The MLB season always brings excitement for new players making their debut. Rookie cards for star players can become extremely valuable collectors items. Here’s a look at some of the top rookie cards on the market in 2022 for baseball’s newest stars:
Wander Franco – Tampa Bay Rays – 2020 Bowman Chrome Purple Refractor Auto 1/1: At just 21 years old, Franco had a monster rookie season in 2021 that showed why he is considered a true five-tool superstar. His rare 2020 Chrome Purple Refractor auto /1 is the crown jewel of his rookie cards and already one of the most valuable modern baseball cards ever printed. Last year, a PSA 10 Gem Mint example sold for a record $400,000, showing just how coveted these ultra-rare Franco patches are. Even raw non-auto versions have fetched over $20,000. All of Franco’s Bowman Chrome color refractors are highly desired by collectors.
Bobby Witt Jr. – Kansas City Royals – 2021 Topps Chrome Rainbow Foil Auto 1/1: As the #2 overall pick in 2019, Witt arrived in the bigs with huge expectations in 2022 after dominating the minors. His phenomenal speed, power, and glove already have scouts comparing him to a young Alex Rodriguez. Naturally, his 1/1 Topps Chrome Rainbow Foil Auto is considered the premier rookie in what is shaping up to be a massive collection for Witt. A PSA 10 could shatter Franco’s record price tag if Witt keeps developing into a perennial all-star.
Juan Soto – Washington Nationals – 2018 Bowman Chrome Prospects Auto Refractor: At just 23 years old, Soto has already accomplished so much – 2 All Star appearances, a World Series title, Silver Slugger award, and now a huge $440 million extension. But collectors still drool over his early prospect autos from before he was a superstar, like his coveted 2018 Bowman Chrome Auto Refractor serial numbered to just /150 copies. Graded PSA 10 examples have sold for north of $15,000, showing the investment potential of recognizing stars early in their development.
Riley Greene – Detroit Tigers – 2021 Topps Chrome Auto Rainbow Foil /99: As the #5 overall pick in 2019, Greene developed quickly through the minors and got his first taste of the bigs in 2022 at just 21 years old while showing off prodigious power and hitting ability. His elite 2021 Topps Chrome Rainbow Foil Auto numbered to just 99 copies is the clear centerpiece of any Greene PC and a prized possession for any collector of young MLB stars. A PSA 10 could challenge $10,000 given Greene’s breakout potential.
Julio Rodriguez – Seattle Mariners – 2021 Bowman Chrome Auto Green Refractor /99: J-Rod arrived with a bang in Seattle, showcasing rare 5-tool talent and immediately establishing himself as a fan favorite and building block for the future. While all of his 2021 Bowman Chrome prospect cards are hot, the Green Refractor Auto /99 stands above the rest as the true flagship. Rodriguez turned in an impressive rookie campaign to justify why this card and others in his collection could appreciate significantly with sustained MLB success.
Adley Rutschman – Baltimore Orioles – 2019 Bowman Chrome Auto: As the #1 overall pick in 2019 and top catching prospect, Rutschman finally made his much-anticipated MLB debut in 2022. While he had some ups and downs as expected, his offensive skills and leadership drew immediate praise. With stardom predicted, his elegant 2019 Bowman Chrome Auto remains a prized long-term investment for collectors gambling on his All-Star potential. A PSA 10 could net six figures down the road.
Bobby Miller – Los Angeles Dodgers – 2021 Bowman Chrome Auto Rainbow Foil /99: The Dodgers pitching factory struck gold with Miller, selected in the 3rd round of the 2020 draft. He cruised through the minors and had one of the biggest velocity jumps of any prospect. At just 23 years old with a high 90s fastball and sharp breaking stuff, Miller is poised to dominate MLB batters for years as a frontline starter. His flashy Rainbow Foil Auto is a fan favorite collectors chase.
Spencer Strider – Atlanta Braves – 2021 Bowman Chrome Auto: Strider exploded onto the scene for the defending champs, using his electrifying 100+ mph heat to dominate batters from the bullpen as a rookie. Scouts were impressed enough by his dominance that he may get a chance to start, which could take his potential to an even higher level. For now, his affordable rookie cards like the basic Bowman Chrome Auto hold intrigue since Strider may have just scratched the surface of his stardom.
Oneil Cruz – Pittsburgh Pirates – 2019 Bowman Chrome Auto RC: At a massive 6’7, Cruz is a true physical marvel who also shows budding power and speed. After tearing up the minors, Cruz got his first extended MLB look in 2022 while still just 23 years old. With evident star power and highlight-reel worthy plays, Cruz captured fans’ attention. His early rookie cards remain a prudent long term investment, as the “Oneil Cruz Experience” may just be getting started in Pittsburgh.
While values can vary greatly, these 10 young stars and their select rookie cards represent some of the most coveted baseball card investments on the market heading into 2023. Sustained success and milestones will only serve to further increase demand and raise prices for these elite talents’ formative cardboard over the long run. It’s always exciting to watch future Hall of Famers in their earliest career stages through the lens of their rookie cards.
