Sphere of Influence: May 15th, 2026

Colorstorm Stallion | Art by Lorenzo Lanfranconi

Well, we've now found ourselves in that middle period between sets, with Secrets of Strixhaven releasing last month and Marvel Superheroes coming in June. Plus, we're fresh off of MagicCon Vegas, where we saw the most recent Pro Tour champion Nathan Steuer being crowned.

So, with all of that in mind, let's jump into the Sphere of Influence and take a look some of the cards that are rising in price and playability as of late.

Timely Ward - $5

Our first card that has risen in price is all thanks to a Secrets of Strixhaven precon. Timely Ward fits right into the Enchantress playstyle of the Silverquill Influence deck. Slapping this on the leader of that list, Killian, Decisive Mentor, can help save you some games by making him indestructible at instant speed. Even if you don't own that deck, this Aura is still useful to have around, since it can protect any commander in your arsenal.

Colorstorm Stallion - $1

Izzet Lessons/Prowess is still one of the most popular strategies in all of Standard, with several versions of the deck now running Colorstorm Stallion. This Horse gets+1/+1 when you sling your spells, and it even creates copies of itself whenever you spend five or more mana. This is one we should keep an eye on as the weeks go on, as more and more of those decks look for bigger punching power.

Hushwood Verge - $7

Keeping Standard in mind, we're beginning to see a rise in the price of Hushwood Verge ever since the recent Pro Tour. Selesnya Landfall not only dominated the tournament, but it won the whole thing. Being able to tap for green right away is a huge benefit for this land, since it helps cast Llanowar Elves on turn one, which is the ideal start for that strategy. Plus, it eventually fixes your mana, helping push that deck into the late game.

Doctor Octopus, Master Planner - $1

Next month. we're getting the set Marvel Superheroes, which means a lot more Villains are on their way. A card you might want to snatch up before then is none other than Doctor Octopus, Master Planner, who buffs that creature type and makes for a great form of card advantage. Be sure to pick a copy of this one up soon since it's at an all-time low right now.

Until Next Time

What are your thoughts on these picks? Are you ready for Marvel Superheroes? Or are you still riding the wave from our return to Strixhaven? Let me know in the comments below!