Baseball cards have long been a popular collectible and investment for both casual fans and serious investors. With another season of Major League Baseball on the horizon, now is an excellent time to consider adding some baseball cards to your investment portfolio. Here are some of the top baseball cards experts recommend focusing on in 2022 based on the players and the potential for value growth.

Shohei Ohtani (2021 Topps Chrome Refractor Auto RC #175) – Ohtani has quickly become one of the most exciting and unique talents in baseball as a two-way star capable of pitching and hitting at an elite level. His rookie cards have skyrocketed in value since his breakout 2021 season where he was named the American League MVP. Many believe Ohtani has a chance to become one of the all-time greats, and his rookie cards, especially autographed refractors like the 2021 Topps Chrome, have plenty of upside left as collectors anticipate his Hall of Fame career. Graded gem mint 10 copies of this coveted rookie card recently sold for over $10,000, showing strong continued demand.

Juan Soto (2018 Bowman Chrome Prospect Auto RC #BCP70) – Still just 23 years old, Soto has already established himself as one of the best pure hitters in baseball. He continues to improve and stay healthy, giving investors confidence his production will remain elite for many years. Soto’s rookie cards increased exponentially in value after his monster 2019 and 2020 seasons. The high-end 2018 Bowman Chrome Prospect auto refractor remains one of the key rookie cards for Soto collectors. With a flawless 10 grade, this card has sold for over $25,000, leaving room for more growth if Soto fulfills his superstar potential.

Wander Franco (2021 Topps Chrome Refractor Auto RC #171) – Franco took baseball by storm in 2021 after a mid-season call-up where he showcased his five-tool talent and hit over .300 as one of the youngest players in the league. He is considered a “generational” type of prospect, and his rookie cards reflect the immense hype around his future. The 2021 Topps Chrome refractor auto is the premier rookie for Franco PC’s, with a PSA 10 recently selling for over $15,000. Franco has superstar written all over him, making his rookie cards some of the highest upside investments in the hobby for years to come.

Mike Trout (2009 Topps Chrome RC #81) – As arguably the best all-around player of his generation, Trout’s rookie cards remain some of the most sought-after in the hobby. While his early cards are out of reach for most collectors pricewise, his 2009 Topps Chrome rookie still offers upside. Trout just turned 30 and shows no signs of slowing down, potentially giving him 5-7 more peak seasons. A PSA 10 of this iconic rookie has sold for over $50,000 and could push $100,000 by the time Trout’s career is over if he continues on his Hall of Fame trajectory.

Ronald Acuña Jr. (2018 Bowman Chrome Prospect Auto RC #BCP70) – Before suffering a season-ending ACL tear in 2021, Acuña was well on his way to superstardom and MVP consideration. Still just 23, he is expected to fully recover and resume his 5-tool contributions at an elite level for the Braves. His 2018 Bowman Chrome Prospects auto refractor rookie remains one of the more affordable options for top-tier young stars. Graded gem mint 10 copies have sold for over $15,000, leaving room to appreciate further if Acuña fulfills his potential as a perennial All-Star.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (2018 Bowman Chrome Prospect Auto RC #BCP70) – Like Acuña, Guerrero came into his own in 2021 by winning the AL batting title and establishing himself as one of baseball’s most feared hitters. At just 22 years old, he is just starting to enter his prime years. His 2018 Bowman Chrome Prospects auto refractor rookie card remains a bargain compared to other young stars at this level. With a 10 grade, it has sold for over $10,000 but looks to have plenty more upside as Guerrero cements his superstar status.

Fernando Tatis Jr. (2019 Topps Chrome RC #151) – When healthy, Tatis plays the game with as much flash and excitement as any player. He has established himself as a true five-tool talent and franchise cornerstone, making his rookie cards a must-have. The 2019 Topps Chrome refractor remains the key rookie and has already gained significant value, with a PSA 10 recently selling for over $15,000. Tatis is still just 23 with his best years ahead, leaving room for his rookies to appreciate further.

Jacob deGrom (2011 Topps Chrome RC #145) – As arguably the best pitcher of his generation, deGrom’s rookie cards remain undervalued compared to position players of similar caliber. He just turned 34 but shows no signs of slowing down, potentially giving him 2-4 more elite seasons left. The 2011 Topps Chrome rookie has room to catch up, with a PSA 10 recently selling for over $7,000. For risk-averse investors, deGrom’s rookie provides a relatively affordable entry point into one of the game’s true aces.

Ronald Acuña Jr. (2018 Topps Finest Auto RC #157) – For Acuña collectors seeking a more affordable alternative to the Bowman Chrome auto, the 2018 Topps Finest refractor auto rookie remains a solid option. Graded mint 9 copies have recently sold in the $3,000-$4,000 range, showing steady demand. Acuña’s superstar upside makes all of his top rookies great long-term investments, and the Finest provides exposure at a more accessible price point than the higher-end Bowman Chrome.

Pete Alonso (2019 Topps Chrome RC #151) – As a two-time Home Run Derby champion and one of baseball’s true power threats, Alonso has lived up to the hype of his rookie season. His 2019 Topps Chrome rookie card has appreciated nicely and looks to have more room to grow. A PSA 10 recently sold for over $4,000, showing continued strength in the 27-year-old slugger’s market. Alonso looks poised for many more 30+ home run seasons, supporting his rookie cards.

When choosing baseball cards to invest in for 2022, focusing on the rookies of young superstars like Ohtani, Soto, Franco, Acuña, Guerrero and Tatis provides the most upside over the long term. Established veterans like Trout and deGrom also offer growth potential given their place among the game’s all-time greats. And rising young talents like Alonso offer a solid blend of upside and stability. With another exciting MLB season on deck, now is a great time to add top rookie cards to a portfolio to capitalize on future appreciation.