Donruss released their 2022 baseball card set in March of this year, continuing their tradition of producing affordable yet stylish cards for the modern collector. While not as large in scale as some of the flagship brands, Donruss sets have developed a loyal following thanks to innovative designs, throwback aesthetics, and the chance to pull rookie cards of emerging stars.
With the rise of third-party grading over the past decade, many collectors now prefer to slab their most valuable cards in plastic holders from companies like PSA, BGS, SGC and others. This provides authentication, protects the card surface, and can significantly boost resale value – especially for rookie cards. As such, it’s become quite common to see newly released Donruss rookies and other hits quickly cross over into the graded market.
Some of the top graded rookies from Donruss 2022 so far include Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez, Baltimore Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman, Detroit Tigers pitcher Jackson Jobe, and Boston Red Sox shortstop Marcelo Mayer. All four players were top prospects and are expected to be franchise cornerstones – making their rookie cards some of the most sought after on the modern baseball card market.
Julio Rodriguez had a breakout rookie season that saw him named an All-Star, with many considering him the current favorite for American League Rookie of the Year honors. His Donruss rookie cards have seen tremendous graded price growth, with PSA 10 examples now regularly selling for $300-400 raw. Even PSA 9s are commanding $150-200, showing strong collector confidence in Rodriguez as a true superstar.
Adley Rutschman was the #1 overall pick in the 2019 draft and is viewed as the future catcher for the Orioles. While injuries slowed his debut, scouts still rave about his all-around skills and leadership. PSA 10 Rutschman rookies from Donruss 2022 have already eclipsed the $200 mark, a huge return on investment considering hobby boxes still sell for MSRP. SGC Black label 9.5s have also cracked triple digits.
Jackson Jobe was selected third overall by Detroit in 2021 and made his pro debut this season, showing three plus pitches that could make him a frontline starter. His Donruss rookie remains one of the more affordable high-end graded rookies at $75-100 raw in PSA 10. Even PSA 9s hold steady around $40-50, signaling continued belief in Jobe’s future potential.
Though he spent 2022 in the minors, Marcelo Mayer is already turning heads in Red Sox camp with his advanced hitting ability and athleticism. PSA 10 Donruss rookies have reached as high as $150 on recent eBay sales, with 9.5 BGS Black labels close behind at $125. Given Boston’s storied history of developing shortstops, Mayer could be a true star if he reaches his lofty ceiling.
Beyond the headliner rookies, several other notable young talents and veterans from Donruss 2022 have already transitioned to the graded market:
Los Angeles Angels pitcher Reid Detmers: The 2021 AL Rookie of the Year saw his Donruss rookie reach $80-100 in PSA 10 after a solid sophomore season.
Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Alek Manoah: Consistently one of the toughest pitchers to square up, Manoah’s PSA 10 rookie holds at $60-80 with upside.
Seattle Mariners pitcher George Kirby: Showed ace potential as a rookie, with PSA 10s trading hands near $50 despite missing time with injury.
Philadelphia Phillies slugger Bryson Stott: Hit .234 with 15 HR in his first full season, but PSA 10 rookie holds near $40 with his upside.
Los Angeles Dodgers star Mookie Betts: Perennial MVP candidate whose PSA 10 Donruss base card reaches $30-40 despite abundant print run.
New York Yankees ace Gerrit Cole: Even for a established ace, his PSA 10 sells around $25-30, underscoring Cole’s star power.
Atlanta Braves star Ronald Acuña Jr.: PSA 10 of his base card found new support at $20-25 after healthy return from ACL tear.
While not reaching the heights of some flagship brands, Donruss rookie cards – especially when graded – continue finding an engaged collector base willing to speculate on future stardom. With its classic designs and accessibly priced products, the brand remains a fun entry point for both breakers and investors chasing the next generation of baseball greats. As more of the 2022 set crosses over to the slabbed market, there’s ample opportunity to land affordable shares of tomorrow’s biggest names.
