Donruss has been producing baseball cards for decades, with their 2022 set continuing their tradition of highlighting the biggest stars in the game. While rookie cards of emerging talents always hold potential value, seasoned veterans remain fan favorites that drive interest in the hobby. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most coveted Donruss cards from their latest release.
Shohei Ohtani continues to captivate collectors as one of baseball’s modern marvels. The 2021 AL MVP is the sole focus of Donruss’ Ohtani Prizm card, showing him in his intimidating windup. His autos and parallels consistently sell out, with coveted 1/1 versions fetching thousands. Ohtani is poised to be one of the defining stars of this generation, meaning his rookie cards should retain and grow in value for years to come.
Mike Trout is arguably the greatest active player, and his Prizm card is certainly one of the 2022 set’s most iconic. Captured in his fluid batting stance, Trout has been a donruss staple for over a decade. Numbered parallels like Gold /10 and Black 1/1 are endlessly sought after for Trout PC collectors. Even base Trout rookies from his early Donruss years command big money today, a testament to his sustained greatness and likelihood of a plaque in Cooperstown.
Fernando Tatis Jr.,another young superstar, has committed his long-term future to the Padres. His Prizm shows off his flair for the dramatic, and his autographed rookie cards remain a hot ticket item. Injuries slowed his 2022 season but haven’t dampened believers in his potential to be a true “five-tool stud” for years to come. Low-numbered hits like Gold Prizm /10 and Platnium /5 could appreciate substantially if Tatis fulfills his destiny.
Two-way Japanese sensation Seiya Suzuki had an impressive MLB debut with the Cubs in 2022 after coming over from NPB. His flawless swing makes him a natural for the Donruss design aesthetic. Suzuki has proven he can hit at the highest level and his American rookie cards could appreciate like past NPB stars like Ohtani who made successful transitions. Numbered Prizms and autos are flying off shelves as collectors anticipate a bright future.
Rookies Spencer Strider and Michael Harris II burst onto the scene for the 102-win Braves. Strider’s Electric Prizm highlights his elite late-inning stuff, while Harris’ jaw-dropping catches in center field are living highlights. As established contributors on a perennial contender, first-year cards of these young Braves have room to appreciate if they cement their roles. On-card autos and parallels under 10 copies could become long-term keepsakes.
Of course, legendary veterans like Yadi Molina, Albert Pujols and Miguel Cabrera also receive Prizm treatment as all-time greats in the sunset of their careers. While their best days may be behind them, collectors will always want to commemorate their awe-inspiring careers in hobby icons like Donruss. Lower numbered parallels and patches could gain value as these players enter retirement and Cooperstown.
In conclusion, Topps may own the MLBPA license, but Donruss satisfies collector appetites with quality photography, designs and star subject matter. Powerhouse rookies, rising talents and living legends all receive the Prizm treatment. With such a wide range of coveted cards at different price points, Donruss 2022 promises opportunities for player collectors, investors and historians of the game alike. Sustained sales and secondary market demand should buoy the long-term prospects of this exciting release.
