn’t believe his luck. To pull two cards like that in just a few days—it’s what makes the hobby so exciting.”
Armed with a degree from USC’s Marshall School of Business and a deep passion for sports, Alec aspires to translate his love for the industry into a professional career. Whether he is making waves in the card collecting realm or pursuing his professional endeavors, Alec’s December will undeniably be etched into the annals of his personal history as one filled with excitement and fortuitous events.
