The 2022 Bowman Baseball product release was highly anticipated in the baseball card community. As one of the premier rookie card releases each year, Bowman is known for featuring prospects and young stars just starting their MLB careers. This year’s set delivered with several standout rookie cards that have potential to be very valuable long term holdings. While it’s still early, here are some of the best 2022 Bowman Baseball cards collectors should be watching:
Adley Rutschman – Adley Rutschman had a breakout season in 2022 after being the top prospect in baseball for several years. As the #1 overall pick in 2019, Rutschman lived up to the hype by making his MLB debut with the Orioles and establishing himself as their franchise catcher. His paper rookie card is the clear star of the 2022 Bowman set. Graded gem mint 10 copies have already sold for over $1000 on the secondary market. As Rutschman continues to develop into an all-star player, this card could end up being one of the best modern rookie cards.
Julio Rodriguez – J-Rod had an electric rookie season that put him in the conversation for AL Rookie of the Year. His five tools skillset and charismatic playing style made him a fan favorite in Seattle. Like Rutschman, his Bowman paper rookie is highly sought after by collectors. Low serial numbered parallels could gain significant value if Rodriguez becomes a perennial all-star.
Bobby Witt Jr. – As the #2 pick in the 2019 draft, Bobby Witt Jr. reached the big leagues in 2022 and showed why he’s such a special talent. Playing for the Royals, Witt flashed plus power and speed at a premium position. His Bowman rookie card is a must-have for any collector following top prospects. With his all-around ability and marketability, Witt Jr. is poised for stardom which bodes well for this rookie card.
Spencer Torkelson – After a slow start to his MLB career in 2022, Spencer Torkelson started to tap into his power potential in the second half for Detroit. As the #1 pick in 2020, Torkelson has the pedigree and skillset that suggests he can be a perennial 30 home run hitter. His Bowman rookie remains one of the more affordable cards from top 2020 draft prospects. With continued development, Torkelson’s cardboard could see a nice uptick in the coming years.
Rookie Paper Autographs – While the base paper rookies are highly sought after, the autographed rookie cards from top prospects hold immense long term potential. Low serial numbered parallels of Rutschman, Rodriguez, Witt Jr., Torkelson, and other top prospects command big money today but could end up being true gems in collector’s portfolios. These autographed rookies are scarce and capture players at the beginning of their careers.
Top International Prospects – The 2022 Bowman set featured several talented international prospects who are poised to make an impact at the MLB level soon. The paper and autographed rookie cards of Dominican shortstop Robert Puason, Japanese outfielder Masataka Yoshida, and others are worth watching. With the continued globalization of baseball, international stars are gaining more mainstream popularity which bodes well for the long term value of their early cardboard.
Parallels and Memorabilia Cards – Beyond the base paper rookies, Bowman is known for its abundant parallel and memorabilia card inserts that provide collectors multiple options to chase their favorite players. Rainbow foil, green shimmer, black border, and 1/1 printing plates of top prospects hold tremendous long term potential. Autograph and memorabilia cards capture a tangible piece of a player’s career and can gain significant worth if that player emerges as a star.
The 2022 Bowman Baseball release established several rookies who look primed to be franchise cornerstones and all-star players for years to come. Their rookie cards, especially top serial numbered parallels and autographs, present intriguing long term speculations for savvy collectors. While results on the field will ultimately dictate future values, this year’s Bowman class has provided numerous candidates with the talent to drive their cardboard to new heights.
