The 2021 MLB season saw many promising rookie players make their debuts and start to establish themselves in the big leagues. While it’s still too early to know which 2021 rookies will become true superstars, some have already shown a high ceiling and generated buzz among collectors. As a result, their rookie cards have gained value on the secondary market. Let’s take a look at some of the 2021 rookie baseball cards that are already worth money and have potential to rise even higher in value long-term.
Wander Franco, Tampa Bay Rays – Widely considered the top prospect in all of baseball, Franco lived up to the hype by hitting .288 with 7 home runs in 70 games after his much-anticipated call-up in June. The shortstop’s self-assured playing style and five-tool potential have drawn comparisons to superstars like Alex Rodriguez. Not surprisingly, Franco’s 2021 Topps Chrome Superfractor auto card (#/10) has already broken the $10,000 price tag. Even his base Topps Chrome rookie sells for $200-300, showing strong early demand that should only increase over time if Franco becomes a perennial All-Star.
Spencer Torkelson, Detroit Tigers – Taken 1st overall in the 2020 MLB Draft, Torkelson struggled during his brief MLB debut last season but still possesses the makings of a middle-of-the-order power bat. Although he only hit .197 in 53 games, the first baseman launched 5 home runs and his calling card is hitting for power. Torkelson’s flagship 2021 Topps Chrome Draft Picks red refractor auto (#/25) recently sold for $1,300, impressive for a player still trying to prove himself at the big league level. As the new cornerstone of the Tigers’ rebuild, his cards hold legit longshot potential if he breaks out.
Ronald Acuna Jr., Atlanta Braves – After tearing his ACL in July, Acuna missed the rest of the 2021 season and his early cards were put on hold until fans could see him back in action. Now fully recovered, the dominant 2018-2020 version of Acuna that collected 2 All-Star nods and a Silver Slugger is primed for a return to superstardom in 2022. His low-numbered 2021 Topps Series 2 Silver Pack SP autographs have already gained over $1,000 since news of his clean bill of health, demonstrating lingering demand for one of baseball’s most thrilling young stars.
Alek Thomas, Arizona Diamondbacks – A superb all-around prospect, Thomas made his MLB debut in late August and did nothing but hit, finishing with a .277 average and 4 home runs in 130 at-bats. His electric playmaking skills, high baseball IQ, and five-tool potential draw comparison to guys like Andrew McCutchen. Thomas’ 2021 Topps Chrome Sapphire auto (/50) recently sold for $300 on eBay, showing promise as a longtime D-Backs star who could emerge as a true blue chip. With his poise and all-skills profile, he represents a strong potential riser.
Jeremy Peña, Houston Astros – Taking over as the Astros’ primary shortstop in his rookie year, Peña proved more than capable of filling the shoes of Carlos Correa with a solid .253 average and 8 home runs. Still just 25, Peña has the defensive chops and developing bat to man shortstop for Houston for a long time. His 2021 Topps Chrome Sapphire auto (/50) changed hands for $200 recently, a strong initial showing for a foundational piece of the next Astros dynasty.
Bryce Jarvis, Arizona Diamondbacks – A late riser who quickly climbed into the D-Backs rotation, Jarvis produced quality starts and impressed with his poise against veteran lineups. His best outing was 7 shutout innings against NL West rival San Diego. The righty’s projectable 6’4 frame and impressive command portend a long career as a mid-rotation starter. Jarvis’ 2021 Topps Chrome Sapphire auto (/50) sold for $150 in March after his MLB debut, demonstrating early optimism around his potential as Arizona’s latest homegrown arm.
Jared Kelly, Chicago White Sox – White Sox fans were eager to see their 2019 3rd-rounder make the jump to the majors, and Kelly delivered by posting quality starts in each of his first two MLB outings in September. With a plus fastball-slider combo and growing command, the 23-year old righty looks like he could stick as a back-end starter or power reliever for Chicago. Kelly’s 2021 Topps Chrome Sapphire auto (/50) sold for $125, underscoring belief in his future as a big league regular.
Jarren Duran, Boston Red Sox – The dynamic 25-year old made his MLB debut with Boston in July and impressed with his blazing speed, line-drive swing, and ability to play all three outfield spots. Duran’s tools make him an enticing potential long-term piece for the Sox in center or left field. His 2021 Topps Chrome Sapphire auto (/50) recently changed hands for $100, validating early enthusiasm for a potential core piece of Boston’s future.
This covers some of the biggest risers among 2021 rookie cards to date based on their established in-game performances and long-term projections. Of course, the ultimate values of these cards will depend greatly on how these players develop further over the coming years. Injuries, position changes, or failures to meet expectations could negatively impact previously ‘hot’ rookies. But for focused collectors, 2021 provides a host of promising rookie cards from impact talents that still have their best years ahead of them.
