Cardboard Over Plastic? Multipliers, Manipulation & Market Realities

In Part 3 of Episode 271, the panel takes on one of the hobby’s most debated topics: grading premiums and whether the slab should matter more than the card itself. Chris McRae kicks things off with his now-viral take — “The card over the slab, every time” — sparking a lively discussion with Chris McGill, Chris Hoge, Joe Poirot, and Jeremy Lee about: The psychology behind PSA 10 multipliers Why some collectors avoid paying for the plastic Whether grading is about condition, status… or something else entirely Eye appeal, authenticity, and “own appeal” as the collector’s counterpoint to pop reports With insights into iconic cards like the ’80 Ricky Henderson, ’86 Fleer Jordan, and Griffey UD RC — and personal confessions about cracking slabs and chasing raw gems — this is a must-listen for anyone thinking critically about what they collect, and why. Each week we tackle hot hobby headlines with a rotating panel of hobbyists, taking your questions and comments! We are likely to go into overtime so join us live grab your favorite beverage and snacks and bring your questions and comments as they will be in play. Originally aired Saturday June 14, 2025 Sports Cards Live has recently been ranked #5 among Feedspot's top 90 Sports Card podcasts https://podcast.feedspot.com/sports_card_podcasts/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices