The 2022 New York Yankees had high expectations coming off a 92-70 record in 2021 that saw them make the AL Wild Card game. While they fell short of a World Series appearance, there were many standout individual performances that have collectors excited about the 2022 Yankees baseball card crop. Rookies and veterans alike had memorable seasons in the Bronx that will be immortalized in cardboard.
Top Yankees rookie cards to watch include OF Estevan Florial. After several years in the minors, Florial got his first extended MLB playing time in 2022 and impressed with his athleticism and defense. While he only hit .216 in 54 games, Florial’s five home runs, 12 RBI, and seven stolen bases tantalized scouts. As one of the organization’s top prospects for years, Florial’s rookie cards could appreciate in value if he breaks out in 2023.
Another exciting Yankees rookie is 3B/OF Oswaldo Cabrera. Cabrera got the call in August and slashed .231/.286/.385 with 5 HR in 56 games while playing solid defense at third base and in the outfield corners. The 23-year-old switch hitter showed impressive versatility and pop in his bat that makes his rookie cards a worthwhile investment, especially for the always-popular Yankees.
On the pitching side, righty Clarke Schmidt made his MLB debut in 2022 after battling injuries. In 13 appearances (5 starts), Schmidt posted a 3.33 ERA and 1.11 WHIP while showing three solid pitches. The 27-year-old former 1st round pick remains a high-upside arm and his rookie cards are a buy for those bullish on his future.
Beyond the rookies, veterans Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton had monster seasons at the plate that make their 2022 cards highly sought after. Judge smacked an AL-record 62 home runs in winning the Triple Crown while slashing .311/.425/.686. His mammoth shots and MVP caliber play have made Judge the face of the franchise. Stanton also stayed healthy, bashing 35 HR with an .875 OPS. Both superstars are primed for huge seasons again in 2023.
On the pitching side, Nestor Cortes Jr. emerged as the staff ace in 2022. In a career-best 163.1 innings across 28 appearances (27 starts), Cortes posted a league-leading 2.44 ERA and 0.99 WHIP. The crafty lefty uses an array of pitches to keep hitters off balance and became a Cy Young candidate. At just 27, Cortes has cemented himself as a core part of the Yankees rotation for years to come. His rising star status makes his 2022 cards a smart long-term hold.
Relievers Clay Holmes and Lou Trivino also had stellar seasons in pinstripes worth highlighting. Holmes joined the Yankees at the 2021 trade deadline and solidified the back-end of the bullpen in 2022 with a 1.46 ERA and 20 saves. Meanwhile, the durable Trivino threw 76.1 innings with a 2.61 ERA after coming over from Oakland. Both veteran righties bring reliability to the Yankees ‘pen that should keep their cards relevant.
While the Yankees fell short of the World Series, they had many individual accomplishments that make their 2022 cards compelling. Rookies like Florial, Cabrera and Schmidt offer breakout potential. Stars like Judge, Stanton and Cortes continue cementing their legacies in pinstripes. Underrated contributors like Holmes and Trivino provide steady production. With a talented young core and financial might, the Yankees remain perennial contenders. Their 2022 cardboard captures a season to remember in the Bronx. For collectors, Yankees cards from this year present opportunities for both enjoyment and potential future appreciation.
