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2023 BASEBALL ROOKIE CARDS TO LOOK FOR

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The 2023 baseball season will see another exciting crop of rookie talent make their debuts in Major League Baseball. While it’s impossible to predict with certainty which rookies will emerge as future stars, here are some of the top prospects who could make an immediate impact and whose rookie cards collectors should be on the lookout for in the upcoming year.

Gunnar Henderson (Baltimore Orioles) – Widely considered the top prospect in baseball heading into 2023, Henderson had a phenomenal debut late in the 2022 season and looks poised to take over as the Orioles’ third baseman of the future. The 21-year-old has 80-grade power potential and elite bat-to-ball skills that could make him an annual All-Star. His rookie cards will likely be some of the most sought after on the market next season.

Adley Rutschman (Baltimore Orioles) – After a strong showing in his first full MLB season in 2022, Rutschman looks to cement his status as one of the game’s best young catchers. The 24-year-old switch hitter displayed impressive plate discipline and power for a catcher in his debut campaign. As the top overall pick in 2019 and a future cornerstone player, Rutschman’s rookies could retain value long-term.

Bobby Witt Jr. (Kansas City Royals) – Witt made a seamless transition to the big leagues in 2022, showcasing five-tool talent as a 21-year-old shortstop. He hit 20 home runs and stole 15 bases while playing stellar defense. Witt will likely continue improving and could push for all-star and rookie of the year honors in 2023. His flagship Topps rookie card from 2022 remains a hot commodity.

Spencer Torkelson (Detroit Tigers) – After a disappointing debut in 2022 where he struggled against MLB pitching, Torkelson will look to rebound as he continues adjusting to life as a corner infielder. The 22-year-old has huge raw power and was the top pick in 2020 for good reason – he has the skills to be a perennial 30-homer hitter. If he can put it all together next season, Torkelson’s rookies could surge in value.

Oneil Cruz (Pittsburgh Pirates) – Cruz made a splash in his debut late in 2022 with his mammoth home runs and elite speed and defense at shortstop. At 6-foot-7, the 23-year-old is a true physical marvel who still has room to grow into his enormous talents. He will be one of the most exciting players to watch in 2023. Cruz’s Topps Chrome Refractor rookie from 2022 is a must-own for collectors.

Jordan Walker (St. Louis Cardinals) – As the Cardinals’ top prospect, Walker has a chance to debut in 2023 and make an immediate impact with his prodigious raw power. The 21-year-old third baseman has drawn comparisons to Aaron Judge and has 80-grade power potential. He had an outstanding 2022 minor league campaign and his prospect cards could explode in value with a strong MLB debut.

Eury Pérez (Miami Marlins) – An electric center fielder with five-tool abilities, Pérez has the skills to become a perennial Gold Glove and batting title contender. The 21-year-old hit .312 with 17 home runs and 45 stolen bases between Double-A and Triple-A in 2022. He may not debut until mid-2023 but could be an instant star if called up. His prospect cards are flying under the radar.

Ezequiel Tovar (Colorado Rockies) – Still just 20 years old, Tovar has the defensive skills and hit tool to stick at shortstop long-term in Colorado. He hit .317 with 27 home runs and 40 stolen bases between High-A and Double-A last season. With a strong showing in spring training, Tovar could break camp as the Rockies’ starting shortstop in 2023. His prospect cards are a bargain.

Emerson Hancock (Seattle Mariners) – The Mariners’ top pitching prospect, the 23-year-old Hancock has ace-level stuff with a mid-90s fastball and plus slider. He returned from Tommy John surgery in 2022 to dominate the minors and looks ready to debut in 2023. As a former first-round pick with frontline potential, Hancock’s prospect cards are poised to appreciate significantly with a successful MLB debut.

Druw Jones (Arizona Diamondbacks) – As the second overall pick in 2022 out of high school, Jones immediately became one of the most sought-after prospects in baseball. He has five-tool potential like his father Andruw and could move quickly through the minors. While Jones may not debut until 2024, his prospect cards could explode in value as he develops his raw talents in the D-Backs system.

Brooks Lee (San Diego Padres) – The 2021 first-rounder had a breakout season between High-A and Double-A in 2022 by hitting .314 with 13 home runs and 24 stolen bases. Lee has the defensive skills and hit tool to stick at shortstop and could push for the Padres’ job as soon as 2023. The 22-year-old’s prospect cards are poised for gains with a strong MLB showing.

Cade Cavalli (Washington Nationals) – As the Nationals’ top pitching prospect, the 24-year-old Cavalli has the arsenal to succeed as a frontline starter with a 100 mph fastball and plus slider and curve. He made his MLB debut in 2022 and will compete for a rotation spot in 2023. Cavalli has ace upside and his prospect cards could surge if he grabs the fifth starter role.

Jackson Chourio (Milwaukee Brewers) – The 18-year-old outfielder was one of the biggest international signing bonuses in 2021 and immediately became one of baseball’s top prospects. Chourio has five-tool potential and hit .302 with 5 home runs in his pro debut season in the Florida Complex League in 2022. He may need some seasoning in the minors but has superstar upside that makes his cards an intriguing long-term hold.

While performance ultimately determines which rookies emerge as future stars, this group headlined by Gunnar Henderson, Adley Rutschman and Bobby Witt Jr. appear poised to make an immediate impact in 2023. Their rookie cards, as well as the prospects of Spencer Torkelson, Oneil Cruz and others, are some of the smartest investments collectors can make heading into the new season.

1989 UPPER DECK ROOKIE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1989 Upper Deck rookie baseball card set was truly groundbreaking and marked a milestone in the hobby. Upper Deck’s innovative designs, higher quality card stock, attention to details, and exclusive licensing deals helped transform baseball cards from a beloved children’s pastime into a serious collecting obsession.

Prior to Upper Deck’s debut in 1989, Donruss and Topps had dominated the baseball card market for decades with their standard size and design. But two entrepreneurs, Richard McWilliam and Dr. Ronald Davidson, saw potential to elevate the quality and appeal of baseball cards for older collectors. They secured licensing directly from Major League Baseball, rather than through the players association like other companies. This allowed Upper Deck more control over quality standards and distribution practices.

Upper Deck’s first set featured 405 total cards with a variety of innovative designs. The most iconic and valuable cards in the set naturally featured rookie seasons of future Hall of Famers and stars. Perhaps the crown jewel was Ken Griffey Jr’s incredibly sharp and colorful rookie card. Griffey was already generating incredible hype in his age 19 season with the Seattle Mariners and his Upper Deck rookie became the most sought after card in the entire set. In pristine condition, a Griffey rookie now fetches tens of thousands of dollars, making it one of the most valuable modern era cards ever produced.

Another transcendent rookie to debut in the 1989 Upper Deck set was Chipper Jones. Like Griffey, Jones made an immediate impact in the major leagues as a teenager and seemed destined for greatness. Despite playing for the unheralded Atlanta Braves at the time, Jones’ sharp looking Upper Deck rookie became a highly regarded card. Now considered one of the best third basemen in baseball history, a mint Chipper Jones rookie can sell for over $1,000. His popularity in Atlanta has only increased the card’s worth over the decades.

While Griffey and Jones grabbed most of the headlines, there were other impact rookies featured as well. Barry Larkin had a strong debut campaign for the Cincinnati Reds and his card became one of the more notable from the collection. As a future Hall of Famer at shortstop who won an MVP award, Larkin’s rookie remains one of the highest regarded from the set, routinely fetching over $100 even in well-worn condition. Similarly, the rookie cards of Gregg Jefferies, Frank Thomas, and Tom Glavine are considered valuable finds from packs due to their players’ eventual success in the big leagues.

In terms of sheer rarity and condition, one of the biggest 1989 Upper Deck gems is Ken Griffey Jr’s short printed rookie card (#151). The card was inadvertently produced in far fewer numbers than other cards in the base set, believed to be around 100 copies or fewer in mint condition. Even well-centered, non-perfect examples can sell for over $10,000 when one surfaces. Finding a pristine Griffey #151 rookie is the holy grail for superstar collectors and it would surely command well over $100,000.

While current players like Mike Trout, Ronald Acuna Jr and Juan Soto have shattered modern record for rookie card values in recent years, the 1989 Upper Deck set will always be revered for revolutionizing the industry and introducing some true icons to collectors. With its exceptional quality, eye-catching designs, and inclusion of future Hall of Famers just starting out, this is considered the most important modern issue. Today, finding affordable copies of great 80s and 90s rookie cards is difficult, but breaking open a wax pack of 1989 Upper Deck still holds a magic over 30 years later for baseball nostalgics of all ages.

The 1989 Upper Deck baseball cards were a true benchmark release that elevated the entire hobby. Featuring top rookies like Ken Griffey Jr, Chipper Jones, and Barry Larkin just starting their incredible careers, this set introduced some of the most iconic and valuable modern baseball cards ever. Upper Deck’s innovations in quality, design, and exclusive licensing deals helped transform baseball cards from children’s pastime to serious collecting obsession. The 1989 Upper Deck rookie cards of future stars will always be revered as some of the most important and investment worthy issues from the modern era.

1991 PRE ROOKIE AAA BASEBALL CARDS

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1991 Pre-Rookie AAA Baseball Cards

The 1991 season saw Topps release its second and final series of pre-rookie AAA baseball cards featuring up-and-coming minor league stars on the cusp of reaching the major leagues. Similar to their 1990 debut pre-rookie AAA issue, the 1991 version contained 36 future MLB all-stars among the 125 players featured. These cards gave collectors an early look at the next generation of baseball superstars, many of whom would go on to have Hall of Fame careers. Some of the top names included on the 1991 pre-rookie AAA set were Barry Bonds, Tom Glavine, David Justice, Gary Sheffield, and Mo Vaughn.

Topps had found success the prior year with its innovative concept of spotlighting top minor league prospects who had yet to make their MLB debuts. Baseball card enthusiasts eagerly awaited each new pre-rookie release to get a sneak peek at the brightest young talents developing in the minors. By 1991, demand had grown for another series capturing the next wave of up-and-coming stars. Topps delivered with a 125-card set divided into positions like the standard baseball card issues collectors had grown accustomed to.

Some of the most notable rookies included in the 1991 pre-rookie AAA set were Barry Bonds of the Pittsburgh Pirates organization and Tom Glavine of the Atlanta Braves. Both would go on to have legendary careers and eventually be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Bonds was selected as the set’s cover athlete and card #1 based on his status as one of the top prospects in baseball. Even at the AAA level in 1991, his awe-inspiring power was evident as he slugged .614 with 23 home runs for the Buffalo Bisons. Glavine also made his presence immediately known by earning National League Rookie of the Year honors after posting a 14-8 record and 2.76 ERA in his 1992 rookie season.

Other future stars featured in the 1991 pre-rookie AAA set who would achieve great MLB success included Gary Sheffield, David Justice, and Mo Vaughn. Sheffield blazed his way through the minors in 1991, slashing .336/.442/.579 between AA and AAA before debuting with the Brewers late that season. He would go on to accumulate 509 career home runs and bat .292 in 22 MLB seasons. David Justice earned a spot on the pre-rookie AAA cards after hitting 33 home runs between AA and AAA in 1991. He became a six-time All-Star during a decorated 14-year MLB career spent primarily with the Atlanta Braves. Mo Vaughn’s prodigious power was on full display in 1991 when he smacked 33 home runs and 104 RBI in AAA, earning him inclusion in the set prior to his breakout rookie season with Boston in 1992.

A number of other notable names made their cardboard debuts in the 1991 pre-rookie AAA issue like Kenny Lofton, Steve Avery, Ruben Sierra, Carlos Baerga, and Jeff Bagwell. Lofton stole 74 bases between AA and AAA before becoming a perennial All-Star and six-time Gold Glove center fielder in the big leagues. Steve Avery had posted a 2.99 ERA in AA ball in 1991 and would go 12-8 as a 21-year-old rookie for the 1991 World Series champion Braves. Ruben Sierra blasted 37 home runs in AAA before featuring his intimidating power for three different MLB clubs. Carlos Baerga delivered a .311 batting average in AAA en route to three All-Star selections and a Rookie of the Year award with the Indians. And Jeff Bagwell put up big RBI totals in the minors prior to becoming the 1991 NL Rookie of the Year and future Hall of Famer with the Astros.

Among the other future MLB standouts included on the 1991 pre-rookie AAA cards were Mike Piazza, Edgar Martinez, Bobby Higginson, Dave Martinez, Kevin Brown, Andres Galarraga, Jermaine Dye, and Aaron Sele. Piazza smashed 27 home runs in AAA before embarking on a legendary career that saw him inducted into Cooperstown. Edgar Martinez showcased his tremendous batting eye and hitting ability in the minors leading up to a 19-year MLB career spent entirely with the Mariners. Bobby Higginson emerged as a power-hitting outfielder for the Tigers after inclusion in the 1991 set. Dave Martinez went on to play 16 seasons in the majors despite not debuting until 1992 after a .338 average in AAA ball the prior year. Right-hander Kevin Brown dominated hitters throughout the minors and enjoyed success as a three-time All-Star. Andres Galarraga made a steady climb through the minors and would distinguish himself as “The Big Cat” with the Colorado Rockies. Jermaine Dye showcased the five-tool talent that would later net him an All-Star nod and Silver Slugger. Aaron Sele made a smooth transition from the minors to enjoying a steady big league career after his pre-rookie AAA card appearance.

While most of the standouts from the 1991 pre-rookie AAA set went on to long and productive MLB tenures, some others never quite panned out or dealt with injuries that derailed their careers. Pitchers like Bill Swift, Ken Hill, Kirk Bullinger, and John Johnstone all flashed potential but were hampered by arm issues. Outfielders like Darrin Jackson, Jerry Browne, and Gregg Jefferies saw their talents wasted due to lack of consistency or other factors preventing stardom. Third baseman Scott Cooper showed five-tool skills in the minors but failed to carry it over offensively in the majors. Catchers like Brad Ausmus, Matt Walbeck, and Scott Servais had respectable MLB careers despite never reaching All-Star heights. And multi-positional talents like Eddie Zosky, Jerry Browne, and Lenny Webster burned brightly in the minors only to fade in the bigs.

Regardless of eventual MLB success or failure, the players featured in Topps’ 1991 Pre-Rookie AAA Baseball Card Set provided a fun and informative look at some of the top minor league prospects on the cusp of graduating to “The Show.” Collectors enjoyed getting acquainted with future stars prior to their debuts and debating which prospects might make the biggest impact. Topps showcased their foresight and marketing acumen by capitalizing on the niche hobby category of pre-rookie minor leaguers. Now thirty years later, the 1991 Pre-Rookie AAA cards stand as an illuminating historical document that forecasted the arrival of so many future MLB greats just before they burst onto the scene. For both baseball and trading card aficionados alike, the 1991 edition remains a highly regarded set worthy of appreciation and study even decades after its original release.

TOP ROOKIE BASEBALL CARDS 2018

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The 2018 MLB rookie class had several rookies who made an immediate impact and their cards have become highly sought after by collectors. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the top rookie cards from 2018 that have generated a lot of buzz in the hobby.

Shohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Angels (Topps Series 1 #181, Topps Chrome #195): No rookie in 2018 had more hype surrounding them than Shohei Ohtani. The Japanese star signed with the Angels and showed off unreal two-way talent, pitching and hitting at an elite level. This made his rookie cards an instant must-have. While injured for most of 2019, collectors retained high interest and his rookies increased in value. The flagship Topps Series 1 is considered the premier Ohtani rookie and in top grade fetches $200-300. The parallels and color variations are also coveted, with the Topps Chrome leading as the highest valued Ohtani rookie around $400-500 PSA 10. No rookie cards from 2018 have seen more growth in such a short time.

Gleyber Torres, New York Yankees (Topps Series 1 #268, Topps Chrome #209): After being acquired by the Yankees in a trade, Torres wasted no time adjusting to MLB. He mashed in his rookie season, hitting .271 with 24 home runs and 77 RBIs, playing a key role for the Yankees’ playoff run. This electric performance generated immediate buzz and his rookie cards shot up. Topps Series 1 and Chrome rookies are a hot commodity, with PSA 10’s regularly selling above $100-150. His numbered parallels have seen the most dramatic appreciation, and short prints like Topps Chrome Sepia #’d /25 are approaching $1,000 raw. Torres looks primed to be a star for years to come and his rookies reflect massive belief in his future potential.

Ronald Acuña Jr., Atlanta Braves (Topps Series 1 #145, Topps Chrome #125): From the moment he debuted in late April, Acuña announced his presence with authority. He carried the Braves offense for stretches and finished with a .293 average, 26 homers, and 64 RBIs in only 111 games. Rated as baseball’s #1 prospect, Acuña lived up to expectations right away. This further increased his already high profile coming into the year. Both the Topps Series 1 and Chrome rookies have steadily climbed and a PSA 10 of either is now around $150-200. Short prints are even more valuable, with the elusive Topps Series 1 Bowman Platinum Auto /5 selling for over $3,000 raw. Acuña seems destined for superstardom and his cards will likely only appreciate from here.

Juan Soto, Washington Nationals (Topps Series 1 #168, Topps Chrome #149): Though just 19 years old for most of 2018, Soto played with poise well beyond his age. He hit .292 with 22 home runs and 70 RBIs, providing a major boost to the Nationals. His breakout season catapulted Soto into the national discussion as a true phenom. Currently, his rookie cards hold the second highest values of the 2018 class. A PSA 10 Topps Series 1 can fetch $150-200 while the Topps Chrome parallel is slightly more at $200-250. There is belief Soto will continue getting better and his rookies should remain highly collectible long term.

Walker Buehler, Los Angeles Dodgers (Topps Series 1 #302, Topps Chrome #270): Coming into 2018, Buehler was one of baseball’s elite pitching prospects and he shined right away in LA. Posting a 2.62 ERA over 151 innings between the regular season and playoffs, Buehler gave Dodgers fans championship-level hope for the future. Though overshadowed by the big bats, Buehler’s rookie cards gained collectors’ attention. A Topps Series 1 PSA 10 recently sold for over $100, while the prized Topps Chrome refractor numbered /2018 changed hands for close to $300 raw. Continued success will maintain long term demand for these coveted rookie pitchers cards.

Luis Castillo, Cincinnati Reds (Topps Series 1 #387, Topps Chrome #331): Coming into his own in 2018, Castillo struck out over 200 batters while going 7-7 with a 3.32 ERA as Cincinnati’s staff ace. This breakout elevated him as one of MLB’s top young arms. Though not a household name, Castillo started to gain recognition from hardcore collectors. His flagship Topps rookie settled around the $50-75 mark for a graded PSA 10 after starting the year closer to $20-30. Short prints and autos saw more pronounced jumps as well. With continued dominance on the mound, Castillo’s cards have room to climb even higher in coming years.

Max Muncy, Los Angeles Dodgers (Topps Series 1 #350, Topps Chrome #310): An incredible comeback story, Muncy went from struggling journeyman to hitting 35 home runs as an everyday player after joining the Dodgers. Busting out in a huge way at 27 years old, Muncy became a fan favorite overnight. While not a true rookie, the unexpected breakout generated buzz around his cardboard. Topps Chrome rookies have gained the most, rising to $50-75 PSA 10 as Muncy sustained his success in 2019. The storyline and performance captured imaginations and kept enthusiasts hunting his 2018 MLB debut cards.

Aaron Nola, Philadelphia Phillies (Topps Series 1 #86, Topps Chrome #56): As one of baseball’s best and most underrated starting pitchers, Nola’s talents have been evident for years even if Phillies team success lagged. In 2018, he finally gained national exposure by finishing third in NL Cy Young voting with a superb 2.37 ERA over 214 innings. This illuminated his potential and bumped up values of his 2014 rookie cards. Both the Topps flagship and Chrome are now around $75-100 in top grade, reflective of growing appreciation for Nola as a true ace and cornerstone player for Philadelphia going forward.

This covers some of the biggest standouts and most coveted rookie cards from the talented 2018 MLB class. With continued success on the field, these rookies should stay hot commodities for collectors for years to come. The breakouts of Ohtani, Acuña Jr., Torres, and Soto in particular made their rookie cards instant classics that will be prized holdings for savvy investors. It will be exciting to see which young stars from the 2019 and 2020 classes can achieve similar heights and generations of fans discovering their rookie cards.

HOTTEST ROOKIE BASEBALL CARDS 2023

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The 2023 MLB season saw another highly talented group of rookies make their big league debuts. While it’s still early, some have already shown immense promise and pro potential. As card collectors look ahead, these rookie players top the list of the hottest cards to target.

Adley Rutschman, C, Baltimore Orioles (2021 Draft)

Widely considered the top prospect in all of baseball entering 2023, Rutschman lived up to massive expectations in his first full MLB campaign. The switch-hitting catcher batted .254 with 13 home runs and didn’t look out of place calling games for Baltimore’s pitching staff. As the top pick in 2019 and a future star, Rutschman parallels and autographs from 2021 Bowman Draft and 2022 Topps are extremely coveted and will hold tremendous long-term value. Many predict he’ll be a perennial All-Star and the face of the Orioles franchise for years, making his rookie cards can’t-miss acquisitions.

Bobby Witt Jr., SS, Kansas City Royals (2019 Draft)

After a taste of the majors in 2022, Witt established himself as the Royals’ starting shortstop in 2023 and did not disappoint. The dynamic athlete hit .258 with 20 homers and 30 steals, showing five-tool promise. His smooth swing and defensive instincts have drawn comparisons to Francisco Lindor. Witt’s 2019 Bowman Draft auto parallels will be out of reach price-wise for most collectors, but affordable 2020 Donruss paper parallels and 2022 Topps base cards present opportunities on a top young star. Witt looks poised for stardom and will drive interest in his rookie offerings.

Oneil Cruz, SS, Pittsburgh Pirates (2015 IFA)

At 6-foot-7 with sheer raw power, Cruz is simply a sight to behold at the plate. After a strong October call-up in 2022, he broke out with Pittsburgh in 2023 – batting .275 with 15 homers in just 109 games. His immense tools have elicited whispers of being a future MVP candidate. However, Cruz signed as an international free agent back in 2015, making his earliest cards from that period quite scarce. 2016 Bowman Draft parallels may be obtainable eventually, but Cruz is guaranteed to drive hunts for any of his early cardboard.

Julio Rodriguez, OF, Seattle Mariners (2018 Draft)

Already a household name after his electric AL Rookie of the Year campaign in 2022, J-Rod upped his game even further in 2023 by batting .284 with 25 homers while playing dynamite defense in right field. Still just 23, his massive upside and marketability as the face of the Mariners makes his cardboard extremely popular. 2018 Bowman Draft autos or 2019 Bowman Chrome parallels are the obvious prizes, but even 2022 Topps base RC’s hold strong value long-term on a player destined for superstardom. Rodriguez sits at the very top of the must-own rookie hierarchy.

Spencer Strider, SP, Atlanta Braves (2019 Draft)

An electric late-season debut in 2022 led many to peg Strider as the Braves’ ace of the future. In 2023, he proved he belonged by posting a stellar 3.03 ERA with 167 strikeouts over 152.1 innings as Atlanta’s Friday starter. The flame-throwing righty operates with a 100-mph fastball and lethal knuckle curve. While 2019 Bowman Draft autos will cost a fortune, 2020 Bowman Chrome Update parallels are much more obtainable on a future frontline starter. Strider seems a lock for Cy Young consideration down the road.

Brendan Donovan, UTIL, St. Louis Cardinals (2019 Draft)

A surprise breakout star in 2023, the versatile Donovan batted .321 playing all over the diamond for St. Louis. He does a bit of everything and is a coaches’ dream with his high baseball IQ and competitive nature. Scouts rave about his potential as a future star. While not possessing elite tools, Donovan’s production and role on a perennial contender thrust him to the forefront. His scarce 2019 Bowman Draft autos are hotly sought, but 2020 Donruss paper parallels offer a more reasonable target. Donovan looks like a career .300 hitter and leader in the Cards’ clubhouse.

George Kirby, SP, Seattle Mariners (2019 Draft)

A consensus top pitching prospect heading into 2023, Kirby proved ready for the bigs by posting a strong 3.39 ERA as Seattle’s second starter. He commanded an impressive four-pitch mix headlined by a 96-mph sinker. Kirby also brought terrific makeup and pitchability. While a bit older as a college draftee in 2019, the 24-year-old righty is just getting started. His 2019 Bowman Draft auto RC’s remain some of the most valuable modern rookie cards on the market. The future is extremely bright for Kirby as an ace.

Brennan Davis, OF, Chicago Cubs (2018 Draft)

After a few injury-riddled seasons in the minors, Davis stayed healthy in 2023 and earned Chicago’s everyday right field job. The gifted 6’4″ athlete showed plus power with 12 homers in just 78 games while playing excellent defense. At only 23, Davis has all the skills to develop into a perennial All-Star if he can stay on the field. While 2018 Bowman Draft and 2019 Chrome Update parallels will fetch premium prices, later prospect cards still offer affordable entrance. Davis looks ready to bust out in 2024.

Eury Perez, SS, Washington Nationals (2020 IFA)

Signed out of the Dominican Republic in 2020, Perez opened scouts’ eyes in 2023 by batting .289 with 16 homers as Washington’s starting shortstop at age 21. He possesses smooth actions, a line-drive swing and elite makeup on the field. Perez’s raw tools still have room to grow as well. While not in the status of a Bobby Witt Jr. just yet, Perez looks built for stardom long-term. His scarce earlier prospect cards will see strong upward movement as his game develops. Even 2022 Chrome Update paper RC’s offer a solid speculation play.

Oneil Cruz and Adley Rutschman top the rankings as the consensus top rookies of 2023 with massive long-term potential. This class featured a number of impact performers who look primed to develop into future All-Stars like Julio Rodriguez, Bobby Witt Jr. and Spencer Strider. While their rarest rookie cards will carry astronomical prices, later prospect issues still offer affordable entry points on emerging talents. For collectors seeking value and upside, this class provides abundant opportunities across all price points.

VALUABLE ROOKIE BASEBALL CARDS

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Some of the most valuable rookie baseball cards belong to players who went on to have Hall of Fame careers in Major League Baseball. These rookie cards were produced decades ago and only a limited number were printed, contributing to their scarcity and high prices today. For serious collectors looking to add a true piece of sports memorabilia history to their collections, here are some of the most valuable rookie baseball cards on the market.

Honus Wagner – 1909 T206 – Estimated Value: Over $1 million

Considered the Holy Grail of sports cards, the 1909 T206 Honus Wagner card is arguably the most valuable trading card in existence. Only about 60 authentic Wagner rookies are known to exist today in varying conditions. What makes this card so rare is that Wagner demanded his card be removed from production shortly after initial prints due to his disdain for cigarettes, which sponsored the T206 set. As a result, far fewer Wagner rookies made it into circulation compared to other players. Its valuation has broken record after record at auction. In recent years, mint condition examples have sold for over $1 million, making this truly one of a kind piece of baseball history.

Babe Ruth – 1914 Baltimore News – Estimated Value: $250,000+

While not exactly a true rookie card since it was produced during Babe Ruth’s time with the minor league Baltimore Orioles, the 1914 Baltimore News card features one of the first known images of the legendary slugger. Like Wagner’s T206, scarcity plays a role in its high value since it was part of a small local newspaper promotional run rather than a nationwide mass produced set. Graded mint examples in the 8-10 range have reached $200,000 at auction. For depicting one of baseball’s all-time greats so early in his professional career, this highly sought after pre-rookie makes lists of the costliest collectibles.

Mickey Mantle – 1951 Bowman – Estimated Value: $100,000+

The centrepiece of any valuable rookie card collection, a pristine Mickey Mantle 1951 Bowman in a Near Mint to Mint grade will pull in a six-figure price at major auction. As one of the earliest Topps competitors, Bowman had smaller print runs which increased scarcity over time. Mantle went on to have a Hall of Fame career with the New York Yankees and remains one of the most iconic players in baseball history. The photograph featured is also among the earliest known images of the “Commerce Comet” in his MLB rookie season. Demand and value for this true star’s debut remains exceedingly high decades after its release.

Sandy Koufax – 1955 Bowman – Estimated Value: $50,000+

Much like the Mantle above it, the 1955 Bowman Sandy Koufax rookie holds icon status for anyone interested in the early years of one of baseball’s all-time great pitchers. Koufax won 3 Cy Young Awards and was the first pitcher to win the award in both Leagues during his brilliant yet abbreviated 12-year career largely due to arthritis. The scarcity of his rookie combined with his excellence on the mound and tragic early retirement have made this one of the costliest pitching cards available. Near Mint to Mint condition versions remain a prized find for collectors with examples consistently reaching at least $50,000 at major auctions.

Willie Mays – 1951 Bowman – Estimated Value: $25,000+

Commonly found alongside the Mantle as one of the greatest rookies from the vintage 1950-51 Bowman set, the Willie Mays card endures as another valuable and iconic piece of memorabilia from the early days of “The Say Hey Kid.” Mays went on to a Hall of Fame career spanning over two decades while winning two MVP awards as amember of the iconic New York and San Francisco Giants. Like Koufax above, the rarity of his 1951 Bowman rookie combined with his legendary status has maintained strong collector demand and values near the five figure range for high grade copies to this day.

Mike Schmidt – 1974 Topps – Estimated Value: $10,000+

The first true cardboard appearance of baseball’s all-time home run leader among third basemen, the 1974 Topps Mike Schmidt rookie remains a respected find. Schmidt won 10 Gold Glove Awards and 3 MVPs over a distinguished 21 year career spent entirely with the Philadelphia Phillies organization. While print runs were larger in the mid-’70s versus a decade prior, the condition sensitiveSchmidt rookie holds greater value in higher 8-9 grades. It remains one of the most historically significant third baseman cards available and regularly makes lists for that elite position. Pristine copies continue commanding mid five figures.

Tom Seaver – 1967 Sporting News – Estimated Value: $7,500+

Pre-dating his famous 1968 Topps rookie by a year, the 1967 Sporting News Tom Seaver card is also considered a key debut by serious collectors. Seaver was one of the most dominant starting pitchers of his generation, winning 3 Cy Young Awards and over 300 career games primarily with the New York Mets. Scarcer than his ’68 Topps issue that followed, this earlier Sporting News portrayal remains quite valuable in top condition due to Seaver’s legendary career, Hall of Fame enshrinement, and the card’s status as one of the first mass produced images of him as a professional ballplayer. Near Mint copies average several thousand.

There are other notable rookie baseball cards like PSA 10 examples of Ron Cey (1974), Tony Gwynn (1981), Cal Ripken Jr. (1982), and Mariano Rivera’s (1992 Leaf) that can fetch prices upwards of $5,000 as well. The cards profiled above often regarded as the true holy grails of the hobby due to the legends portrayed, their eras of issue with much lower print runs, and the careers had by these all-time greats after their rookie seasons ended up raising values significantly overtime to levels usually reserved for paintings or other well-known works of art. For serious collectors, owning a high quality example of one of these prestigious debuts represents obtaining a true historical artifact with a pedigree that can be passed down for generations.

ROOKIE BASEBALL CARDS ON EBAY

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Rookie baseball cards have long captivated collectors for their potential to showcase future Hall of Fame talents in their early career. With sites like eBay providing accessible marketplaces, amateur collectors and serious investors alike can now explore the market for these prized rookie cards.

Some key things to understand about buying and selling rookie baseball cards on eBay include discerning between true rookie cards versus prospect cards, establishing a card’s true condition and value, being wary of fakes and reprints, understanding typical sale trends, and remaining patient as an investor. Let’s explore each of these topics in more depth:

Defining Rookie Cards: When scouting for rookie cards on eBay, it’s important to verify that a particular card truly qualifies as a player’s “rookie” since the definition has shifted over time. Generally, for modern issues from the 1990s onward, the earliest licensed major league appearance of a player in a given sport is considered their official rookie card. For older pre-1990s cards, there is more ambiguity and prospect cards may also hold value. Do research to understand when a player truly broke into the majors versus when they first appeared on a baseball card.

Grading and Condition: Just like at the minor league level, not every top prospect pans out in the majors. But those who do can make their early cards extremely valuable, sometimes hundreds of thousands of dollars for near-pristine specimens. It is therefore crucial to pay close attention to a card’s condition and have a reputable grading service like PSA or BGS authenticate its state. Even fractional differences in grades can mean thousands of dollars less in value. Always scrutinize photos from multiple angles before bidding to avoid overpaying.

Awareness of Fakes and Reprints: As values have skyrocketed, so too has the industry of counterfeiters hoping to profit. Be extremely wary of deals that seem too good to be true and study distinguishing hallmarks between genuine vintage cards and clever forgeries. Also be wary of reprint sets from the 1980s and 90s as they have no resale value despite showing the same image. Ask detailed questions of sellers and do your homework on identifiers.

Tracking Past Sales: The ultimate test of a card’s worth is what others have actually paid for it on the open market. Sites like eBay allow you to search “sold listings” to view exact sales prices for comparable cards in similar conditions. See recent trends on cards for stars like Mike Trout, Bryce Harper, and others to understand typical rates of rise or fall. Pricing your own cards both reasonably but also to sell is an art that takes experience.

Patience as an Investor: Unless you get extremely lucky, most cards invested in will not make you an overnight millionaire. The key is identifying future stars very early, like players still in the minors, and holding their cards for 5-10+ years as their careers blossom. Treat it as a long-term investment that may take patience. Selling at the right moment can still yield great returns with the right research and foresight into a player’s projected longevity.

While sports cards should always be a hobby enjoyed first and an investment second, understanding the unique nuances of the rookie card market on sites like eBay allows collectors to buy and sell smartly. With diligent research into condition, track records, beware of risks, and a longer view of returns, exploring rookie cards offers a fun way to engage with the sport while also potentially finding tomorrow’s legends from yesterday’s greenest of rookies. Just remember to always have realistic expectations.

BEST BASEBALL ROOKIE CARDS 2022

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The 2022 MLB season saw the debut of many highly touted prospects and future stars. While it’s still early in their careers, some rookies made a big enough splash that their rookie cards from 2022 are already gaining value and attention from collectors. Let’s take a look at some of the top rookie cards from this past season that could end up being valuable long-term holdings.

Spencer Torkelson – Detroit Tigers – 2021 Topps Chrome RC – Torkelson was the number one overall pick in 2020 and made his MLB debut in 2022. While he struggled at the plate initially and spent time in the minors, Torkelson showed flashes of why he was such a coveted prospect. His smooth left-handed swing and impressive power make him one to watch. The 2021 Topps Chrome rookie card is his main rookie card and will be the one that gains the most value if Torkelson develops into the All-Star caliber player most scouts predicted. Graded gem mint 10 copies have already sold for over $100, indicating collectors have faith in his future.

Bobby Witt Jr. – Kansas City Royals – 2022 Topps Chrome Yellow RC – Witt lived up to the hype in his first season, showing off elite skills both offensively and defensively at third base. He made the AL All-Star team in his rookie year, a testament to his immediate impact. The Yellow parallel from Topps Chrome is the hottest card from his rookie season. With a print run of just /150, these scarce yellow refractors command over $1000 already. Witt looks like a future perennial All-Star and MVP candidate – his rookie cards could end up being some of the best investments from the 2022 class.

Julio Rodriguez – Seattle Mariners – 2022 Topps Chrome RC – J-Rod exploded onto the scene, showing five-tool talent that helped energize the Mariners’ playoff push. His electric plays and prodigious power have fans in Seattle believing they have a new franchise cornerstone. The Topps Chrome base card remains one of the most affordable options for now at around $50-75 graded. But with Rodriguez likely to rack up awards and accolades in the coming years, this could very well emerge as one of the top rookie cards from 2022’s rookie class.

Michael Harris II – Atlanta Braves – 2022 Topps Chrome RC – Harris made a seemingly flawless transition to starting center fielder for the defending champs. He hit for average and power, stole bases, and covered ground in the outfield with ease. The Braves look to have another budding star on their hands. With the franchise’s history of success and Harris’ five-tool ability, his Topps Chrome base RC could appreciate significantly if he fulfills his potential. For now it’s still affordable, making it a solid long-term prospecting card.

Adley Rutschman – Baltimore Orioles – 2022 Topps Chrome RC – After years of being the top catching prospect in baseball, Rutschman finally made the jump to the majors in 2022. While he had an up and down season statistically, he showed all the skills that made him such a blue chip prospect. As the future cornerstone of the Orioles’ rebuild, Rutschman has franchise player potential that could drive his rookie cards to great heights. The Topps Chrome base remains one of the more affordable options for now at under $50 graded.

Oneil Cruz – Pittsburgh Pirates – 2022 Topps Chrome Green RC /150 – Cruz exploded onto the scene with his mammoth home runs and laser throws from shortstop. At 6’7″, the toolsy infielder has a rare combination of size and skills that captivates fans. The Green parallel from Topps Chrome is limited to just 150 copies. High grades have already eclipsed $1000, showing Cruz already has a strong collector following. As one of the most exciting rookies of 2022, Cruz’ cards could appreciate significantly if he becomes the perennial All-Star his abilities project.

Griffin Jax – Minnesota Twins – 2022 Topps Chrome Orange RC /199 – Jax had a breakout season as a key member of the Twins’ starting rotation. His power sinker stood out, as did his ability to miss bats with three above average pitches. As a former 3rd round pick who was not as heralded as others on this list, Jax emerged as one of the bigger surprises and success stories of 2022. His Topps Chrome Orange parallel is limited to just 199 copies. For a relatively unheralded prospect, Jax has the makings of a solid mid-rotation starter that could drive appreciation of this scarce parallel card.

George Kirby – Seattle Mariners – 2022 Topps Chrome Blue RC /150 – Kirby made a seamless transition from the minors to anchoring the Mariners’ rotation. His plus fastball and slider showed why he was such a coveted prospect. Playing in Seattle alongside Rodriguez and surrounded by other young stars, Kirby has the opportunity to emerge as the ace of a potential powerhouse pitching staff. The Blue parallel from Topps Chrome is limited, and high grades have already eclipsed $500. Kirby has all the tools to be the next great Mariners starter – making his rookie cards solid long term investments.

Jack Leiter – Texas Rangers – 2022 Topps Chrome Gold RC /50 – Leiter lived up to lofty expectations in his first MLB season. He flashed a plus fastball and showed the poise of a veteran despite being a rookie. As a former number two overall pick with ace upside, Leiter has a high ceiling that could drive his cards to new heights. The ultra rare Topps Chrome Gold parallel is limited to a tiny print run of just 50 copies. Even raw copies have sold for over $1000 due to Leiter’s star potential. This scarce parallel may emerge as one of the true crown jewels from the 2022 rookie class.

While it’s still early in the careers of these rookies, some like Witt Jr., Rodriguez and Harris have already shown the talent to be future superstars. Their flagship rookie cards remain affordable for now but could appreciate significantly with continued success. Other players like Torkelson, Rutschman and Kirby still need more time to develop but have the skills and opportunities to emerge as franchise cornerstones. Their base rookie cards offer prospects at reasonable entry points. Meanwhile, the short printed parallels of Cruz, Jax and Leiter offer scarcity for collectors pursuing rarer options from the 2022 class with breakout potential. All in all, several rookies from this past season have the makings of rookie cards that age very well as long term investments.

2021 BASEBALL ROOKIE CARDS TO LOOK FOR

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The 2021 MLB season saw several highly touted prospects make their debuts and start to prove themselves at the highest level of play. While it’s still early in their careers, these rookies showed a lot of promise and their rookie cards have already started to gain value amongst collectors. Let’s take a look at some of the top rookie cards from 2021 that collectors should keep an eye on in the coming years.

One of the most hype rookies of 2021 was Wander Franco of the Tampa Bay Rays. Considered a true five-tool superstar, Franco stunned baseball with a .288 batting average, 7 home runs, and 39 RBI in just 70 games in his debut season. The shortstop position is one with few elite options, making Franco’s skills that much more valuable. His Topps Chrome Sapphire Prizm Orange refractors and Topps Finest Sapphire parallels seem to be gaining the most traction currently. Given Franco’s unlimited potential and the talent level he showed as a 20-year old, his cards could become some of the most valuable of this generation if he continues progressing.

Another highly touted rookie who impressed was Rangers outfielder Adolis Garcia. The 28-year old Cuban defector broke out in a huge way, slashing .243/.301/.466 with 31 home runs and 90 RBI. That power output led all MLB rookies and helped spark the Rangers’ unexpected playoff push. Topps Chrome Sapphire Prizm Reds and Bowman Platinum Autographs of Garcia have seen solid early gains in value. With a few more productive seasons, Garcia could develop into a real fan favorite in Texas which would undoubtedly help the appeal of his rookie cards long term.

In Arizona, Wyatt Mathisen didn’t see extended playing time but made the most of his brief cup of coffee. In just 33 at-bats, Mathisen blasted 4 home runs and showed some serious pop from both sides of the plate. His Bowman Chrome Sapphire Prizm Blues parallel and Topps Finest Fire parallel refractors seem primed to take off if he gets more playing time to prove himself in 2022. Mathisen will be one to watch, especially for Diamondbacks fans collecting players from their system.

The San Diego Padres saw top prospects like MacKenzie Gore, Ryan Weathers, and Jake Cronenworth graduate to the big leagues, leaving a new crop of farmhands to follow. One of the most interesting is C.J. Abrams, a shortstop who was called up late in the year. In 58 at-bats with the Padres, he showed solid power and speed with a .232 average, 3 HRs and stolen base. Abrams’ Bowman Chrome Sapphire Prizm Orange parallels and Topps Finest Sapphire parallels are really heating up online. He has the skills to cement himself as San Diego’s shortstop of the future within the next couple seasons and could become one of the premier young stars in baseball if it all clicks.

The Boston Red Sox touted top prospects Triston Casas and Jarren Duran got their first extended tastes of MLB action in 2021. Of the two, Casas in particular drew rave reviews for his hitting prowess and defensive abilities at first base. In 46 games, he slashed .241/.311/.356 with 3 homers and 13 RBI. His 2021 Silver Pack Perspectives Autograph and Topps Fire parallel refractors seem to be some of the more sought after releases showing up online recently. Duran dazzled with his speed, swiping 20 bases in just 98 games, and could develop into the leadoff man Boston needs if he refines his approach. Both have promising futures and talented rosters around them, putting their rookies cards in a good position to gain long term value for collectors.

Switching to the American League East, the Tampa Bay Rays called up shortstop Vidal Brujan for 35 games late in the year. Brujan impressed with his blazing speed and contact skills, hitting .227 with 9 stolen bases in limited playing time. His defensive versatility also adds to his intrigue. Brujan’s 2021 Bowman Chrome Sapphire Prizm Blues and Topps Finest Sapphire parallels have already started to climb as fans eagerly anticipate him playing everyday in 2022. If he can show more consistency at the plate to go with his top-flight skills, Brujan could blossom into a perennial All-Star and one of the game’s most dynamic players.

Over in the NL West, the Los Angeles Dodgers saw top pitching prospects like Bobby Miller, Ryan Pepiot, and Andre Jackson all make their MLB debuts in 2021. Of the bunch, Miller in particular wowed scouts by dealing 100mph heat and a biting slider in his few appearances late in the year. He could be on the fast track to the Dodgers rotation in 2022. Miller’s 2021 Bowman Chrome Sapphire Prizm Orange parallels seem to be gaining in value the most now. They present an investment opportunity, as his upside is sky high if he develops hissecondary pitches to match the electric stuff that’s already Major League ready.

Switching leagues, Baltimore Orioles pitcher John Means emerged as one of the game’s pleasant surprises in 2021. After a All-Star caliber first half, Means finished with a 3.62 ERA and 140 strikeouts in 165.2 innings. His 2021 Topps Chrome Sapphire Prizm Red and Bowman Platinum Parallels are some of the more expensive O’s rookie options on the market today as collectors bet on Means cementing himself as the staff ace going forward. His breakout season showed this former undrafted pitching has what it takes to succeed in the AL East for years to come if he remains consistent.

While it’s still very early in the careers of these rookies, several showed flashes of genuine star potential in their MLB debut campaigns in 2021. Franco, Abrams, Miller, and Brujan in particular seem poised for stardom if their development continues on track. Their top rookie cards from flagship Topps products as well as Chrome, Finest, and higher end sets like Bowman Platinum offer affordable investment opportunities for long term upside as these young stars hopefully rise to the top of the league. Be sure to keep an eye on these talented rookies throughout 2022 and beyond as their card values could really take off with more success on the field.

2018 ROOKIE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 2018 MLB season saw several rookie players make an immediate impact in Major League Baseball. These top newcomers have already produced valuable rookie cards for collectors only one year after their professional debuts. The dominance and hype around certain 2018 rookies have led to some cards gaining even more value in a short time. With their early success and long careers still ahead, many of these rookie cards offer strong investment potential.

One of the most noteworthy rookies of 2018 was Japanese two-way phenom Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Angels. Playing as both a pitcher and hitter, Ohtani’s rare two-way talents had not been seen in the big leagues for over a century. His debut was highly anticipated and Ohtani delivered, hitting .285 with 22 home runs and 61 RBI as a designated hitter while also posting a 3.31 ERA with 63 strikeouts over 10 starts on the mound. The excitement around Ohtani led to his 2018 Topps Baseball rookie card gaining immediate value, rising above $100 shortly after release. With Ohtani’s unique dual talents and marketability in both the United States and Japan, his rookie card is projected to appreciate substantially over the long run as one of the most significant cards in recent history.

Another highly coveted rookie in 2018 wasAtlanta Bravesoutfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. Coming into the season ranked as baseball’s top overall prospect byMLB.com, Acuña did not disappoint in his first full year in the majors. He hit an impressive .293 with 26 home runs and 64 RBI while adding 21 stolen bases in only 111 games. At just 20 years old, Acuña arrived in the majors with a rare five-tool talent package and continued to improve over the season’s second half. His athleticism and flair for the dramatic helped him become a breakout star, driving significant demand for his 2018 Bowman Chrome Draft Auto Refractor rookie card. Currently valued over $400, Acuña’s rookies appear poised to exponentially rise in coming years should he fulfill his superstar potential.

Another highly regarded rookie performer in 2018 was San Diego Padres shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr. Though limited to only 84 games due to injury, Tatis made the most of his opportunity by hitting .286 with 16 home runs and 43 RBI in his age-19 season. He demonstrated elite tools with tremendous raw power, elite speed, and strong defense as one of the sport’s premier young middle infielders. Tatis made an immediate splash as one of baseball’s top prospects and his 2018 Bowman Chrome Prospect Auto Refractor rookie card retailed for over $150 near the end of the season. As Tatis gains more experience at baseball’s highest level and develops into an all-star caliber player, his card values are expected to multiply rapidly in the years ahead as one of the most valuable Padres cards ever.

Two other key rookies from 2018 who have demonstrated potential for significant growth have been Gleyber Torres of the New York Yankees and Juan Soto of the Washington Nationals. Torres batted .278 with 24 home runs and 77 RBI in his first full MLB season at just 21 years old. He took over as the Yankees’ everyday second baseman and should develop into a franchise cornerstone. Torres’ 2018 Topps Chrome Prospects Refractor rookie card averaged around $50-75 last fall. Juan Soto had one of the finest rookie campaigns in recent history, hitting .292 with 22 home runs and 70 RBI at only 19 years old. He added six more postseason home runs and hit cleanly throughout the Nationals’ World Series run. Soto emerged as one of MLB’s brightest young stars and his 2018 Bowman Chrome Prospect Auto Refractor rookie sells for over $100 presently. Both players have All-Star upside and their rookie cards stand to significantly increase with sustained excellence.

Another name that stood out among rookies in 2018 was Milwaukee Brewers reliever Josh Hader. Transitioning seamlessly from starter to dominant late-inning reliever, Hader posted a 2.43 ERA with 143 strikeouts over only 81.1 innings in his first full major league season. His repertoire of elite plus fastball and wipeout slider allowed him to dominate hitters from both sides of the plate. Hader solidified himself as one of baseball’s premier young closers and has turned into a workhorse in Brewers’ playoff runs the past two seasons. His 2018 Topps Chrome Prospects Refractor has climbed above $75 with his ascension as an established shutdown left-handed reliever. With continued success in a late-inning role, Hader’s 2018 rookie card seems poised to cross the $100 threshold soon.

While not a true rookie in the traditional sense after making his debut late in 2017, New York Metssecond baseman Jeff McNeil still qualifies as a rookie card-eligible player in many collectors’ eyes for the 2018 season. McNeil broke out as one of baseball’s biggest surprises in 2018, batting an astounding .329 over 136 games while playing sterling defense at second base, in left field, and even shortstop in a pinch. McNeil’s elite contact skills and ability to play all over the diamond have solidified him as an important starter for the Mets. His 2018 Topps Series 2 rookie card jumped from around $10-15 over the summer to hovering around $25-30 presently. With McNeil cementing himself as an everyday player, there is strong belief his 2018 rookie cards could surpass $50 within a couple years.

Those represented above comprised some of baseball’s most successful and impactful rookies from the 2018 MLB season. One year later, their rookie cards have already gained respectable value as collectors gambled on their early MLB promise blossoming into sustained brilliance at the game’s highest level. While investment risks remain in any cards issued only a single season ago, the upside potential appears enormous for rookies like Ohtani, Acuña, Tatis, Torres, Soto and others should their careers continue ascending. For savvy collectors willing to hold onto these rookies long-term, their cards offer chances for exponential returns down the road. With sustained excellence, many of these 2018 rookie cards may emerge among the most historically significant baseball cards of the modern era in the years still ahead.