The 2022 MLB season saw another highly-touted rookie class make their debuts in the major leagues. From top draft picks to international signings, this group impressed right away with their skills on the field. For baseball card collectors, these rookie seasons present opportunities to acquire cards of future star players early in their careers. Here are some of the top 2022 rookie cards to seek out as potential long-term investments:
Adley Rutschman, C (Baltimore Orioles): As the top pick in the 2019 draft and consensus #1 prospect in baseball, Rutschman was one of the most hyped debuts of the year. He showed why with a solid offensive campaign, displaying strong plate discipline and power potential. His autographed rookie cards have already seen a jump in value as one of the premier catching prospects of the last decade. Long-term, Rutschman has perennial All-Star upside and should be a cornerstone for the O’s rebuild.
Bobby Witt Jr., SS/3B (Kansas City Royals): After spending most of 2021 in the minors, Witt exploded onto the MLB scene in the second half with tremendous power and athleticism at a premium position. He established himself as the future face of the Royals franchise. Witt’s rookie cards were hot commodities all year and remain so as he looks to contend for rookie of the year honors. He has true five-tool superstar potential if he stays healthy.
Spencer Torkelson, 1B (Detroit Tigers): The top pick from 2020 had high expectations that he struggled to meet initially, but showed marked improvement as the season went on. Torkelson will likely settle in at first base long-term where his left-handed power bat could make him a perennial 30+ homer threat. His on-card autographed rookie cards dipped early but look like a bargain now for someone who should develop into a middle-of-the-order force.
Jeremy Peña, SS (Houston Astros): Absolutely no one expected Peña to emerge as the Astros’ starting shortstop this quickly with the loss of Carlos Correa to free agency. But he took the job and ran with it, providing excellent defense and timely hitting to help the team reach the World Series. As the potential long-term successor to Correa, Peña’s cards have rocketed up in value and he has the skillset to develop into an all-around star.
Seiya Suzuki, OF (Chicago Cubs): In his first season after starring in Japan’s NPB, Suzuki showed no signs of culture shock by batting over .300 with 15 home runs for the Cubs. He displayed premium bat-to-ball skills and should only get better as he acclimates fully to MLB pitching. His on-card autographs remain relatively affordable compared to production and he could develop 5×5 potential if power develops further.
Oneil Cruz, SS/3B (Pittsburgh Pirates): With his immense 6’7″ frame and explosive tools, Cruz is one of the game’s most tantalizing prospects. He got extended playing time in the second half and showed why with prodigious home runs and an absolute cannon for an arm. At just 23, Cruz still has rough edges to smooth out but huge offensive upside. His rookie cards are primed for value growth as he cements a role.
George Kirby, SP (Seattle Mariners): As one of three 1st round picks from the 2019 draft class to debut, Kirby shined with great command of three quality pitches. That control is rare for such a hard thrower and points to him having a long and successful career as a mid-rotation starter. His cards are quite affordable now for someone with all-star caliber ceiling.
Casey Mize, SP (Detroit Tigers): After undergoing Tommy John surgery, Mize returned with much better control and looks primed for a breakout in 2023. When healthy, he shows plus stuff across the board headlined by a filthy splitter. If he puts it all together, Mize has ace potential and his rebound has collectors excited about his redemptive storyline.
Tyler Wells, SP (Baltimore Orioles): Originally drafted as a pitcher, Wells moved to the bullpen and thrived after years of injuries derailed his starter career. Now in the rotation, he maintained that success with excellent control and a versatile four-pitch mix. His long road to the majors enhances odds of longevity and makes cards a reasonable gamble.
Nolan Gorman, 2B/3B (St. Louis Cardinals): After a dominant half-season in the minors, Gorman forced his way to St. Louis with prodigious power and patience at the plate. He struggled to adjust but has the skillset to hit 30+ homers annually from a middle infield spot. His autographed cards are priced accordingly based on huge offensive potential.
Nick Gonzales, 2B (Pittsburgh Pirates): An offensive machine in the minors, Gonzales made it to the show but struggled initially with a low strikeout, high contact approach. He’s just 23 with feel to hit for average and power as he gains experience. His tools and pedigree from New Mexico State keep rookie cards as solid long-term investments.
Some other notable 2022 rookie bats to watch include catcher Logan O’Hoppe of the Phillies, shortstop Oneil Cruz and third baseman Cal Mitchell of the Pirates, and outfielder Esteury Ruiz of the Padres. On the pitching side, keep an eye on Mariners starter George Kirby, Giants flamethrower Cole Waites, and Reds closer Alexis Diaz. This rookie class showed impact talent and upside that makes their early career cards compelling speculations for collectors. Many of these players look ready to serve as franchise cornerstones for years to come.
