The 2014 MLB rookie class debuted some exceptional young talent and many of these players have rookie cards that are highly coveted by collectors today. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top rookie cards from 2014:
Jacob deGrom, New York Mets: deGrom burst onto the scene in 2014 posting a 9-6 record and 2.69 ERA in 26 starts. He finished 2nd in NL Rookie of the Year voting and his talent was evident from the beginning. deGrom’s 2014 Topps rookie card is one of the most sought after from the year as he has developed into an ace for the Mets. The card still sells for over $100 in near mint condition showing his star potential was apparent from his debut season.
Gregory Polanco, Pittsburgh Pirates: Polanco took over as the Pirates everyday left fielder in 2014 at just 22 years old. He hit .273 with 11 home runs and 42 RBI in his rookie campaign. While not putting up huge power numbers, Polanco flashed five-tool talent. His 2014 Topps base rookie card is highly regarded by collectors and still trades hands for $50-75 depending on condition. Polanco has become a cornerstone of the Pirates organization making his rookie cards a worthwhile investment.
Jorge Soler, Chicago Cubs: Soler was one of the most hyped international prospects when he signed with the Cubs in 2012. He made his MLB debut in 2014 and showed prodigious power, slugging 5 homers in just 100 at-bats. An oblique injury cut his rookie year short but Soler continued to tantalize with his raw tools. His 2014 Topps base rookie card can be acquired for around $25 still making it a relative bargain for a former elite prospect who was a key part of the Cubs World Series run.
Joc Pederson, Los Angeles Dodgers: Pederson exploded onto the MLB scene in 2014 slugging 21 home runs in just 295 at-bats to finish 4th in NL Rookie of the Year voting. He immediately became a fan favorite in Los Angeles with his prolific power. Pederson’s 2014 Topps base rookie card can still command $50-75 in top condition given his excitement factor and continued improvement. He is a key part of the Dodgers exciting young core that has them primed to compete yearly in the tough NL West.
Archie Bradley, Arizona Diamondbacks: Bradley was one of the most accomplished pitching prospects in recent memory when he made his MLB debut in 2014. He showed flashes of dominance across 13 starts (3-5, 3.92 ERA) but command issues had him shuttling between the majors and minors. Still, Bradley possesses frontline stuff that could make him a true ace. His 2014 Topps base rookie card is only around $15-20 in price due to the pedestrian debut but remains an intriguing long-term buy low candidate if Bradley puts it all together.
George Springer, Houston Astros: After a brief September call up in 2013, Springer broke out as the Astros everyday center fielder and leadoff man in 2014. He slugged 17 home runs and stole 32 bases while hitting .239 as a rookie. Springer’s elite five-tool ability was on full display. His 2014 Topps base rookie card has exploded in value to $100-125 in top condition as Springer has cemented himself as a franchise cornerstone and 2017 World Series MVP for Houston. His early cards remain a outstanding investment.
It’s clear from analyzing these star rookies’ cards that 2014 featured an abundance of future stars making their MLB debuts. While prices have fluctuated over the years based on player performance and team success, most of these rookies remain foundations of their franchises. For savvy collectors, targeting the rookie cards of impact players from their debut campaigns can be a rewarding long-term hold. The 2014 rookie class continues to produce exciting careers making their early cards worth following.
