The 2022 Topps Baseball complete set features a wide variety of rookie cards, superstar veterans, and parallels that can hold significant value. While buying the entire base set for a few hundred dollars is certainly an attainable goal, savvy collectors know where to focus their attention within the set to find the hidden gems. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the top rookies, short prints, and parallels from the 2022 Topps Flagship set that are poised to appreciate in the years to come.
2022 was touted as one of the best rookie classes in recent memory and Topps loaded the set with prospects. Perhaps the most coveted rookie is Julio Rodriguez of the Seattle Mariners. As the third overall pick in the 2018 MLB Draft, Rodriguez skyrocketed through the minors and made his MLB debut in 2022. He immediately became a star, slashing .284/.345/.509 with 28 home runs and 25 stolen bases while playing exceptional defense in center field. His prospect pedigree, rookie stats, and playoff performances have collectors buzzing about his long term potential. Reds pitcher Hunter Greene and Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman are other top rookies to watch as well that could become big stars.
Parallels are where collectors can find premium versions of cards that often hold huge value premiums. Perhaps the scarcest parallel in the 2022 Topps set are the ‘rainbow foil’ parallels, which feature unique foil patterns on front. Numbers are extremely low, making these highly sought after by parallel collectors. Superfractors, which feature the refractors design but with inverted colors, are 1-of-1 parallel variants. These are virtually impossible to complete outside of group breaks. They carry a massive premium currently and are icons for true high-end collectors. Additionally, Topps Chrome Refractors parallel the base Topps design but with a stunning refracted parallel. These hold huge value as some of the most visually appealing parallels available.
When it comes to short prints, the 2022 Topps flagship set featured a subset of ‘Field Trip’ cards that took career stats and accomplishments to a whole new artistic level. There were only 99 copies of each ‘Field Trip’ card inserted throughout the massive print run. These have already become tough pulls and command high values due to their rarity. Additionally, Topps had ‘Laboratory Experiment’ photo variations which twisted an existing player’s photo into something unusual. These were also scarce pulls and offer collectors something truly unique. Topps also brought back their ‘rainbow foil’ parallels this year which have super vibrant color foil patterns. With very low print runs, these parallel versions of stars are already in high demand.
Veteran superstars like Aaron Judge, Mike Trout, and Shohei Ohtani will always hold value as certified Hall of Fame talents. Their base rookies from years past still garner big prices, so their current year cards remain highly collected as well. Autographs and memorabilia cards featuring these mega-stars are the true high-dollar hits. Topps loaded this year’s products with prized patches and autographs of superstar talent. Luxury autos of stars on-card can fetch thousands. 1/1 parallel variations take values to entirely new levels with their uniqueness.
The 2022 Topps Baseball Flagship release saw jaw-dropping rookie classes paired with scarce parallels, striking short prints, and high-caliber veteran talents throughout. While collecting the entire base set is a worthy endeavor, focusing collector energy on the prized rookies, parallels, and variations mentioned here is sure to yield cards with staying power. The rookie class of 2022 looks to be one for the ages, so their cards could end up being some of the most historically significant from this set. With strong performances on the field continuing to drive interest higher, now is the time to strategically seek out the premium pieces within the 2022 Topps world before prices elevate further.
