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2021 PRIZM DRAFT PICKS BASEBALL BEST CARDS

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The 2021 Prizm Draft Picks baseball set brought a lot of excitement to the hobby with its premiere rookie cards of top draft prospects. While Prizm Draft Picks sets in previous years featured lower profile prospects, 2021 saw cards of players drafted at the very top of their respective draft classes who are expected to have bright MLB futures. With such talented rookies, there is no shortage of highly sought after rookie cards from the 2021 Prizm Draft Picks baseball set. Here are some of the best and most valuable cards collectors should be on the lookout for:

Jack Leiter Auto /75 – As the #2 overall pick in the 2021 MLB Draft by the Texas Rangers, RHP Jack Leiter was one of the most touted amateur prospects in recent memory. Leiter put up video game numbers during his sophomore and junior seasons at Vanderbilt University while displaying four excellent pitches with command and control. His auto rookie from Prizm Draft Picks is the clear top card from the set, with the /75 parallel being extremely scarce and sought after due to Leiter’s star power and projection. Graded gem mint 10 examples of this card have already sold for over $2000, showing its star power and value potential as Leiter continues his pro career.

Jordan Lawlar Auto /99 – Taken #1 overall by the Arizona Diamondbacks, shortstop Jordan Lawlar dazzled scouts with elite bat speed, defensive skills, and baserunning ability coming out of high school in Texas. Along with Leiter, Lawlar was arguably the biggest name in the 2021 draft class. His autos from Prizm Draft Picks, especially the low-numbered parallels like /99, are must-owns for Lawlar collectors. With his five-tool skillset and high ceiling, Lawlar has the potential to be a perennial All-Star if he develops as hoped, making his rookie cards solid long-term investments.

Kumar Rocker Auto – While health concerns caused Kumar Rocker to fall all the way to the 38th overall pick in the draft by the New York Mets, the big righty was a potential top 3 pick out of Vanderbilt just a year ago. When healthy, Rocker pairs an upper-90s fastball with a hard slider and developing curve and changeup. His draft stock fall made his Prizm Draft Picks cards a discount, but Rocker still has frontline starter upside if he stays on the field. His autos in particular hold value as a potential steal for collectors due to Rocker’s past accomplishments and talent.

Marcelo Mayer Auto /99 – As the fourth overall pick by the Boston Red Sox, shortstop Marcelo Mayer drew rave reviews for his hitting ability, patience and athletic tools. Some viewed Mayer as the best pure hitter in the entire 2021 draft class. While Mayer may offer less upside than the first few picks, his bat is special enough to carry him to stardom if he develops as hoped. The /99 parallel of his Prizm Draft Picks auto is an affordable way for collectors to invest in what could be a perennial all-star at an premium position.

Brady House Auto /99 – Taken 27th overall by the Chicago Cubs, high school shortstop Brady House turned heads with slick defense, hitting skills and well-rounded tools. House has the potential for five average or better tools and draws some comparisons to Dodgers star Corey Seager. Though he may need more development time, House’s upside alone gives his Prizm Draft Picks autos strong long term appeal. The low-print /99 parallel especially stands out as a card that could pay big long term dividends for savvy collectors.

Matt McLain Auto – While he didn’t receive quite the same hype as others near the top of the draft, shortstop Matt McLain showed well-rounded offensive skills and defensive actions that made him an easy choice for the Arizona Diamondbacks with the 25th overall pick. McLain maintains hype as someone who could hit for average and power while providing versatility up the middle. His autos from Prizm Draft Picks are affordable yet hold future star potential as McLain develops further in the pros.

Harry Ford Auto /99 – Some viewed Georgia high school catcher Harry Ford as a potential top 10 pick, but his falling all the way to the LA Dodgers at 26 was somewhat surprising. However, Ford has the athleticism, arm strength, power bat and defensive chops behind the plate to be an impact player if developed properly. His tools alone give his low-print /99 Prizm Draft Picks auto sleeper appeal, especially with the Dodgers’ track record of developing talent.

Ben Brown Auto – As a 6’8” righty with an upper-90s fastball and promising offspeed stuff, Ben Brown flashed huge upside that made him an easy third round selection for the Tampa Bay Rays. Brown’s massive size alone draws comparisons to Aaron Nola and other towering hurlers. His Prizm Draft Picks cards are a solid gamble on a high-risk, high-reward arm with true ace potential if he can further refine his secondary pitches.

Teddy McGraw Auto – Somewhat lost in the shuffle of such a touted 2021 draft class overall was Teddy McGraw, an athletic high school outfielder picked 24th overall by the Boston Red Sox. However, McGraw offered intriguing raw power and athleticism that gives him a high offensive ceiling as he develops. His autos from Prizm carry strong longshot potential, especially if McGraw pans out close to his projected ability.

Will Bednar Auto – College pitchers don’t usually last until the 8th round like Bednar did to the Giants, but there were teams who saw him as a potential first round talent. The 6’3 righty worked as a closer at Mississippi State but flashed impressive swing-and-miss stuff that could profile him as a starter. His Prizm Draft Picks cards offer boom-or-bust appeal as a potential late round steal.

The 2021 Prizm Draft Picks baseball set delivered premier rookie cards for what was hailed as one of the most talented draft classes in recent memory. While multi-year careers are needed to truly gauge which prospects pan out, the class featured many aspiring stars at the tippy top. Savvy collectors would do well to hold top rookies like Leiter, Lawlar and Mayer for the long haul, as their on-field success could exponentially grow the values of their already sought-after rookie cards in the years to come.

BEST 2021 PANINI DRAFT PICKS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2021 Panini Draft Picks baseball card set featured prospects selected in the 2020 MLB Draft. While some of these players have yet to make their professional debuts, the set highlights many of the top talents that teams hoped could one day contribute at the major league level. With the unpredictability of player development, not every name will pan out as expected. Here are some of the best rookie cards from the 2021 Panini Draft Picks set that could prove to be valuable long-term holdings based on the prospects’ draft pedigree and skill set.

Spencer Torkelson – Detroit Tigers (1st Overall Pick): As the top selection in the 2020 draft, Torkelson was virtually a consensus choice as the best college hitter available. Playing for Arizona State, he slashed .337/.443/.729 with 27 home runs as a junior to cement his status as the top draft-eligible player. Torkelson has all the tools to be a perennial All-Star, with his ability to hit for both power and average his carrying tool. His card is the most coveted from the set as he is poised to be the future cornerstone of the Tigers’ lineup.

Austin Martin – Toronto Blue Jays (5th Overall Pick): Many had Martin rated as the best all-around player in the entire 2020 draft class. He put up incredible stats as a junior at Vanderbilt, hitting .377 with a .486 on-base percentage while providing plus defense up the middle. Martin’s 5-tool ability and high baseball IQ give him All-Star upside. He has the potential to be a franchise cornerstone for the Blue Jays once he reaches the majors.

Nick Gonzales – Pittsburgh Pirates (7th Overall Pick): Gonzales did nothing but produce during his three years at New Mexico State, culminating in a video game-like 2020 season where he slashed .448/.599/.908 with 15 home runs in just 23 games. He has one of the best pure bats in the 2020 draft and showed no weakness in his collegiate performance. Gonzales could be an impact middle of the order hitter if he continues developing as expected.

Robert Hassell III – San Diego Padres (8th Overall Pick): As one of the top high school bats in the 2020 class, Hassell showed an advanced approach at the plate with impressive raw power potential. He has the tools to develop into a true five-tool player at the top of the Padres’ order for years to come. Hassell’s combination of youth, upside, and landing spot with a perennial contender make him an intriguing long-term hold.

Emerson Hancock – Seattle Mariners (6th Overall Pick): The top college pitching prospect available in 2020, Hancock dominated as the Friday night starter at Georgia. He possesses three plus pitches with command of all his offerings. His combination of stuff and polish out of the draft give him a high floor. As one of the headliners of the pitching class, Hancock was a great selection for the Mariners who need impact arms. He could develop into a future #2 starter.

Garrett Mitchell – Milwaukee Brewers (20th Overall Pick): Mitchell turned heads with his five-tool skill set as an outfielder at UCLA. He has the speed, power, and defensive abilities to stay in center field long-term. While he may not have the name recognition of some other high picks, Mitchell is a very safe bet to develop into a regular at the major league level. His combination of tools and high-floor profile make him a solid long-term prospect pick.

Zac Veen – Colorado Rockies (9th Overall Pick): As one of the top prep bats on the board, Veen showed impressive raw power from the left side to go along with a promising hit tool. He has the athleticism and instincts to stick in center field long-term. Veen’s combination of power, speed, and upside made him a great selection for the Rockies, who need impact position players in their system. He has the potential to be a cornerstone if development goes according to plan.

Ed Howard – Chicago Cubs (16th Overall Pick): The Cubs landed one of the top high school shortstop talents in Howard with their first round selection. He has the defensive skills and athleticism to stick at a premium position. Offensively, Howard has the chance to be an impact hitter as well with his raw power and bat speed from the right side. His combination of tools and landing spot with a well-regarded development organization like the Cubs gives him a high ceiling.

Tyler Soderstrom – Oakland Athletics (26th Overall Pick): As one of the top catching prospects in the 2020 class, Soderstrom showed impressive offensive abilities from the left side in high school. He has the chance to be an impact hitter from a premium defensive position. Landing with a shrewd organization like the A’s bodes well for his long-term development. Soderstrom has the upside of a future All-Star caliber catcher.

Cade Cavalli – Cincinnati Reds (22nd Overall Pick): The Reds landed one of the top arms on the board in Cavalli, who dominated as the Friday starter at Oklahoma. He possesses a plus fastball and slider with the makings of at least three quality pitches. Cavalli has the ceiling of a future #2/#3 starter if he continues refining his command. His combination of stuff and landing with a team that develops arms well makes him a great long-term pitching prospect.

Bryson Stott – Philadelphia Phillies (14th Overall Pick): Stott was the top college hitter still available when the Phillies selected him in the middle of the first round. He did nothing but produce offensively and defensively at shortstop for UNLV. Stott has a polished bat from the left side with the chance to hit for both power and average. His high floor profile and landing with a contender gives him a good chance to develop into an everyday player.

While prospect development is unpredictable, the 2020 draft class featured many players with the upside to be franchise cornerstones. The top names selected like Torkelson, Martin, and Gonzales have the highest ceilings. But prospects throughout the first round like Mitchell, Veen, Howard and more provide opportunities for long-term value. For those betting on upside and landing spots, cards from the 2021 Panini Draft Picks baseball set could prove to be worthwhile investments down the road.

2021 PANINI PRIZM DRAFT PICKS BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2021 Panini Prizm Draft Picks baseball card set was highly anticipated by collectors upon its release in July 2021. Panini Prizm has become one of the premier modern sports card brands known for its flashy refractors and prospects of big rookie card hits. The 2021 Draft Picks set focused on prospects from that year’s amateur draft class and had collectors hoping to pull cards of future MLB stars.

Some key things to know about the 2021 Panini Prizm Draft Picks baseball card set:

The set featured 162 cards total with base cards for every player selected in the 2021 MLB June amateur draft rounds 1-10. This included first round picks like Henry Davis, Jordan Lawlar, and Kumar Rocker.

Parallels and short prints added to the excitement of chasing rare cards. Refractors, pink ice, blue ice, and 1/1 auto parallels gave collectors multiple card variations to find of their favorite players.

Autograph and memorabilia cards sprinkled throughout blaster and hobby boxes gave people a chance to pull rookie swatches and signatures of draft picks like Jack Leiter, Jack Suwinski, and Sal Frelick.

Design similarities to the flagship Panini Prizm NBA and NFL sets made the baseball cards feel like part of the larger “Prizm Family” of modern sports products. Bright colors and refractors had a clean, flashy look.

With no minor league seasons in 2020 due to COVID-19, the 2021 Draft Picks class arrived with extra mystery and intrigue. Scouts had less recent data on some players, creating uncertainty around long term pro potential.

Cards of players taken in the later rounds held intrigue as a “lottery ticket” in case a low pick exceeded expectations. Examples being 11th rounder Spencer Schwellenbach or 25th rounder Tanner Murray who have since developed into prospects.

While release date was months after the draft, the set allowed collectors to accrue cards of players before their pro careers began. This created an opportunity to obtain rookie cards of future stars at affordable prices.

In the months since the set debuted, some 2021 Draft Picks cards have already grown in value:

1st overall pick Henry Davis’ prizm rookie card has appreciably increased in secondary market value as he had a strong pro debut season.

Vanderbilt RHP Kumar Rocker, taken 3rd, saw early cards rise after an impressive showing in his first full pro season in 2022 despite not signing with the Mets after the 2021 draft.

Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop Termarr Johnson, a 2nd rounder, has garnered prospect hype and his prizm rookies have followed suit in price.

Texas Rangers 3B Cam Cauley, an 8th round selection, posted a breakout 2022 season and his draft picks cards jumped up collector want lists.

While it’s still very early, the 2021 Panini Prizm Draft Picks baseball set provided an opportunity to obtain rookie cards of players who may develop into future all-stars. As more members of this class establish themselves in professional baseball over the coming years, their prizm rookies from this set stand to gain in both collector and investment value. The combination of the respected Prizm brand with the intrigue of a new draft class created a product that remains one of the more interesting modern release to follow in the years ahead.

1991 CLASSIC DRAFT PICKS BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1991 Major League Baseball amateur draft produced a remarkable crop of future Hall of Famers and all-time great players. Baseball card enthusiasts and collectors who picked up packs of 1991 Topps, Donruss, and Fleer baseball cards as kids had no idea the talent they were holding in their hands. Now, over 30 years later, those classic 1991 baseball draft pick cards have taken on immense value as some of the most prized vintage player collections.

In the first round of the 1991 draft, the Atlanta Braves selected Atlanta-area high school shortstop Chipper Jones with the first overall pick. A star for the Braves for his entire 19-year career, Jones went on to win an NL MVP award, make 8 All-Star teams, and be elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility in 2018. Unsurprisingly, 1991 Topps Chipper Jones rookie cards have skyrocketed in value over the years. Near mint condition PSA 9 example cards recently sold for over $8,000 on the secondary market. Even well-worn PSA 5 rookie Jones cards in crappy shape still fetch over $100.

Another superstar from the 1991 draft class who exploded in value was Hall of Fame third baseman and 14-time All-Star Alex Rodriguez. As a 17-year-old shortstop out of high school in Miami, A-Rod was taken first overall by the Seattle Mariners. While his tenure in Seattle was relatively short, Rodriguez went on to have one of the greatest individual careers in MLB history playing for Texas and the Bronx Bombers. 1991 Topps Alex Rodriguez rookie cards in pristine PSA 10 condition are now considered Holy Grails for collectors, with unverified reports of some selling for $300,000 or more in private sales. Even well-centered PSA 8 Rodriguez rookies sell in the $10,000 range.

In addition to Jones and Rodriguez, here are some other notable draft picks and their 1991 rookie card values today:

Derek Jeter (6th overall by NYY): The longtime Yankees captain cemented his status as a singles-hitting machine and postseason legend. Pristine PSA 10 Jeter rookies are $10,000-15,000 cards, with most PSA 8s in the $2,000-4,000 range.

Nomar Garciaparra (5th overall by BOS): Though injuries derailed his career, Nomar looked like a future Hall of Famer during his peak Red Sox years. Nomar’s bowman chrome and topps rookie refractors can fetch $1,000+ in high grades.

Jason Giambi (9th overall by KC): Power-hitting first baseman won an MVP with Oakland and starred for the Yankees. Giambi rookie cards rarely top $100 even in PSA 10.

Javy López (22nd overall by ATL): All-Star catcher was a legendary slugger for the Braves and won two Silver Sluggers. His rookie cards are worth $50-150 on average.

Jason Varitek (14th overall by BOS): Durable backstop and captain led Sox to 2004/2007 titles. Varitek rookies are inexpensive at just $15-30 each.

Alfonso Soriano (36th overall by NYY): Speedy outfielder lashed 400 career HR. Soriano rookie cards can be found for under $10.

Paul Konerko (13th overall by CIN): Stud first baseman anchored White Sox lineups for years. Konerko rookie cards are less than $5 each.

The 1991 MLB draft was truly a special one that shaped the sport for decades. While not every pick panned out, stars like Chipper, A-Rod, Jeter, and Nomar burst onto the scene and defined baseball in the 1990s and 2000s. Their classic 1991 rookie cards remain some of the most prized baseball cardboard in existence. Though finding high-grade examples in pristine condition will cost a fortune, holding any mint copy from this epic draft class is a collectable feat on its own.

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2022 PRIZM DRAFT PICKS BASEBALL MOST VALUABLE CARDS

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The 2022 MLB draft class was highly anticipated with several elite prospects expected to be selected early. Bowman Draft hosted the official MLB draft this year from July 17-19. Panini also released their 2022 Prizm Draft Picks product focused on the drafted players. Within the Prizm Draft Picks release, several rookie cards immediately stood out as having the most long term value and breakout potential. Let’s take an in depth look at the top 2022 Prizm Draft Picks baseball cards to watch.

Druw Jones – Atlanta Braves (1st Overall Pick)
Jones had been projected as a possible first overall pick for over a year leading up to the draft. The athletic outfielder lived up to expectations by being selected first by the Braves. Not surprisingly, his Prizm Draft Picks rookie offerings immediately became the set’s most valuable cards. The Jones Prizm Silver Pack Fresh /15 is arguably the showcase card of the entire release. Only 15 of these exist and several have already sold for well over $1000. Other marquee Jones cards holding strong value include his Orange Prizm /499, Green Prizm /125, and Yellow Prizm /50. As the consensus top prospect and first pick, expect Jones’ cards to rise substantially if he develops into a star as projected. He has all the tools to become a perennial all-star and take the mantle as the face of the Braves franchise.

Brooks Lee – Twins (8th Overall Pick)
The smooth swinging Lee slipped slightly on draft day but still landed with a great organization in Minnesota. His on-field production at Cal Poly boosted him up draft boards after an incredible junior campaign. Lee’s draft stock fell just enough for his rookie cards to have more affordable prices than Jones. His Prizm cards still carry strong value. The Lee Green Prizm /125 and Yellow Prizm /50 are two of the pricier choices in the set. With further development, Lee profiles as a potential all-star caliber player. He should get the opportunity to move quickly through Minnesota’s system. Lee flashed above average power potential in college so there is breakout potential if he starts tapping into that power as a pro.

Termarr Johnson – Pirates (19th Overall Pick)
While Johnson has more inherent risk as a high school bat, he flashed star qualities leading up to the draft. The athletic five-tool centerfielder dominated at events like Under Armour All-America week. Johnson also crushed it during his senior season in Georgia. As a premium prep position player taken in the first round, his Prizm Draft Picks cards are in high demand. The Johnson Green Prizm /125 is one of the set’s pricier highlights. Though riskier than college hitters, high ceiling high school picks like Johnson can pay off tremendously if they develop as hoped. If he starts to fulfill scouting reports as a pro, expect his cards to appreciate considerably from their already strong prices.

Elijah Green – Royals (15th Overall Pick)
The large and athletic Green possessed possibly the highest upside of any hitter in the entire 2022 draft class. Questions over his bat speed and consistency dropped him to 15th, but the tools are immense. Green’s 1st round selection and offensive upside make his Prizm Draft Picks cards great long term holds. Even cards out of the base Prizm product carry value. But his Orange /499, Green /125, and Yellow /50 really pop. Green is a projection play who could be a superstar if everything comes together. His rare physical gifts combined with top 15 draft status gives Green cards enormous breakout potential if he starts tapping into that raw power.

Brock Porter – Rangers (3rd Overall Pick)
One of the biggest risers in the pre-draft process, Porter rocketed up boards with his performance and stuff across his senior season. While some questioned his durability long term, no one could deny the electric stuff. Porter became the third overall pick by Texas and immediately became one of the top prospects in their deeply talented system. All of his Prizm Draft Picks cards hold strong value, led by the always popular Green /125 and Orange /499 versions. Porter throwing in the mid-90s with a power curve gives him frontline starter upside. If he stays healthy and commands his stuff as a pro, his cards will shine tremendously as one of the premier arms from this class.

Jacob Berry – Cardinals (25th Overall Pick)
As a switch-hitting power bat from LSU, Berry brought credibility and production to the draft. Many saw him as a potential top 10 talent. Falling to 25th only increased the long term value in his rookie cards. Berry’s polished bat and above average power give him legitimate all-star offensive upside. His Prizm Draft Picks Orange /499 and Green /125 are two of the hottest cards in the set at the moment. Playing in hitter-friendly Busch Stadium and within the Cardinals’ strong player development system bodes well for Berry’s pro potential. If he rises up their system promptly, his cards could explode in value quickly when compared to his draft position.

Brooks Lee – Twins (81st Overall Pick in 2021)
While already in professional baseball, Lee’s 2021 draft class Prizm Draft Picks cards still hold great long term merit. As an above average hitter with 20-20 upside, Lee became the first ever player from Cal Poly to be drafted in the first round. He dominated in rookie ball and low A during 2022. With further success, Lee’s cards from when he was a highly touted true freshman could gain immense value retroactively. His 2021 Orange Prizm /499 and Green Prizm /125 showcased Lee as an elite prospect and remain two of the more prominent cards from that draft class set today.

This covers some of the most valuable long term hold rookie cards from the 2022 Prizm Draft Picks baseball release. With such a talented drafting class that featured future stars like Druw Jones, Brooks Lee, and Brock Porter, these cards have enormous breakout potential. Top picks from winning franchises carry extra appeal. While risk exists with any prospects, these prospects all profiled as premium talents with all-star upside. If even a few deliver on that talent level as pros, their rookie cards from 2022 Prizm Draft Picks could appreciate tremendously in future years. This hyped rookie class makes for many exciting prospects to watch both on the field and in the hobby.

BOWMAN DRAFT BASEBALL CARDS 2023

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The 2023 Bowman Draft baseball card set is highly anticipated by collectors as it features the newest crop of amateur baseball prospects selected in the 2022 MLB Draft. Bowman Draft has become one of the most popular modern baseball card releases each year given its exclusivity focusing solely on drafted players and prospects.

The 2022 MLB Draft took place from July 17-19 and saw 80 rounds of players selected by the 30 major league teams. As with every year, the 2023 Bowman Draft set will highlight card images and stats for many of the top picks from the draft along with other prospects selected in later rounds. Some of the most notable names expected to be featured in the set include shortstop Druw Jones (1st overall pick to the Arizona Diamondbacks), catcher Kevin Parada (11th overall to the New York Mets), and pitcher Dylan Lesko (15th overall to the Tampa Bay Rays).

Panini America has produced the Bowman Draft set each year since 2015 under an exclusive license with Major League Baseball. The sets are released in late winter/early spring, giving prospects time to play in their rookie ball seasons before their rookie cards are distributed. This timing allows for any statistical or performance updates to be included on the cards. The 2023 edition is expected to be released in March 2023, following the same release window as previous years.

Like all modern baseball card releases, Bowman Draft is produced in the form of trading card packs, boxes, and cases for collectors to randomly pull cards from. The base set usually features around 150-200 cards depending on the size of the draft class that year. Parallels, autographed cards, and special inserts then add to the overall checklist size. Base rookies are generally printed to orders of magnitude less than mainstream sports releases, making top prospects quite scarce and desirable.

Some key checklist highlights collectors can expect to find in the 2023 Bowman Draft set include:

Base cards for the entire 1st round class and many players from rounds 2-10.

Parallel and refractors of the biggest names in different print runs.

Autograph cards on card stock or sticker autos for top picks.

Patch card autos using game-used fabrics for the cream of the crop players.

Special inserts highlighting top prospect tools and rankings.

International signee cards for high-profile international free agents.

Organization cards featuring a team’s entire draft class photo.

Bonus cards for breakout performers from the previous year’s draft class.

While retail boxes can be found at major hobby shops and online retailers, the true chase cards require buying premium boxes, hobby boxes, or individual cards. Autographs and 1/1 parallel cards regularly command prices into the thousands due to the prospect pedigree and limited print runs. Savvy investors will often purchase unopened boxes or cases of Bowman Draft with the hopes of landing a big hit to grade and hold for maximum future appreciation.

Grading is another huge aspect of the modern Bowman Draft collecting landscape. Top rookies like Wander Franco and Bobby Witt Jr saw their Bowman Draft cards skyrocket in value after debuting in the majors and earning prestigious PSA/BGS gem mint grades. Services like PWCC and Goldin Auctions regularly sell graded Bowman Draft cards for five figures or more. This trend has made the set one of the most lucrative in the hobby for taking risks on teenage prospects before they make the show.

The 2023 Bowman Draft release is sure to be a highly anticipated event for baseball card collectors this coming spring. Featuring the first cardboard for many future MLB stars, the set provides a unique opportunity to acquire low-printed rookie cards of prospects before their careers unfold. For investors, hit pullers, and fans of the MLB draft, Bowman Draft has become a modern cornerstone that blends the allure of prospects with the scarcity of exclusive rookie cards.

2022 PRIZM DRAFT PICKS BASEBALL BEST CARDS

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The 2022 Prizm Draft Picks baseball product hit shelves in May and included prospects selected in the 2021 MLB Draft. With rookies like Jack Leiter, Kumar Rocker, and Henry Davis launching their professional careers, the 2022 Prizm Draft Picks class featured several emerging stars. Below we analyze some of the most coveted rookie cards from the release based on player performance and expectations.

Undoubtedly, one of the top cards from the set is Jack Leiter’s Prizm Draft Picks White Border Parallel. Leiter was selected second overall by the Texas Rangers in 2021 out of Vanderbilt University, where he established himself as one of the best collegiate pitchers in recent memory. Leiter dominated in his professional debut season between High-A and Double-A, posting a 1.79 ERA with 91 strikeouts over 56 innings. His combination of a mid-90s fastball, wicked slider, and improving changeup have scouts drooling over his future ace potential. Consequently, Leiter’s 2022 Prizm Draft Picks White Border rookie card already commands upwards of $150 in near-mint condition and is a stronghold for any baseball card investor.

Another enticing card is Kumar Rocker’s Prizm Draft Picks Orange Parallel. Originally drafted 10th overall by the New York Mets, Rocker fell to the Toronto Blue Jays in the 2022 MLB Draft due to health concerns over his right shoulder and arm strength. Despite this delay to his professional career, Rocker showed in 2021 with Vanderbilt why he was once considered a top-3 pick, posting a 2.73 ERA with 179 strikeouts in 122 innings. If Rocker can regain his previous form, his prospect stock will surge. Given his immense upside, his 2022 Prizm Draft Picks rookie cards retain value and appeal to collectors willing to take a chance on his recovery. Both his base and Orange Parallel can usually be found for under $50 currently.

Henry Davis’ Prizm Draft Picks Chrome Base is another notable rookie card following his selection first overall by the Pittsburgh Pirates. Davis possesses an advanced approach and strength for his age, slugging .294 with 11 home runs as Pittsburgh’s starting catcher in 2022 across High-A and Double-A. Scouts admire Davis’ plus power potential, above-average arm strength, and solid defensive skills behind the plate. With a clear path to the majors in the next couple years, Davis’ stock remains high in the prospect community. As a result, his 2022 Prizm Draft Picks Chrome rookie continues to circulate for $75-100 among collectors anticipating his big league arrival.

Among lower-round steals, Decatur High School righty Brock Porter has begun turning heads with his 2022 Prizm Draft Picks Base card. Once a late-round senior sign, Porter rocketed up draft boards following an incredible spring and committed to Clemson before the Colorado Rockies drafted him 24th overall. In his pro debut, Porter owned a 2.26 ERA with 51 strikeouts over 33 innings in Low-A before an injury sidelined him. Scouts rave about Porter’s four-pitch mix, athleticism, and 6’4″ frame. He has one of the highest ceilings of any pitcher in the 2021 class. Paying $20-30 now for his base rookie seems a smart long-term investment.

Another under-the-radar gem includes Sal Frelick’s Prizm Draft Picks Chrome Orange Parallel. The Boston Red Sox drafted the speedy and versatile Frelick 15th overall from Boston College after he slashed .370/.453/.533 with 40 stolen bases in 2021. Frelick served as Cape Cod League MVP that summer and continued mashing at High-A in 2022 to the tune of a .286 average with 16 steals. He showcased a complete offensive profile scouts love. While Frelick may top out as a high-floor utility player, the potential for 20-home run speed makes his 2022 Prizm Draft Picks Orange Parallel a relative bargain under $40.

The wealth of future stars featured in 2022 Prizm Draft Picks ensures several rookie cards will retain value in the coming years. While players like Leiter, Rocker and Davis lead the class, values remain reasonable on underrated prospects like Porter and Frelick. For baseball card investors, keying in on emerging talents from the 2021 draft holds strong long-term upside. The 2022 Prizm Draft Picks release provided an early opportunity to acquire the rookie cards of tomorrow’s MLB icons at accessible entry points.

2020 LEAF DRAFT BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 2020 Leaf Draft Baseball card set offers collectors and investors an opportunity to get in early on prospects from the most recent MLB First-Year Player Draft. While these rookie cards hold significant long-term potential, discerning which players will pan out and achieve star status is difficult in the short term. Let’s take an in-depth look at several notable cards from the 2020 Leaf Draft set and discuss estimates of their current values.

One of the biggest names and highest valued cards from the 2020 Leaf Draft set is Spencer Torkelson. Taken first overall by the Detroit Tigers, Torkelson was considered by many to be the top college bat available in the draft. His baseball card is among the most sought after by collectors, with PSA 10 Gem Mint examples recently selling in the $150-$200 range. As the likely future Tigers first baseman/DH, Torkelson is positioned very well long term to be a perennial All-Star and potential franchise player. If he develops as expected, his rookie cards could appreciate significantly in the years ahead.

Another 2020 first rounder whose Leaf Draft rookie card holds strong value is Asa Lacy, taken fourth overall by the Kansas City Royals. Considered a true ace atop many draft boards, Lacy falling to fourth was great luck for KC. With future ace potential, especially given the Royals need for arms, Lacy’s rookie card sells in the $75-$100 range for a PSA 10. His combination of terrific stuff and projection playing in an AL Central with modest home run parks bode extremely well for Lacy making an impact at the MLB level. Like Torkelson, his long-term potential makes this a solid investment card.

While the top couple picks’ cards remain relatively pricey, there are still plenty of investments to be had lower in the first round from the 2020 Leaf Draft set. Arkansas high school shortstop Nick Loftin, taken 17th by the Boston Red Sox, is a potential five-tool player who could carve out an everyday role in the big leagues. His rookie card isn’t as hyped but still sells in the $30-$40 PSA 10 range. Another later first round selection with breakout upside is North Carolina high school OF Robert Hassell III, taken 8th by the Padres. With power/speed potential and a friendly home ballpark, Hassell offers big league regular or better potential and his PSA 10 goes for around $25-35 already.

There are also plenty of value plays to be had in the later rounds of the 2020 Leaf Draft set at even more affordable prices. Tennessee righty Chad Dallas, selected in round 4 by the Dodgers, throws three potential plus pitches and could develop into a mid-rotation starter. His PSA 10 sells around $15. Indiana high school shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., nabbed 2nd overall in 2019 but falling to round 2 due to signability concerns, has untapped five-tool ability and the Royals drafting him provides an easy route to the majors. Even so, his PSA 10 can be had around $10-12—a bargain for his potential.

Heading into the lower rounds, affordable long-shot prospects start entering the discussion. Vanderbilt RHP Kumar Rocker, a potential top-5 pick who slid to round 10 due to signability and medical concerns, could flourish as a late bloomer and his PSA 10 sells around $7-9. Notre Dame outfielder Ryan Cole, chosen in round 11, has huge raw power potential and plus speed and might max out his tools with regular at-bats. His PSA 10 sells in the $5-7 range, offering lottery ticket risk/reward. Even deeper lies potential steals like Ohio high school outfielder J.C. Flowers, a toolsy athlete drafted in round 20 by the Giants. A true boom-or-bust prospect, Flowers’ PSA 10 can be had for $2-3.

While 2019 and 2020 MLB rookie cards from the Leaf Draft set hold much longer-term potential, there are numerous player choices from across the draft rounds offering reasonable odds of gaining value sooner than later. Following prospects’ development paths will be key for discerning the next stars from role players. By selecting the right talents across investment tiers, collectors can build a strategically balanced portfolio well-positioned to appreciate. With patience and luck, holdings from this set could pay strong long-term dividends for savvy speculators.

BEST CARDS IN 2021 PRIZM DRAFT PICKS BASEBALL

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The 2021 Topps Prizm Draft Picks baseball card set was highly anticipated by collectors due to the star power and potential of the players featured in the rookie class. While it’s still early in the careers of these prospects, some have already shown flashes of stardom that have collectors excited about their Prizm rookie cards. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the top cards to watch out for from the 2021 Prizm Draft Picks baseball set.

Perhaps the most coveted card in the entire set is the Prizm red refractor rookie card of Detroit Tigers prospect Jackson Jobe. Jobe was selected third overall in the 2021 MLB Draft out of Heritage Hall High School in Oklahoma. At just 18 years old, the 6-foot-2 right-handed pitcher already has an electric fastball that sits in the mid-90s and a devastating slider. Scouts rave about his pitchability and composure on the mound well beyond his years. In his professional debut for the Tigers’ affiliate in the Florida Complex League, Jobe struck out 12 batters over 6 innings while only allowing 2 hits and 1 walk. With his immense talent and sky-high ceiling, collectors believe Jobe has the potential to become a true ace in the majors, making his Prizm red refractor one of the riskier but highest upside rookies in the set. Fewer than 10 are believed to exist, and examples in gem mint condition have already sold for well over $1,000 on the secondary market.

Another highly coveted rookie is Jack Leiter, who was selected second overall by the Texas Rangers. The son of former big leaguer Al Leiter, Jack dominated at Vanderbilt University with a 0.81 ERA and 179 strikeouts over 111 innings as a sophomore in 2021, winning the Golden Spikes Award as the best amateur player in college baseball. With a mid-90s fastball and a wipeout slider, most scouts believe Leiter has the highest pitching ceiling of any player in the draft. While he has yet to make his pro debut, collectors are paying top dollar now for his Prizm rookies in anticipation of what they believe will be a long and successful major league career. Leiter’s red refractor is arguably the second most valuable card in the set behind only Jobe, though gem mint examples are still changing hands for $800-1,000 currently. As Leiter climbs the minor league ranks, expect values of his Prizm rookies to steadily increase.

Another highly sought-after rookie is Jordan Lawlar, selected first overall by the Arizona Diamondbacks out of Jesuit Prep in Texas. Lawlar has all the tools to be an impact shortstop at the major league level with plus speed, defense, and developing power in his right-handed bat. In his pro debut for Low-A Visalia, Lawlar slashed .286/.409/.429 over 34 games while stealing 12 bases. Scouts praise his advanced approach and baseball instincts, believing he has the makings of a true five-tool player. Lawlar’s Prizm rookies, including his red refractor, purple ice refractor, and black Prizm parallels are must-haves for D-Backs PC collectors and those who recognize his superstar upside. While not quite as valuable as Jobe or Leiter just yet, Lawlar prizm rookies still command $300-500 for top-graded gem mint examples.

Another highly regarded pitching prospect is Sam Bachman, selected ninth overall by the Los Angeles Angels. The 6-foot-3 righty from the University of Miami owns a plus fastball that sits in the upper-90s along with a nasty slider and developing changeup. In his pro debut, Bachman struck out 12 over 5 innings while only allowing 1 hit and 1 walk for Low-A Tri-City. Scouts rave about his electric stuff and athleticism on the mound. While still relatively unproven compared to Jobe or Leiter, collectors see Bachman as a high-upside arm with true ace potential down the road. His Prizm rookies, including the red refractor, remain some of the more affordable options from the 2021 draft class but hold lots of long-term upside if Bachman develops as hoped. Expect his cards to steadily increase in value as he climbs the minor league ladder.

Another potential superstar position player is Henry Davis, selected first overall by the Pittsburgh Pirates out of Louisville. As a catcher, Davis possesses rare left-handed power potential for the position along with solid defensive skills. In his pro debut, Davis slashed .267/.368/.467 over 33 games in Low-A while displaying his promising offensive abilities. Scouts praise his mature approach and leadership qualities behind the plate already at just 21 years old. As a hometown hero and future franchise cornerstone for the Pirates, Davis’ Prizm rookies are highly sought after by Pittsburgh collectors. While his red refractor remains one of the more reasonably priced options at around $300-400 graded gem mint, Davis’ on-field performance will dictate future value increases. If he develops as hoped, Davis prizm rookies could end up among the set’s most valuable in the years to come.

A few other top prospects whose Prizm rookies hold promise include Benny Montgomery (Reds, 5th overall pick), Brady House (Rangers, 23rd overall), and Kumar Rocker (Giants, 10th overall). Montgomery is an elite five-tool centerfielder who slashed .326/.423/.491 in his pro debut. House is an athletic shortstop with plus speed and defense who hit .333 in his first pro season. And Rocker is a power righty who was selected third overall in 2021 before health concerns caused him to fall to the Giants – if he stays healthy, Rocker’s upside is immense. While these prospects are less proven than the top names, collectors recognize their talent and long-term potential. Their Prizm rookies remain affordable options currently but hold lots of upside if any develop into impact major leaguers down the road.

While still very early in the careers of these young prospects, the 2021 Topps Prizm Draft Picks baseball set features several future stars who are already showing why they were top draft picks. Cards like Jackson Jobe, Jack Leiter, Jordan Lawlar, Henry Davis, and others continue to gain traction as their minor league performances create increased buzz. For savvy collectors, snatching up prizm rookies of these top talents while still affordable makes for prudent long-term investments. As more emerge and produce at higher levels, their cards will steadily appreciate in value. The 2021 Draft class looks to be one of the most talented in recent memory, making this year’s Prizm set one to watch for years to come.

2023 MLB DRAFT BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 MLB draft is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated in recent memory. With a loaded class of prospects headlined by potential No. 1 overall pick Druw Jones, baseball card collectors and investors are already looking ahead to the rookie cards of next year’s draft class.

While it’s still early, the 2023 draft class has been widely praised for its depth of elite talent at the top. In addition to Jones, high school shortstop Jackson Holliday and college pitchers Dylan Lesko and Brock Porter are all considered potential top-5 picks. With so many blue chip prospects likely to go very early, the rookie cards of the top drafted players in 2023 have strong potential to become highly sought after cards in the years to come.

Topps and Bowman are the two main manufacturers that release baseball cards centered around the MLB draft and rookie seasons of newly drafted players. In recent years, Topps has released draft picks parallels and Bowman has issued prospect cards of the early rounds within their flagship baseball sets released shortly after the draft in June. Both companies also produce larger sets later in the year focused entirely on the drafted rookies and top prospects.

For the class of 2023, collectors can expect Topps and Bowman to again feature the early draft picks within their regular baseball card releases in late summer 2023. Topps Update Series and Bowman Draft Picks & Prospects are two sets almost certain to highlight Jones, Holliday and others selected high in the first round. Parallel and autograph versions of their rookie cards in these initial releases will be hot commodities.

The bigger releases solely dedicated to the 2023 draft class and rookie prospects won’t arrive until fall 2023 at the earliest. Topps Draft, Bowman Draft, and Bowman Chrome Draft are the go-to sets for following the careers of the new draftees. These larger sets with increased print runs are where collectors can find all the drafted players and have the best odds at pulling serially numbered parallels and autographs of the top names.

While it’s still very early, here’s a quick look at some of the top prospects from the high school and college classes that could be big names in the 2023 MLB draft class:

Druw Jones, OF, Wesleyan High School (GA): Considered the likely No. 1 pick, the son of former MLB star Andruw Jones has five-tool talent and elite bloodlines that will make his rookie cards highly sought after.

Jackson Holliday, SS, Stillwater High School (OK): A switch-hitting shortstop with power and speed, Holliday could push Jones for the top spot and will be one of the top prospects regardless of where he’s drafted.

Dylan Lesko, RHP, Buford High School (GA): The highest profile prep arm in the class, Lesko sits mid-90s with his fastball and a plus curveball that could make him a top-5 selection.

Brock Porter, RHP, St. Mary’s Prep (MI): Another elite high school arm, Porter sits in the mid-90s and mixes in a power slider that could push him into the top half of the first round.

Daniel Susac, C, Arizona: A polished catcher with power and defensive skills, Susac could be the first college position player off the board after starring as a freshman for a top college program.

Cole Young, SS, North Allegheny High School (PA): Young has all the tools to stick at shortstop with above-average speed and power that should make him a top-10 pick.

Walker Jenkins, RHP, Jacksonville: The top college pitcher in the class, Jenkins sits mid-90s and mixes in a plus changeup that could push him into the top half of the first round.

While it’s still very early, these seven prospects in particular seem poised to be among the biggest names from the 2023 MLB draft class. Their rookie cards released by Topps and Bowman in sets focused on the draft in late 2023 and 2024 will be some of the most sought after new cards on the market in coming years. For collectors and investors, keeping an eye on this exciting draft class over the next year will be important as the careers and card values of the top selections take shape. The 2023 draft is shaping up to be a star-studded one, and the rookie cards of Druw Jones, Jackson Holliday, and others could end up being some of the most valuable modern baseball cards in the years to come.