The 2022 Topps baseball card set featured some major rookies and star players that have already produced some highly valuable rookie cards. While it’s still early, here are some of the top standouts from the 2022 Topps series that are being snatched up by collectors and could end up appreciating dramatically in value over the long run.
Adley Rutschman rookie card (Topps Chrome RC #RC1) – As the top overall prospect in baseball and the No. 1 pick in the 2019 MLB Draft, expectations were super high for Rutschman from the start. He had a strong debut for the Baltimore Orioles in 2022 and seems poised for stardom as their franchise catcher. His Topps Chrome rookie card is arguably the most coveted from the set already, with PSA 10 gem mint copies regularly fetching over $500. As Rutschman’s career progresses, this could grow into a true elite rookie card in the hobby.
Bobby Witt Jr. rookie card (Topps Chrome RC #RC2) – Witt had a tremendous rookie season for the Kansas City Royals after being their No. 2 overall pick in 2019. The shortstop showed five-tool talent and star potential. Like Rutschman, Witt’s Topps Chrome rookie has demanded big prices, with PSA 10s reaching the $400-500 range. If Witt continues developing into the all-around player he seems capable of being, his rookie card prices will only trend up over the years.
Julio Rodriguez rookie card (Topps Chrome RC #RC4) – Rodriguez was arguably the most exciting rookie in baseball in 2022 for the Seattle Mariners. The outfielder/shortstop showed tantalizing tools and production, with an electrifying postseason too. His Topps Chrome RC has already topped $300 PSA 10. Rodriguez seems to have true megastar potential, and if he fulfills it, this rookie card could end up as one of the most valuable from the entire 2022 Topps set.
Spencer Strider rookie card (Topps Chrome RC #RC15) – Strider burst onto the MLB scene out of nowhere for the Atlanta Braves, posting dominant numbers largely as a starting pitcher in his first full season. The righty relies heavily on overpowering velocity and could be a frontline starter for a long time. His Topps Chrome rookie card price has seen a huge boost, with PSA 10s now valued around $200-250 based on recent eBay sales.
Rookie cards of standout newcomers like Glassnow, Harris, and Swanson have also gained traction. But two veterans stand out as especially valuable cards from 2022 Topps due to offensive dominance:
Mike Trout base card (#132) – It’s hard to find a more valuable modern-day player than Trout. Even a base card of the superstar Angels outfielder from the new Topps series holds value, with PSA 10s reaching $75-100. Trout is still in his prime and remains the best all-around player in MLB, ensuring any cards featuring him, even common base ones, retain strong collector interest.
Shohei Ohtani base card (#174) – After back-to-back incredible seasons showcasing his skills both pitching and hitting, Ohtani has emerged as the game’s most unique modern star. A simple base card of his from 2022 Topps is generating heat in the collector market, with PSA 10 prices reaching $50-75 currently. As Ohtani’s two-way exploits continue grabbing headlines, his cards will stay hot commodities.
Some other notable rookies and short prints from 2022 Topps that could appreciate significantly with strong MLB careers include George Kirby, Grayson Rodriguez, CJ Abrams, Ender Inciarte SP, and Byron Buxton SP. But especially for the marquee rookies, it’s all about how they develop from here. Stars like Rutschman, Witt Jr., and Rodriguez in particular have early rookie cards from this year’s set that could end up being true blue chip investments if they ascend to the elite levels their talent suggests are possible. 2022 Topps has already provided several cards that could become highly valuable in the long run.
While it’s still very early, the 2022 Topps baseball card set is shaping up to include some potential all-time valuable rookies and stars. Top talents Adley Rutschman, Bobby Witt Jr., and Julio Rodriguez got their careers off to scorching starts and their rookie cards are already highly sought. Plus veteran superstars Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani continue to generate strong demand for any cards featuring them, given their unprecedented modern-day skills. With the careers of these young stars still unfolding, 2022 Topps could end up yielding several legendary rookie cards and investments over the next decade plus if they live up to expectations. Only time will tell just how valuable this year’s cards become!
