Upper Deck & MLBPA plan "National Packtime" promotion

Although the release of Upper Deck‘s 2010 Baseball set remains a few months away, the company announced on Wednesday an initiative with the MLB Players Association that will get free baseball cards into collectors’ hands next March.

“National Packtime” is set for Saturday, March 6, 2010, with with free packs of cards distributed at card shops. The packs will include cards specifically made for the event and the checklist will include Derek Jeter, David Ortiz and Albert Pujols.

“We’re thrilled to be joining forces with the Players Association on such a massive and exciting promotion,” said Richard McWilliam, CEO of Upper Deck, in a statement. “During these difficult times, we want to remind fans of the joy and exhilaration they felt when they opened their first pack of baseball cards, whether it was 10, 25 or 50 years ago.

“We also want to share that fun with kids, a new generation of collectors, many of whom haven’t ever had the chance to bask in the glory of finding a coveted rookie card, the star player from their favorite team or maybe even a valuable autograph card.  It’s a very unique and special experience that is truly unmatched by any other product.”