The 2020 Topps baseball card set featured many highly anticipated rookie cards after a strong 2019 MLB season that saw the emergence of young stars like Pete Alonso, Yordan Alvarez, and Fernando Tatis Jr. While the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the 2020 season in numerous ways, it did not diminish the hype around some of the top rookie prospects who made their MLB debuts. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best 2020 Topps rookie cards to chase, with analysis of each player’s potential and the card’s relative scarcity and value.
One of the most sought-after rookie cards from 2020 Topps was Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Brendan McKay. As the 4th overall pick in the 2017 MLB Draft, McKay brought tremendous two-way talent to the big leagues as both a pitcher and hitter. While injuries limited his playing time in 2020, McKay showed flashes of why he’s such a special talent. His rookie card is one of the scarcest from the set, as McKay only had a brief cup of coffee in the majors in 2019 prior to Topps finalizing card designs. Look for this card to gain significant value long-term if McKay can stay healthy and reach his full potential.
Another highly coveted rookie is Seattle Mariners outfielder Jarred Kelenic. As the 6th overall pick in 2018, Kelenic entered pro ball with a complete skill set and has done nothing but hit since turning pro. While he spent most of 2020 at the Mariners’ alternate training site, Kelenic is considered one of the top prospects in baseball and should be a fixture in the Seattle lineup for years to come. His Topps rookie card is still obtainable but prices are steadily increasing as Kelenic’s prospect stock rises. This is a card that could end up being a true gem in the long run.
For National League rookie of the year contenders, don’t overlook San Diego Padres infielder Jake Cronenworth. Originally drafted as a pitcher, Cronenworth transitioned to the infield and had a breakout season in 2020 after being called up from the Padres’ alternate site. He hit .285 with four homers and 17 RBI in just 196 at-bats, showing the ability to play second base, shortstop, and first base. Cronenworth’s versatility and impressive rookie campaign make him an intriguing young player, and his Topps rookie is still affordable for now.
Another NL West standout was Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Keibert Ruiz. Still just 22 years old, Ruiz made his MLB debut in 2020 and showed why he’s one of the top catching prospects in baseball with his strong defense behind the plate and ability to make consistent contact. Ruiz hit .273 in 34 games for LA and will continue developing at the big league level. His Topps rookie card remains obtainable but his long-term upside is sky high playing for a perennial contender.
In the AL West, Oakland Athletics pitcher Jesus Luzardo turned heads in 2020 with his electric stuff and poise on the mound. In just 39.1 innings, the left-hander posted a 3.86 ERA and 1.077 WHIP with 44 strikeouts. At just 22, Luzardo has ace-caliber potential and will be a workhorse for Oakland in the seasons ahead. His Topps rookie card is a strong long-term hold, as Luzardo has all the tools to develop into a perennial Cy Young contender.
Another young arm with tantalizing stuff is Miami Marlins right-hander Sixto Sanchez. The Dominican flamethrower made his debut in 2020 and showed why he’s such a special talent, with a 3.46 ERA and 29 strikeouts in 31 innings pitched. At just 22, Sanchez has the ceiling of a true ace and will be a cornerstone of the Marlins’ future plans. His Topps rookie card remains affordable for now but has immense long-term upside if Sanchez stays healthy and reaches his full potential.
In the AL East, don’t overlook Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Austin Martin. Drafted 5th overall in 2020 out of Vanderbilt, Martin jumped straight to the big leagues and held his own with a .239 average in 35 games. Still just 22, Martin has an advanced all-around skillset and should be a fixture in the Blue Jays lineup for years as a versatile player capable of hitting for average and power. His Topps rookie card is still obtainable but will likely increase in value steadily as Martin develops.
While the 2020 rookie class didn’t feature any true superstars like Juan Soto or Ronald Acuña Jr., it did have depth with many impact players who made their debuts. Looking long-term, some of the best 2020 Topps rookie cards to target based on potential include Brendan McKay, Jarred Kelenic, Jake Cronenworth, Keibert Ruiz, Jesus Luzardo, Sixto Sanchez and Austin Martin. All have the upside to develop into perennial All-Stars. For collectors, these rookies represent opportunity to acquire cards that could gain significant value over the next 5-10 years as these talented young players hit their primes.
While the COVID-19 pandemic overshadowed much of the 2020 MLB season, it did not diminish the excitement around some special rookie talents who made their debuts. The 2020 Topps baseball card set featured cards for many of these impact rookies, representing a chance for collectors to acquire rookie cards with immense long-term potential. Players like McKay, Kelenic, Cronenworth, Ruiz, Luzardo, Sanchez and Martin all have the ability to develop into true superstars. Their rookie cards remain affordable for now but could pay major dividends for patient collectors holding them long-term.
