The 2023 MLB rookie class has the potential to be one of the strongest in recent years. Several highly touted prospects made their MLB debuts in 2022 and will have their rookie cards released in 2023. While performance on the field ultimately determines the long term value of any rookie card, here are some of the top rookie cards to watch that could appreciate significantly given a breakout season by the player in 2023.
Bobby Witt Jr., Kansas City Royals – The number 2 overall pick from the 2019 draft had a solid debut season in 2022 with 20 home runs and 30 stolen bases. He showed why he was such a coveted prospect with his five-tool talent and potential impact on both sides of the ball. Witt’s cards skyrocketed after his call up last year and more gains could be made if he becomes the perennial all-star his ability indicates. The flagship Topps Chrome rookie and autographed cards will likely lead his 2023 class in value.
Spencer Torkelson, Detroit Tigers – After a disappointing debut in 2022 where he struggled at the plate, Torkelson will look to bounce back as he gets more experience in 2023. The number 1 overall pick from 2020 has huge power potential and a beautiful left-handed swing. If he can put it all together and start mashing home runs, his cards like Topps Chrome and Bowman Chrome autographed could surge. There is boom-or-bust potential with Torkelson that makes his rookie cards somewhat risky but with huge upside.
Julio Rodriguez, Seattle Mariners – J-Rod had one of the best rookie seasons in recent memory in 2022 with 28 home runs and 25 stolen bases. He established himself as a true five-tool talent and the face of the Mariners franchise. Rodriguez’ cards skyrocketed last year and should continue to appreciate given his all-star caliber potential. The Topps Chrome base rookie along with Topps Chrome autographed refractor remain his most coveted cards.
Adley Rutschman, Baltimore Orioles – After being drafted number 1 overall in 2019, Rutschman finally made his MLB debut in 2022 and did not disappoint. He showed why he was such a blue-chip prospect by hitting .254 with 7 home runs in just 46 games. His defense behind the plate was also praised. If Rutschman builds on his debut in 2023 and becomes the star catcher that teams hoped for, his rookie cards like Topps Chrome and Bowman Chrome autographs could be long term keepers.
Oneil Cruz, Pittsburgh Pirates – Cruz made a splash in his debut last season with his incredible raw power and speed for a man his size at 6’7″. He hit 4 home runs in just 30 games. Cruz still needs refinement but has a chance to be a true five-tool star if he puts it all together. His rookie cards like Topps Chrome and Bowman Chrome autographs are already in high demand given his unique physical tools and upside. More playing time in 2023 could see his cards take off.
Rookies who debuted late in 2022 like Cristian Pache (Athletics), Michael Harris II (Braves), and Gavin Sheets (White Sox) also have rookie cards to watch in 2023 as they look to build on their initial MLB success. Top prospects that could debut in 2023 like Gunnar Henderson (Orioles), Jackson Jobe (Tigers), and Druw Jones (Braves) will have their first Topps Chrome and Bowman Chrome rookie cards released that year which could gain value quickly if they impress at the MLB level.
The 2023 MLB rookie class has the potential for several breakout stars. While performance ultimately determines the long term value of any rookie card, players like Witt Jr., Rodriguez, Rutschman, and Cruz seem poised to continue developing into stars in 2023 and their flagship rookie cards released that year could appreciate significantly if they do. With such elite talent in the rookie class, 2023 shapes up to be an exciting year to collect the next generation of baseball stars at the card level. Patience and discerning which players truly have star potential will help investors capitalize on the upside of this promising rookie class over the long run.
