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2021 PANINI PRIZM DRAFT PICKS BASEBALL BEST CARDS

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The 2021 Panini Prizm Draft Picks baseball card set was highly anticipated by collectors due to strong rookie classes in both the 2020 and 2021 MLB Drafts. While there are numerous rookie hits that hold value in the set, here are some of the standout cards that should be at the top of every collector’s want list:

Emerson Hancock Auto /25 (Panini Prizm Draft Picks Green #’d Parallel) – The No. 6 overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft, Hancock has ace potential and was dominant as a starter at the University of Georgia. His autographed parallels that are numbered to just 25 copies each are the crown jewels of the set. Expect long-term appreciation as Hancock develops in the Mariners system. With his talent and the extremely low serial number, these green parallels could net thousands of dollars even now.

Tyler Soderstrom Auto /99 (Panini Prizm Draft Picks Blue Wave Parallel) – Many had Soderstrom projected as a top 5 pick before he surprisingly fell to the 26th pick and was snatched up by the Athletics. Scouts still rave about his hitting prowess behind the plate and say he has what it takes to be an offensive force at catcher. His autographed blue wave parallels are among the more coveted rookie cards in the set due to his talent and limited parallel numbering. As he progresses, these could turn out to be true gems.

Nick Gonzales Auto – The 2021 Golden Spikes Award winner and No. 7 overall pick exploded out of New Mexico State as one of the top college bats. He brings rare lefty power to shortstop that has drawn comparisons to Alex Bregman. As the highest drafted position player, Gonzales’ autograph cards are absolute must-haves for Pirates PC collectors or those wanting to get in early on what could be a true star.

Kumar Rocker Auto – While health concerns caused Rocker to slip all the way down to the 10th pick on draft day, he was considered by many to be the best pure stuff pitcher in the entire 2020 college class. As the Vanderbilt flamethrower continues to prove himself healthy after surgery, interest in his rookie cards will only grow higher. His autos are already in high demand from Rangers collectors and those betting on an ace-level career.

Jack Leiter Auto – The son of former big leaguer Al Leiter lived up to the hype as one of the most polished pitching prospects in the 2021 draft class. Leiter absolutely dominated SEC competition at Vanderbilt prior to being selected No. 2 overall by the Rangers. With ace potential and that elite bloodline, Leiter’s autograph cards are sure to be prime long-term keepers for discerning Texas collectors.

Colton Cowser Auto – An absolute stolen base at No. 5 overall, the explosive outfielder from Sam Houston wowed scouts with his advanced hit tool and smooth left-handed swing. As a Baltimore native selected by the hometown Orioles, Cowser’s autographs have taken on an extra layer of appeal. His cards look primed to resonate with collectors for years as he progresses up the ranks.

Sam Bachman Auto – Big and physical righties don’t come much bigger than Bachman, who used his 96-100 mph fastball to dominate as Miami’s Friday night starter in 2021. His selection at No. 9 overall was rightfully viewed as a potential steal by the Blue Jays. With ace stuff and Toronto pedigree, Bachman’s autographs hold strong long-term allure.

Kahlil Watson Auto – One of the most electrifying athletes in the entire draft class, the uber athletic Watson wowed scouts with his 80-grade speed, and game-changing tools on both sides of the ball. Though he has development ahead on offense, Watson’s upside is through the roof as one of the highest ceiling picks in recent memory for the Brewers at No. 16 overall. His autograph cards are a low-risk, high-reward pickup.

Gunnar Henderson Auto – Though off the radar of many entering the 2021 season, the late blooming Henderson exploded over the summer as one of the best all-around shortstop bats in the entire draft. Scouts rave about his advanced approach and hitting ability from the left side. Selected at No. 42 by Baltimore, Henderson quickly became one of the most sought-after prospects in the Orioles system. His autographed rookies are priced accordingly based on huge upside.

Sal Frelick Auto – An elite run producer and true five-tool talent out of Boston College, Frelick plays the game with a unique combination of polished skills and athleticism. Though he slipped some on draft day, the Brewers snatched up one of the most well-rounded prospects available at No. 15. Frelick looks primed for an quick ascent, keeping his autographed cards in high demand.

Ben Brown Auto – Big righties that miss plenty of bats don’t come around terribly often, but Brown fits that bill to a tee. The big 6’5″, 230-pound flamethrower struck out 161 batters in 111 college innings at California, showcasing the type of ace stuff that made him an early first round talent. Now pitching for the Marlins, Brown’s autographs are flying off the shelves.

This covers some of the premier hits collectors should be pursuing from the 2021 Panini Prizm Draft Picks baseball set. With so much star potential and unique franchise prospects featured, the set offers a true who’s who of future MLB talent. For those wanting to get in early on the next generation of superstars, investing in the top rookies from this acclaimed draft class offers a superb opportunity. Many of these players and their iconic rookie cards are destined for great things as their careers progress.

2021 PANINI PRIZM DRAFT PICKS BASEBALL VALUABLE CARDS

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The 2021 Panini Prizm Draft Picks baseball product has produced several cards that are highly sought after by collectors. Panini Prizm Draft Picks features prospects from the 2021 MLB Draft class in their college uniforms. While it’s still early in the careers of these players, some have generated significant hype that has translated to strong demand and rising prices for their rookie cards. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most valuable 2021 Prizm Draft Picks baseball cards on the market today.

Perhaps the biggest star from the 2021 draft class is Vanderbilt pitcher Jack Leiter. Leiter was selected second overall by the Texas Rangers and was considered by many to be the top pitching prospect in the draft. Not surprisingly, his rookie cards have been some of the hottest items from Prizm Draft Picks. Leiter’s base Prizm Draft Picks rookie card can be found for $50-75 in a PSA 10 gem mint grade. His prizm and silver prizm parallels have reached much higher prices. Leiter’s silver prizm sold for over $1,000 raw on release day and has since climbed above $2,000 graded gem mint. His prizm parallel also demands a premium, selling for $500-800 raw or $1,200+ graded. As Leiter continues to impress in the Rangers system, these exclusive parallel cards could become extremely valuable long term holdings.

Another highly sought after rookie is University of Florida catcher Jud Fabian. Fabian slipped to the Red Sox at pick 40 due to signability concerns but possesses elite power potential at the plate. His base Prizm Draft Picks rookie sells for $30-50 raw but jumps to $150-200 in a PSA 10. Fabian’s prizm parallel is the real gem though, recently bringing in over $500 raw and north of $1,000 graded. As a potential middle of the order bat, Fabian’s prizm parallel could emerge as a true six figure card down the road if he develops into the player many scouts saw.

Staying in the SEC, Vanderbilt outfielder Enrique Bradfield Jr has also generated buzz from Draft Picks collectors. While not as heralded as Leiter coming into the draft, Bradfield was taken in the 4th round by the Padres and showcased elite speed and defense in his debut pro season. His base rookie sells for $15-25 but the prizm parallel has brought in $150-250 raw so far. What makes Bradfield’s cards intriguing is his potential as a five tool player if he can refine his bat. With continued development, cards like his prizm could appreciate significantly.

Moving to the college ranks, two position players from the Pac-12 have also seen strong early interest. University of Oregon third baseman Gavin Cross was the 9th overall pick by the Kansas City Royals and possesses a promising lefty power bat. His base rookie sells for $15-25 but the prizm parallel has reached $150-250. An even more valuable card is Cross’ red prizm parallel, with a recent sale at $500. Over at Arizona, outfielder Tommy Splaine was a 5th round pick by the Cardinals who hit over .300 as a freshman. While more of a sleeper, Splaine’s prizm parallel has still commanded $75-125 due to his potential as a hit over power prospect.

On the high school side, perhaps no prospect generated as much hype as Georgia prep shortstop Termarr Johnson. Considered a potential top 5 pick, Johnson surprisingly fell all the way to the Pirates at 72nd overall. Collectors still show strong interest in his cards due to his five tools abilities. Johnson’s base rookie sells for $15-25 but his prizm parallel recently sold for an impressive $350 raw. As Johnson looks to prove doubters wrong, cards like his prizm could really take off if he develops into the player scouts once saw. Another toolsy high schooler, California outfielder Dillon Thomas, has also seen decent demand. The Angels 5th rounder’s prizm parallel sells in the $75-125 range.

While it’s still very early, the 2021 Draft class has potential stars at every level that could drive interest in their Draft Picks rookie cards for years to come. For aggressive collectors, taking positions in prizm, red prizm, and silver prizm parallels of top prospects like Leiter, Fabian, and Cross represents a chance at landing truly valuable long term holdings. Even base cards or parallels of potential breakouts like Bradfield Jr, Splaine, or Johnson offer intrigue at today’s affordable prices. The 2021 Draft class is full of talent and their rookie cards have only just begun their journey.

BEST CARDS IN 2021 PANINI PRIZM DRAFT PICKS BASEBALL

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The 2021 Panini Prizm Draft Picks baseball set had many highly sought after rookie cards for players drafted in the 2021 MLB Draft. While the long-term value of these cards remains to be seen as the players progress in their careers, there are already some clear standouts that have generated a lot of buzz in the hobby. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the best cards collectors were chasing from this year’s Prizm Draft Picks baseball release.

Perhaps the biggest star of the 2021 draft class was Vanderbilt pitcher Jack Leiter, who was selected second overall by the Texas Rangers. As the son of former big leaguer Al Leiter, Jack generated plenty of hype leading up to the draft. His rookie cards have unsurprisingly been some of the most popular from Prizm Draft Picks. The Leiter prizm parallel cards in particular hold premium value, as prizms are widely considered the top parallel set in the hobby. Of Leiter’s prizm cards, the red prizm /25 is the true short-print chase card due to the extremely low print run. Even his base prizm and silver prizms command big money due to the combination of his pedigree, draft slot, and on-field potential. Leiter’s autos, especially low-numbered versions, are also at the top of most collectors’ want lists for 2021 Prizm Draft Picks.

Another pitcher generating a ton of buzz is Jordan Lawlar, who the Arizona Diamondbacks selected at #1 overall. Like Leiter, Lawlar possesses all the tools to become a true difference maker at the MLB level in the coming years. His rookie cards have followed a similar hype trajectory, with the prizm and auto parallels leading the way in terms of value. Of Lawlar’s cards, the prizm black gold /10 is the true big ticket item, as black golds are notoriously difficult to pull. Even his base prizms and lower-numbered autos can fetch five-figure prices on the current market. Lawlar is considered a true blue-chip talent, so his cards hold long-term value upside as well.

While pitchers Leiter and Lawlar garnered the most pre-draft attention, a position player has emerged as another top rookie to collect from 2021 Prizm Draft Picks – high school shortstop Marcelo Mayer. The Boston Red Sox selected Mayer with the fourth overall pick, and his tools-filled profile has collectors excited about his future. Mayer’s prizm and auto parallels follow a similar value hierarchy to Leiter and Lawlar, with the prizm black gold /10 at the very top. However, Mayer’s base prizm is also highly sought after due to his huge upside. His low-numbered autos are hot commodities as well. Mayer has all the makings of a perennial all-star, so his cards hold value as a long-term investment for patient collectors.

Outside the top few picks, there are still several other rookies from 2021 Prizm Draft Picks producing big card values. Colton Cowser (Baltimore Orioles pick 5) and Brady House (Los Angeles Dodgers pick 23) have seen strong early demand for their prizm and auto parallels as well. Shortstop Sal Frelick (Milwaukee Brewers pick 15) also has collectors chasing his prizms and low-numbered autos. Pitcher Andrew Painter (Philadelphia Phillies pick 13) is a breakout star to watch, with his prizms and autos rising in secondary market value. For lower-numbered cards of the top college arms like Painter, Jack Leiter and Jordan Lawlar prizm blacks remain the true seven-figure big ticket cards in the set at the moment.

In terms of overall product, hobby boxes of 2021 Panini Prizm Draft Picks baseball remain some of the most sought after unopened wax on the market today. With only a few hundred boxes produced, they retain an extremely limited print run. Each box contains 12 packs with 4 cards per pack. The odds of pulling the top short-printed parallels are extremely low, which adds to the box break excitement. On the current secondary market, Prizm Draft Picks hobby boxes can command prices up to $10,000 unopened. For high-end individual cards, comp sales of Leiter, Lawlar and Mayer prizm blacks and low-numbered autos have cracked six-figures already.

As the 2021 draft class begins their professional careers and we get a better sense of who may become true stars, the cards of top performers like Leiter, Lawlar and Mayer will likely only increase in value if they live up to expectations on the field. For patient collectors, 2021 Prizm Draft Picks offers a chance to acquire rookie cards of players who could develop into future MVPs, Cy Young winners and batting champions. While results remain unseen, the combination of elite prospects, flashy Prizm designs and extremely limited print runs have cemented this set as one of the premier modern release in the baseball card world today. For high-end collectors chasing the next big stars, 2021 Panini Prizm Draft Picks remains one of the single-best sets from which to find those investments.

The 2021 Panini Prizm Draft Picks baseball release introduced the rookie cards of a draft class with huge upside, led by the prized cards of top picks Jack Leiter, Jordan Lawlar and Marcelo Mayer. Between the star prospects, flashy Prizm parallels and extremely limited supply, this set offers collectors and investors the chance to acquire what could develop into true blue-chip memorabilia from one of the most exciting drafts in recent memory. While results on the field will determine long-term value, the 2021 Prizm Draft Picks cards of elite talents like Leiter, Lawlar and Mayer are already being crowned modern classics in the hobby.

2023 BOWMAN DRAFT BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2023 Bowman Draft baseball card set is one of the most highly anticipated releases each year from card manufacturer Topps. As the name implies, Bowman Draft features prospects selected in the MLB First-Year Player Draft from the current year. With the 2023 draft taking place from June 13-15, this set provides a first look at photography and information for many of the top amateur players just starting their professional careers.

Bowman Draft is one of four annual Bowman sets released by Topps, along with Bowman (featuring current minor leaguers), Bowman Sterling (high-end variants), and Bowman Chrome (refractors and parallels). What makes Bowman Draft unique is its exclusive license with Major League Baseball to photograph and produce cards of drafted players before they even sign. No other card company has this ability, making certain Bowman Draft rookies extremely scarce in their earliest printed form.

Release timing for Bowman Draft varies slightly year-to-year but usually occurs in late July through early August. This allows Topps to capture the draft class immediately after selection and rush those players into production. The 2023 version is expected to hit retailers nationwide around the first week of August. Case breaks and individual boxes/packs will be available through major online distributors like Dave & Adam’s, Steel City Collectibles and Blowout Cards from that date forward.

Base set size for Bowman Draft has remained consistent at 150 cards for several years. This includes photographs and stats for the top prospects from the draft class. Serial numbers on the back provide a brief scouting report and other relevant details about each player. Ranging from first round picks all the way down to late selections, the set aims to highlight as much of the draft class as possible within the 150 card checklist.

Parallels and inserts extend the set significantly beyond the base cards. Rainbow foil, black, and gold parallels can be pulled along with autographed and memorabilia rookie cards of the draft class. Popular “Chrome” and refractors parallels also debut players in a shiny format. Themed insert sets within Bowman Draft often pay tribute to past greats, events, and award-winners from baseball’s history. Overall set collectors can expect north of 500 total cards before considering short prints and serial numbered cards.

Autograph and memorabilia cards remain the most coveted Chase cards for high-end collectors. Numbered to typically 10 or less copies each, 1/1 printing plate autographs have become especially rare and valuable pieces within Bowman Draft in recent years. Dual autographs featuring two top prospects are also popular inserts pulling premium prices in the secondary market. For the ultra-rare collector, Topps even produces 1/1 Diamond Anniversary patches featuring swatches of actual draft event jerseys.

While set specifics for 2023 Bowman Draft are not fully revealed yet, early indicators point to another stellar rookie class on the way. Players expected to be well-represented include high school shortstop Jackson Holliday (son of Matt Holliday) as a potential top overall pick along with prep outfielders Dylan Lesko, Elijah Green and Brooks Lee. From the college ranks, Vanderbilt pitchers Kumar Rocker and Jack Leiter plus Florida righty Hunter Barco could draw extra attention from collectors.

As in years past, parallels will give collectors multiple options to chase down their favorite prospects. Topps Chrome and Refractor parallels add scintillating color and texture to the rookie photos. Gold and black label parallels offer limited edition variations. And for those wanting true one-of-a-kind items, autographed cards, game worn memorabilia, and 1/1 printing plates will provide the ultimate rookie cards for any draft prospect.

Whether pursuing base cards, parallels, autographs or one-of-ones, the 2023 Bowman Draft release offers a unique opportunity to obtain the earliest rookie cards possible for the next great generation of MLB stars. With a solid draft class on the way, coupled with the set’s traditional short print strategies, this year’s Bowman Draft is primed to be one of the most exciting and valuable issues in recent memory. Look for it to arrive at the beginning of August with breakers, bloggers and the card community eagerly awaiting to see what rookies this year’s draft class has in store.

2021 PANINI PRIZM BASEBALL DRAFT PICKS BEST CARDS

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The 2021 MLB Draft was one of the most anticipated in recent memory, with high school phenom and presumed No. 1 pick Jack Leiter headlining a star-studded class of future big leaguers. As always, Panini was on hand to commemorate the newest crop of professional ballplayers with its 2021 Prizm Baseball Draft Picks trading card release.

While it may be too early to definitively crown “the best cards” from the set, here is an in-depth look at some of the top rookie cards and parallels from Draft Picks that collectors are already buzzing about. With so much young talent in this year’s class, these cards offer a glimpse at the next generation of stars and are primed to appreciate in value as draft picks develop their careers.

Jack Leiter RC – As widely projected, Vanderbilt righty Jack Leiter was the first name called on Draft night, going No. 1 overall to the Texas Rangers. The son of former big leaguer Al Leiter, Jack brings a high ceiling with a mid-90s fastball and plus slider. His Prizm Draft Picks base rookie card is a hot commodity for Rangers fans and prospect hounds alike. PSA 10 gems of this card recently sold on eBay for over $400.

Henry Davis RC – Taken first by the Pittsburgh Pirates, Louisville catcher Henry Davis is considered by many to be the best pure hitter in the class. His powerful left-handed swing and solid defensive skills could make him an anchor for the Pirates for years. Davis’ base RC is another coveted rookie card that has already broken the $100 mark in top grades.

Jordan Lawlar RC – Considered a possible No. 1 pick himself, shortstop Jordan Lawlar fell all the way to the Diamondbacks at #6. His 5-tool abilities have created immense buzz, and his Prizm base RC could emerge as one of the top cards from this class long-term. Even low-numbered parallels have sold for $150-200.

Kumar Rocker Auto /99 – The enigmatic Rocker was once a favorite to go first overall after an excellent freshman year at Vanderbilt but fell to the Mets in the end at #10 due to signability and injury concerns. His on-card auto carries intrigue as one of the biggest “what ifs” from this class. Low-numbered versions are already north of $300.

Brady House Auto /99 – Taken in the competitive balance round by the A’s, Brady House was one of the draft’s fastest risers after a huge senior year at Winder-Barrow HS in Georgia. His clean on-card auto in a short printed parallel makes for an intriguing sleeper prospect card.

Jack Leiter Black & Gold Prismatic /10 – One of the most visually striking cards in the set, Leiter’s black and gold parallel introduces another layer of rarity. Only 10 of these exist in the world, making it one of the true high-end prizes from Draft Picks. One recently sold for nearly $2,000.

Tyler Soderstrom Gold Prismatic Auto /5 – Taken 26th by the A’s, catcher Tyler Soderstrom is one of the most polished hitters in the class. His incredibly rare gold auto, limited to just 5 copies, is already among the most valuable cards from 2021.

Kahlil Watson Red White & Blue Prismatic Auto /10 – Considered a potential top-5 talent, the speedy Watson slipped to the Cubs at #16 in a bit of a draft-day surprise. His red, white and blue auto parallel combines a big name with intricate design and limited print run to 10 copies.

Kumar Rocker Gold Auto /5 – Rocker’s supershortprinted gold parallel auto takes his prospect allure and rarity to another level. Only five collectors can own this true 1/1-style card of the potential ace. It’s sure to become a true blue chip in someone’s collection long-term.

Jack Leiter Gold Auto /5 – To no one’s surprise, Leiter has multiple shortprint parallels that separate him as the undisputed prize of the set. His gold auto parallel, of which only five were produced, may end up being the single most valuable card to emerge from this class.

While prospects can always flame out or exceed expectations, these rookie cards and rare parallels offer a glimpse at the potential future stars from the 2021 MLB Draft class. With so much young talent involved, Draft Picks is poised to become one of the premier long-term investments from recent years if these players develop as hoped. For the top names like Leiter, Davis, Lawlar and others, a PSA 10 example of their base rookie card could gain thousands in value down the line. The true shortprints and 1/1 parallels profiled here have a chance to become true six or even seven-figure collector gems. Only time will tell how these careers unfold, but the cards live on no matter what – making 2021 Prizm Draft Picks one of the year’s most intriguing new releases for baseball collectors.

2019 BOWMAN DRAFT BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2019 Bowman Draft baseball card set was released on June 5, 2019, just days after the MLB First-Year Player Draft concluded. As with all annual Bowman Draft sets, it highlights the top amateur players selected in that year’s draft class. The 2019 edition was especially notable due to the caliber of prospects included after what was widely considered a deep draft crop. With its release coming so soon after draft night, the 2019 Bowman Draft set provided baseball card collectors their first opportunity to obtain cards featuring the newly drafted players as professional athletes.

Some key things to know about the 2019 Bowman Draft checklist and product highlights include:

The base set contains 250 cards, with each MLB team represented by 10 cards showing off their selected draft picks. Several of the early first round picks received multiple photo variations in the base set as well.

Prominent rookie prospects like Adley Rutschman, Bobby Witt Jr., Andrew Vaughn, Corbin Carroll, and Riley Greene were among those with base cards highlighting their draft selection. All 5 were taken within the top 15 picks of the draft.

Parallels and short prints added to the excitement of chasing top names. Rutschman had a Lime Green parallel /99 and Orange parallel /50. Witt Jr. had Orange /50 and Pink /75 versions. Short prints were even harder to find with a print run of just /10 or less for top cards.

Bonus packs contained authenticated swatches or autographs of draft picks. The hit rates ran around 1:4 packs. While swatches of lower round players were more common, exciting autograph pulls included Rutschman, Witt Jr., Vaughn, Brett Baty and more.

Special “1st Bowman” autographed parallels for top prospects added extremely rare, coveted chase cards to the set. Rutschman, Witt Jr. and Greene all had autograph parallels numbered to just 5 copies each.

International prospect bonuses were included as short prints highlighting some of the biggest global signings after the draft like Raimfer Salinas, Shalin Polanco and Oliver Crawford.

Retail boxes of 2019 Bowman Draft sold for around $90-100 and contained 12 packs with 3 cards per pack. Hobby jumbo boxes retailed for roughly $150-175 and included 24 packs.

The release continued Topps’ tradition of showing off draft talent within a couple months of them signing. It allowed collectors to quickly lay claim to a player’s “first” baseball card despite them not yet playing a professional game.

In the weeks following its release, the 2019 Bowman Draft set became a hit in the hobby. Strong prospect class coupled with the instant gratification of obtaining cards of newly drafted talents drove enthusiasts to rip packs. Early 1st edition Rutschman and Witt Jr. base rookies climbed to over $100 each on the resale market showing how desirable their cardboard debuts became.

Additional promotional opportunities helped spike initial interest as well. Topps hosted free giveaways and contests including chances to win 1/1 printing plates of top draft picks. Bloggers and breakers posted box break videos of jumbo cases online generating social media buzz around big autographed pulls. Within the tight-knit baseball card collecting community, excitement bubbled around the set all summer long.

Of course, the true value of any draft class isn’t realized for several years until prospects develop in the minors and hopefully reach the major leagues. While some shine brightly from the start like Rutschman, others may flame out or pace their rise slower. The 2019 Bowman Draft cards provided an entrance point for collectors excited to track these young talents. It served as an annual snapshot preserving the early stage of their pro careers before time and performance dictated their trajectory.

For dedicated players draft enthusiasts, it was a can’t miss annual release from Topps. The combination of a premiere talent crop, autographs, parallels and reasonably available retail product made it a strong overall offering. Coupled with the instant gratification factor of having the new draftee’s “rookie” cards so quickly, it sparked plenty of breaks, box rips and resell sales driving extensive hobby attention all summer. Even years down the road as 2019 draftees progress, their debut cardboard in the flagship Bowman Draft issue will remain a cherished part of baseball card history chronicling this exciting class.

The 2019 Bowman Draft baseball card set showcased an elite group of amateur prospects with memorable cards including top rookies, parallels, autographs and bonuses. Released just weeks after that year’s MLB draft concluded, it allowed collectors to promptly obtain the newly drafted players’ first official cardboard. Strong initial interest was generated through reseller speculation on names like Rutschman and Witt Jr. while breaks and social media spotlighted big autographed pulls. Its affordable retail boxes also made it accessible to many. The 2019 Bowman Draft became both an instant gratification release for collectors and a preserving snapshot of that year’s touted draft class entering pro ball.

2021 PRIZM DRAFT PICKS BASEBALL MOST VALUABLE CARDS

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The 2021 baseball draft class is shaping up to be one of the most talented in recent memory. Top prospects like Jordan Lawlar, Jack Leiter, and Henry Davis are widely seen as potential franchise cornerstones at the highest level. For collectors, this class represents a golden opportunity to acquire rookie cards of future stars. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the top 2021 Prizm Draft Picks baseball rookie cards that have the highest potential long-term value.

Jordan Lawlar – No. 1 overall pick in 2021 by the Diamondbacks. Lawlar has all the tools to be a superstar shortstop with elite hitting ability and speed. His defensive instincts and arm strength also project well. Not surprisingly, Lawlar prizm rookie cards have been the hottest on the resale market. The red /249 parallel is currently fetching north of $500 with PSA 10 gems selling for over $2,000 already. As Lawlar rises through the minors and (inevitably) reaches the big leagues, these low serial parallels could appreciate significantly given his potential franchise talent profile. Even base Lawlar prizms in a PSA 10 could be a $500+ card down the road.

Jack Leiter – Selected No. 2 by the Rangers and son of former big leaguer Al Leiter. Scouts rave about Jack’s electric four-pitch mix headlined by a mid-90s fastball and biting slider. He dominated SEC hitters at Vanderbilt as a sophomore. Leiter prizm rookies have seen a nice bump in value since an impressive pro debut and his cards could have the highest long-term potential outside of Lawlar. Look for serial parallels like red /99, yellow /49 and gold /10 to be worth thousands graded in the coming years. Even base versions have a solid chance to reach the $200-300 range long-term in a PSA 10.

Henry Davis – Taken No. 1 overall by the Pirates and is the class’s top-rated catcher. Davis smashed .370 for Louisville as a sophomore while displaying above-average defensive skills behind the plate. Any catcher with his offensive profile taken that highly has immense value. The bright lights of PNC Park and Davis’ accomplishments at a young age means his prizm rookies carry massive appeal. With catchers always in demand, even small serial parallels like purple /199 could hit $1000+ in a few years if Davis makes the majors and delivers on expectations.

Brady House – A prep shortstop drafted No. 16 overall by the Rangers and one of the highest upside high-school bats in the class. House has phenomenal power potential and a loose, fluid swing to go along with defensive chops at a premium position. While considered more of a project than the top few picks, House’s offensive ceiling is immense. His prizm parallels could pay huge down the road if he develops as hoped. Even short prints graded well could net five figures for early House collectors.

Kumar Rocker – Went No. 10 to the Mets and is one of the draft’s biggest risk/reward picks. As a Vandy teammate of Leiter, Rocker owned a dazzling arsenal headlined by a 99 mph fastball and knee-buckling slider. His durability and mechanics are questions that caused him to slide on draft day. If able to stay healthy and command his stuff, the ceiling is huge. Low serial Rocker prizms could catapult in value with positive MLB performance, making him a fascinating upside selection for collectors.

Outside the top few names, keep an eye on top college bats like Sal Frelick (BOS), term Crosby (CIN) and several big-bodied prep arms as potential long shots. Players nabbed by large market clubs usually gain more attention that positively impacts cards long-term as well. Short prints and parallels of the cream of the crop like Lawlar and Leiter have the most blue-chip potential in this draft class if they pan out. Finding PSA 10s becomes key as any premium rookie cards move toward rarer, higher grades over time.

The 2021 MLB draft class looks remarkably talented with two consensus top prospects in Lawlar and Leiter headlining the way. Other elite college bats and power arms add to the intrigue. For collectors, 2021 Prizm Draft Picks offers an opportunity to get in early on the rookie cards of tomorrow’s stars. Patience will be required but holding top serial parallels of future impact major leaguers from this class could yield substantial appreciation down the road. Start tracking the progress of prospects from ’21 now and be ready when they blossom at baseball’s highest level.

2021 PRIZM DRAFT PICKS BASEBALL TOP CARDS

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The 2021 Prizm Draft Picks baseball card set featured prospects selected in the 2020 MLB Draft. Panini released the set in November 2021, showcasing the top rookies entering professional baseball. Prizm Draft Picks has become one of the hottest modern sets in the hobby over the past few years given the autograph and memorabilia cards of future stars. While it’s still early in the careers of the 2021 picks, let’s take a look at some of the top rookies and chase cards from the latest edition.

Heading into the 2021 season, the biggest name and most valuable card from the ’21 Prizm Draft Picks set was Rocker Refractor rookie auto (#76) of Jack Leiter. Leiter was drafted second overall by the Texas Rangers in the 2020 draft after a stellar college career at Vanderbilt University. As the son of former MLB pitcher Al Leiter, Jack stepped onto the field with huge expectations. In his debut professional campaign split between High-A and Double-A, Leiter flashed immense promise by posting a 2.50 ERA with 129 strikeouts in 111 innings. With his unique arm talent and pedigree, the prized Leiter rookie auto became a must-have for collectors. PSA 10 examples regularly sold for well over $1,000 online.

Other notable RCs (rookie cards) from the first round of the 2020 draft included Austin Martin (Blue Jays), Garrett Mitchell (Brewers), Nick Gonzales (Pirates), Reid Detmers (Angels) and Emerson Hancock (Mariners). The prizm refractors of those first rounders all held valuable status. Mitchell’s auto (#99) and Gonzales’ auto (#121) especially popped due to their solid MLB organizational placement and advanced offensive skills displayed in pro ball so far. Auto RCs from proven college sluggers Robert Hassell III (Padres #8 pick) and Jordan Walker (Cardinals #21 pick) also gained traction as assets in rookie collections.

Moving past the first round, a couple second day selections started to emerge as potential gems—namely Benny Montgomery (Rockies #8 pick) and Tyler Soderstrom (Athletics #26 pick). As a toolsy five-tool center fielder, Montgomery excited scouts with his athletic abilities. His blue prizm auto (/99) evolved into a key mid-round prospect investment. Meanwhile, Soderstrom flashed impressive left-handed power as a catcher straight out of high school. Collectors pounced on his prizm auto (/75) due to the rarity of teenage sluggers behind the plate. Both players debuted professionally strong in 2021, enhancing optimism around their cardboard.

When it comes to the biggest “hit” cards from ’21 Prizm Draft Picks in the early going, two stand above the rest – Tiger stripe mem cards of Tyler Soderstrom (#86) and Benny Montgomery (#91). Numbered to only 10 copies each, these dual-game-used memorabilia autos immediately became true megahits upon release with examples crossing eBay for over $2,000. Such ultra-low serialed mem cards featuring high-profile teens are the true white whales of the modern collecting landscape. With Soderstrom and Montgomery off to such promising starts too, those double-relic Tiger stripes are solid long-term keepsakes for prosperous collections.

In addition to the coveted autos and parallels, ’21 Prizm Draft Picks supplied collectors many other intriguing prospects to follow. Gold prizm refractors (/50) of Daniel Cabrera (Reds), Carlos Collado (Rays) and Kumar Rocker (Mets #10 pick, Al Leiter’s son’s Vanderbilt teammate) entered the hobby spotlight. Plus, prizm blues (/99) of Baylor draft selections Blake Robertson and Dylan Beavers, plus Andrew Painter’s green auto (/75), added to the set’s college-heavy prospect bounty. Even deeper selections like Chuck Carr’s magenta pink auto (/25) and Kale Emshoff’s purple auto (/50) intrigued scouts and investors digging for diamonds in the later rounds.

The 2021 Prizm Draft Picks baseball set delivered a huge bounty of the best amateur talents from the 2020 MLB Draft class for collectors to chase. While still very early in the careers of these prospects, standout rookies like Leiter, Martin, Mitchell and Gonzales clearly emerged at the top of the set demand-wise based on their prospect pedigrees and quick success in the minors. Ultra-short printed memorabilia cards of Soderstrom and Montgomery took the set to new heights as true Collector’s Corner flagship pieces. With many of these rookies projecting to impact the big leagues within the next couple seasons, ’21 Prizm Draft Picks established itself as an elite investment portfolio to hold long-term in the modern card market.

2021 PRIZM BASEBALL DRAFT PICKS BEST CARDS

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The 2021 MLB Draft featured many talented prospects that have the potential for stardom at baseball’s highest level. While it remains to be seen how these young players’ careers will unfold, collectors have already taken notice of some of the top names selected in last year’s draft class. Upper Deck’s 2021 Prizm baseball product offers affordable rookie cards for these newly drafted players, several of which have already seen noticeable price increases. Let’s take a closer look at some of the 2021 Prizm Baseball Draft Picks cards that could prove to most lucrative long-term holdings for savvy collectors.

Perhaps the biggest name from the 2021 draft class is Pittsburgh Pirates’ first overall selection Henry Davis. The catcher from Louisville was widely considered the best player available and finished runner-up for Golden Spikes Award as the top college player in the nation in 2021. His 2021 Prizm Orange Ice refractor rookie /499 has already eclipsed the $100 price point. The sheer scarcity and demand for Davis as the number one pick makes this one of the more valuable cards from the set at the moment. Davis will have plenty of opportunities to drive his values up even higher as the future backstop for the Pirates.

Detroit Tigers’ third overall pick Jackson Jobe has also impressed scouts with a plus fastball and well-rounded pitch mix. Jobe led the nation in strikeouts during his freshman season at Heritage Hall High School in Oklahoma City. His base Prizm Silver Prizm rookie sells in the $25-30 range currently. As long as Jobe continues developing his promising repertoire while rising through Detroit’s farm system, his Prizm rookies stand to gain more traction over the long run.

Another early draftee turning heads is Blue Jays’ fourth selection Gunnar Hoglund. The right-handed pitcher from Ole Miss underwent Tommy John surgery in 2021 but still landed a $3 million bonus from Toronto. Hoglund’s above average four-pitch mix and 6’4 size gives him a high ceiling if he can stay healthy. His Prizm Green Ice Prizm rookie /199 is priced modestly for now around $15-20 but is a solid long term prospecting target.

Later picks that could develop into steals for their respective organizations include Braves’ third round selection Ryan Cusick and Marlins’ fifth rounder Jacob Miller. Both prep arms flashed plus velocity that enticed their drafting clubs. Cusick’s Prizm Silver Pack Fresh Prizm rookie and Miller’s base Prizm rookie can currently be found for under $10 each, offering affordable upside plays. Paying attention to how these young hurlers progress might yield future rewards.

Switching to the offensive side, Tigers second rounder Izaac Pacheco has already shown five-tool potential in pro ball. Although drafted as a shortstop, the versatile Pacheco has split time at second and third base as well. His smooth lefty swing generated pop at the plate and his athleticism and instincts give him all-star upside. Priced around $15 presently, Pacheco’s Prizm Orange Ice Prizm rookie carries appeal as a potential breakout performer.

Looking further down draft boards, a few later selections with tools potentially waiting to blossom include Twins’ fourth rounder Armani Smith and A’s seventh rounder Lazaro Armenteros. Smith showcased elite speed that could profile in center field if his wood bat bat catches up. Meanwhile, Armenteros flashed big raw power from the left side to go along with a strong arm in right field. Both prospects can be obtained for under $10 per Prizm base rookie at this early stage, leaving room for appreciation as their games develop.

There are also a few 2021 draftees who opted not to sign professionally and instead intend to continue their college careers, headlined by Louisville catcher Henry Davis’ teammate and Ole Miss righty Drew McDaniel. While collectors will have to wait longer to see their first pro cards, Prizm collegiate rookies like Davis’ from 2020 have still conveyed solid returns for patient holders. McDaniel in particular has frontline starter upside and might re-enter next year’s draft class even more polished than before.

While it remains unknown how any of these players’ careers will play out long term, the 2021 MLB Draft class offers attractive risk-reward profiles for baseball card investors through affordable Prizm rookie options. With patience, some of these prospects could evolve into truly impact MLB talents whose earliest cardboard appearances increase greatly in value as a result. By doing thorough research on a player’s tools, skills and competitive nature, savvy collectors can identify draft picks most likely to blossom as professionals.

2021 LEAF DRAFT BASEBALL MOST VALUABLE CARDS

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The 2021 Leaf Draft baseball set featured prospects selected in the 2021 MLB June Amateur Draft. While not the biggest release of the year, it featured several highly touted prospects that have already seen their rookie cards start to gain value. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable 2021 Leaf Draft baseball cards on the market right now.

The undisputed king of the 2021 Leaf Draft set is Pittsburgh Pirates’ first overall pick Henry Davis. As the top selection in the entire draft, Davis’ prized rookie card /499 from Leaf Draft is one of the hottest prospects on the market. While print runs are still relatively high given it’s only been a few months since the cards were released, Davis’ Leaf Draft rookie has already started a meteoric rise in value. PSA 10 examples have sold for over $1,000 with the price steadily increasing. Even raw copies in near-mint to mint condition command $300-500 based on recent eBay sales.

Davis’ impressive performance in his pro debut for Low-A Bradenton only added to the hype. In 50 at-bats, Davis slashed .303/.429/.485 with 3 home runs. Scouts rave about his offensive upside as a power-hitting catcher, a rare combo. Davis has all the makings of a true five-tool player and future All-Star, making his rookie cards one of the smartest long-term prospects to hold. As he continues to develop, Davis’ Leaf Draft rookie could eventually rival the prices seen for top pick cards from years past like Adley Rutschman or Joe Mauer.

Another 2021 Leaf Draft card that has seen impressive early gains is Vanderbilt righty Jack Leiter, who was taken second overall by the Texas Rangers. Leiter came into the draft as one of the most polished pitching prospects in recent memory thanks to his time with the Commodores. He dominated in his pro debut with Short Season A Hickory, striking out 12 over 6 shutout innings in his first start. Leiter’s /499 Leaf Draft rookie has followed a similar upward trajectory to Davis. PSA 10 examples have reached $800-900 and raw NM/MT copies sell for $200-300. As Leiter continues to overperform, his card stands to gain even more in the coming years.

While Davis and Leiter were the consensus top two picks, another player from the draft class that has impressed is Robert Hassell III. Selected 8th overall by the San Diego Padres, Hassell has had an excellent start to his pro career. In 45 Low-A games, Hassell hit .299/.383/.457 with 5 home runs, showing off his impressive all-around game that made him a top-10 talent. As a result, his Leaf Draft rookie card /499 has seen a nice bump in value. PSA 10s have crossed $400 and raw NM copies range from $100-150 based on recent sales. Hassell has a bright future as a potential everyday player for the Padres and his card looks positioned well long-term.

Rounding out the most valuable 2021 Leaf Draft cards so far is Brady House, who the Rangers took in the competitive balance round. House was considered one of the draft’s top power bats and he’s started to flash that pop early in his career. In 32 games between the ACL and Low-A, House hit an impressive .310/.382/.510 with 3 homers. His /499 Leaf Draft rookie has followed suit, gaining value faster than expected for a later first-round pick. PSA 10 House rookies have reached $300 while raw NM/MT copies sell for $75-100. As House continues filling out his 6’4 frame and taps into more of his raw power, his card’s price trajectory looks very promising.

While the 2021 MLB Draft class remains relatively untested at the pro level, Davis, Leiter, Hassell, and House have stood out so far with their early performances. As a result, their prized rookie cards from Leaf’s 2021 Draft set have emerged as some of the most valuable on the secondary market. With their upside, these four players in particular stand to gain even more recognition that could send their rookie card values higher. For savvy collectors, snatching up PSA 10 or high-grade raw copies of these prospects now could prove to be shrewd long-term investments.

Beyond the top four, a few other 2021 Draft picks whose Leaf rookie cards have shown early gains include Jackson Jobe (Tigers), Sam Bachman (Marlins), and Benny Montgomery (Phillies). However, Davis, Leiter, Hassell, and House have separated themselves the most so far with their pro debuts and future star potential. Their Leaf Draft rookie cards have established themselves as the true blue-chip prospects from the 2021 class. As these talented players continue developing in the minors and hopefully reach the Majors one day, their coveted rookie cards could grow exponentially in value and become some of the most sought after modern prospect cards on the market. Only time will tell just how great these four players may become, but their Leaf Draft rookies offer collectors a prime opportunity to get in early on some of the newest prospects with superstar upside.