When it comes to investing in baseball cards, rookie cards often provide the best opportunity for appreciation. These early career cards issued before a player establishes themselves can see huge gains if that player goes on to stardom. With so many rookie cards out there from decades of baseball history, it’s not always clear which present the best options. Doing research into the players, their careers, and card values over time is important. Here are some of the top baseball rookie cards that could be worth targeting purchases for now and holding long-term:
Shohei Ohtani, 2018 Topps Baseball – As a true two-way star displaying elite skills both as a pitcher and hitter, Ohtani’s potential and popularity has no limits. He remains one of the most exciting young talents in the game. His 2018 Topps rookie card remains reasonably affordable now under $100, but that price seems sure to rise significantly if he stays healthy and lives up to expectations over the next few seasons.
Juan Soto, 2018 Topps Baseball – At just 22 years old, Soto has already established himself as one of MLB’s best hitters and a cornerstone for the Nationals. He has two All-Star appearances and a World Series title under his belt. His rookie card from 2018 Topps still hovers around $50-75, making it a bargain given his superstar status and young age. As he continues producing at the plate, this card’s value will only grow.
Ronald Acuña Jr., 2018 Topps Update Baseball – Acuña burst onto the scene with the Braves in 2018 and hasn’t slowed down, establishing himself as a true five-tool talent. He’s already a two-time All-Star at just 24. While his flagship rookie from 2018 Topps sells for $100-150, his more scarce 2018 Topps Update rookie remains under $200 and presents an opportunity for strong returns.
Fernando Tatis Jr., 2019 Topps Baseball – Tatis has quickly become one of the faces of MLB as one of the game’s most exciting and dynamic young stars playing for the Padres. He’s already a two-time Silver Slugger and will likely rack up many more accolades over the next decade. His flagship rookie from 2019 Topps still sells in the $75-100 range, a bargain for a player who could be a perennial MVP candidate.
Wander Franco, 2021 Topps Baseball – While still early in his career, Franco has done nothing but impress since debuting in 2021. He’s already regarded as the best pure hitter in the minors and could develop into a true five-tool superstar. His rookie card value has settled around $50-75 after a peak above $100. For a player with his pedigree and upside, this presents a solid long-term investment opportunity.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr., 2019 Topps Baseball – As the son of a Hall of Famer, Guerrero arrived in the bigs with huge expectations. While it took him time to adjust, he’s emerged as an All-Star caliber player who could be a cornerstone for the Blue Jays for years. His rookie card remains around $60-80, a reasonable gamble on a still-young slugger with the skills to be a perennial MVP candidate.
Riley Greene, 2022 Topps – The No. 5 overall pick in the 2019 draft, Greene showcased his five-tool talents in the minors and debuted for the Tigers in 2022. Still just 22, he has all the tools to develop into a true star centerpiece for Detroit. His flagship rookie card sells in the $40-60 range, a low risk bet on a player who could have a decade-long MLB career ahead of him.
Jasson Dominguez, 2021 Topps Chrome – While he hasn’t reached the bigs yet, Dominguez generated immense hype as a 16-year-old international signing by the Yankees. Regarded as one of the best international prospects ever, he has a chance to be a true five-tool star if he develops as expected. His scarce 2021 Chrome rookie sells around $75-100, not a bad gamble on a potential future superstar still in A-ball.
Adley Rutschman, 2022 Topps – As the No. 1 pick in the 2019 draft, Rutschman lived up to expectations in the minors and debuted for the Orioles in 2022. Already regarded as an elite defensive catcher, he has the bat to be an All-Star for years in Baltimore. His flagship rookie sells around $40-60, a low-risk bet on a player who could be a franchise cornerstone.
Bobby Witt Jr., 2021 Topps – The second overall pick in the 2019 draft, Witt showcased plus power and speed in the minors before debuting with the Royals in 2022. Still just 23, he has the all-around skill set to be an annual All-Star and face of the franchise. His flagship Topps rookie sells in the $40-60 range, a bargain for a player with his pedigree and upside still early in his career.
While risks remain with any investment, focusing on rookies from established stars, elite prospects, or young players already making an impact increases chances of strong returns. Doing research on a player’s tools, minor league performance and role on their MLB team can help identify those with the highest upside. For collectors looking to invest, these 10 rookie cards offer compelling opportunities.
