The 2023 baseball season will see the San Diego Padres looking to build on their recent success and contention for the World Series. As one of the most exciting teams in baseball with a strong core of young stars, Padres cards are always popular with collectors. Here is an in-depth guide to some of the top Padres players to watch for in the upcoming season and their baseball card prospects.
Fernando Tatis Jr.: Even while sidelined for most of 2022 due to injury and suspension, Tatis remains one of the most electrifying players in the game and a superstar on baseball cards. When healthy, he is a true five-tool talent who can do it all on the field. His rare combination of power, speed, and flair make him box-office gold. As long as he can stay on the field in 2023, Tatis rookie cards and prospects look primed to skyrocket in value. Even recent issues have not diminished his star power with collectors.
Manny Machado: As the highest-paid Padre and team leader, Machado continues to churn out All-Star caliber seasons in San Diego. A consistent .300 hitter with great power, Machado cards hold steady value. While not the flashiest player, his longevity and on-field production ensure his cards remain relevant. Upper Deck, Topps, and Bowman products frequently feature Machado, and refractor or autographed parallels always gain attention from collectors. Machado remains a foundational player for the Padres franchise.
Juan Soto: After being acquired from the Nationals in one of the biggest trades ever, Soto electrified Padres fans down the stretch in 2022. Still just 24, Soto has already established himself as one of baseball’s best hitters and his cards exploded in demand upon joining San Diego. Topps, Bowman, and Panini all flooded the market with Soto Padres rookie cards to capitalize. Continued excellence in 2023 could propel Soto’s Padres cards to the heights of other young superstars like Acuna and Tatis.
Joe Musgrove: As the ‘ace’ of the staff and 2021 no-hitter hero, Musgrove established himself as a fan-favorite in San Diego. His sharp slider and competitive fire make him a workhorse on the mound. Musgrove rookies remain affordable compared to other recent stars, but steadily gain value as he continues producing quality seasons in the rotation. Authenticated game-worn memorabilia pieces from his no-hitter command top dollar as tangible representations of franchise history.
Blake Snell: Once a Cy Young winner with the Rays, Snell’s stuff can dominate when on point. Inconsistency led to struggles in 2021 which dampened collector interest. If Snell can round back into ace form, his rookie refractor parallels could regain lost luster. As a lefty with electric stuff, Snell possesses breakout potential that could revitalize value in his existing cards and those produced for 2023. A return to Cy Young contention would do wonders.
Cronenworth, Kim, and Grisham: Young core position players like Jake Cronenworth, Kim Ha-seong, and Trent Grisham provide steady offense and defense. While not superstar names, these players comprise a talented supporting cast that helps anchor the Padres lineup. Their rookie cards remain affordable but hold collector value long-term as key cogs for the organization. Refractors, autographs, and numbered parallels command the most attention on the secondary market. As Padres regulars, these players’ cards are worth monitoring.
Rookies to Watch: Top Padres prospects like Shortstop C.J. Abrams and Outfielder Robert Hassell III made their MLB debuts down the stretch in 2022 and will look to establish themselves next season. Abrams possesses elite athleticism and speed while Hassell profiles as a well-rounded player. Their early rookie cards including Topps Chrome, Bowman Chrom, and Topps Paper are primed to gain traction if these young talents perform as expected.
The 2023 MLB season promises another exciting campaign for Padres baseball and their coveted cardboard counterparts. With a mix of established stars and rising young talent, there are many compelling storylines surrounding Padres players that make their baseball cards a stable investment area for collectors. As the franchise eyes its first World Series triumph, Padres cardboard seems poised for increased demand and appreciation among the hobby.
