When it comes to investing in baseball cards, the year 2022 presents many exciting opportunities for collectors. While vintage cards from the 1950s and 1960s will always hold value, modern issues featuring current stars are gaining traction in the collectibles market. By researching the top rookie cards, prospect cards, and veteran standouts, savvy investors can target affordable cards that have strong potential to appreciate significantly in the coming years.
One of the most sought-after rookie cards for investment today is Los Angeles Angels pitcher/outfielder Shohei Ohtani from 2021 Topps. As the reigning American League MVP and one of the game’s true unicorns with his elite abilities both pitching and hitting, Ohtani is capturing worldwide attention for his unique two-way skills. His rookie card carries an average PSA 10 gem mint price tag of around $800 currently, leaving plenty of upside potential as his career progresses. Other Ohtani rookies to consider include his 2018 Bowman Chrome Autograph and 2018 Topps Chrome Autograph, which can be found in the $300-500 range.
Another rookie on the rise is Seattle Mariners center fielder Julio Rodriguez. Considered a future superstar, Rodriguez had a breakout 2021 season in the minors and is expected to make his MLB debut in 2022. His flagship 2021 Topps Chrome Refractor rookie carries a PSA 10 value around $150 currently, making it one of the more affordable investments in the latest top prospect class. Look also to his 2021 Bowman Chrome Autograph and 2021 Bowman Chrome Sapphire parallels for long-term upside.
Speaking of prospects, 2022 may be a banner year for Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco. After smashing records as one of the youngest players to reach the majors in decades, Franco is poised for a true superstar campaign. His prized rookie cards from 2021 Topps Chrome, Bowman Chrome, and Bowman’s Best all carry reasonable PSA 10 prices under $200 still. Franco has true generational talent and 50+ home run, 30+ stolen base potential – making any of his flagship rookies a steal at current valuations.
For established veterans, Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts remains one of the game’s premier stars and a sound investment. His 2018 Topps Chrome Red Refractor rookie PSA 10 recently crossed $4,000, up from just $1,500 a year ago. Other Betts rookies like his 2018 Bowman Chrome Autograph and 2018 Topps Chrome Autograph remain affordable compared to the potential upside. The 30-year-old is signed long-term with the Dodgers and should continue producing at an elite level.
Another veteran to target is Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. Still just 24, Acuña is a budding superstar and the face of the defending champion Braves. His 2018 Bowman Chrome Autograph and 2018 Topps Chrome Refractor rookie cards both carry PSA 10 values around $1,000 currently. Given Acuña’s five-tool skillset and youth, there’s reason to believe he can push those cards significantly higher in the years ahead. He’s a surefire bet to continue putting up MVP-caliber numbers.
For investors willing to spend a bit more, one of the best modern investments remains Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout. Still just 30, Trout is a generational talent and three-time AL MVP who could reasonably end his career as the greatest of all time. High-grade examples of his prized 2009 Bowman Chrome Draft Picks & Prospects Autograph rookie in a PSA/DNA 10 Gem Mint slab recently sold for $405,000. While out of reach for most, Trout’s rookie cards have shown incredible appreciation and remain a sound long-term investment even at today’s lofty prices.
In the vintage realm, one of the most affordable Hall of Famer autograph cards available is that of Cincinnati Reds/Brooklyn Dodgers legend Pee Wee Reese from 1952 Topps. High-grade examples signed on the iconic “Pee Wee Reese” signature line can often be found in the $3,000-$5,000 range. As one of baseball’s earliest star shortstops who played alongside Jackie Robinson, Reese’s autograph holds historical significance. With strong demand from vintage collectors, his autographed rookie remains a sensible blue chip investment.
For investors looking strictly at vintage commons, a top choice is the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card. High-grade PSA 8-10 examples currently sell in the $20,000-$50,000 range. As one of the most iconic cards in the hobby, Mantle’s rookie is a true cornerstone of any collection and an virtually guaranteed long-term appreciator given his legend status. Another affordable Mantle option is his much more available 1956 Topps, which can be acquired in PSA 8 for under $1,000 still.
By focusing on the top modern rookies and veterans along with select vintage gems, savvy collectors have a chance to build a baseball card investment portfolio with strong long-term upside. Patience will be key, as the true appreciation potential may not be realized for 5-10 years or more on current young stars. But for those willing to hold, 2022 presents a unique opportunity to acquire cards featuring some of the game’s biggest names at reasonable entry points before their inevitable rise. By targeting rookies of future Hall of Famers, today’s purchases could yield significant returns for years to come.
