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BEST ROOKIE BASEBALL CARDS 1990

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The 1990 baseball season saw the debut of many future stars that went on to have outstanding MLB careers. Their rookie cards have become some of the most popular and valuable from the early 90s. While the junk wax era severely depressed baseball card values in the late 80s, certain rookies from 1990 have maintained their popularity due to the accomplishments and fame of the players they feature. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the best rookie cards from the class of 1990.

Perhaps the most notable rookie card from 1990 is that of future Hall of Famer Frank Thomas from Bowman. As the 17th overall pick in the 1989 draft by the Chicago White Sox, Thomas quickly established himself as one of the game’s elite power hitters. In his rookie season of 1990, Thomas hit .301 with 21 home runs and 70 RBIs. This incredible debut made his rookie card extremely sought after. While printing numbers are high due to being from the Bowman set, graded gem mint copies have sold for over $2,000 due to Thomas’s stellar 21-year career that saw him hit .301 with 521 home runs and 1,704 RBIs. He won two MVP awards in 1993 and 1994, finishing in the top 5 eight times during his career. Few rookie cards can match the on-field performance and pop culture cache of “The Big Hurt.”

Another star slugger who debuted in 1990 was Larry Walker from Score. As the Canadian native and former Expo, Walker went on to have a brilliant 17-year career, hitting .313 with 383 home runs and 1,311 RBIs. He was a notorious slow starter, but 1990 saw him hit .293 with 3 home runs in 49 games for Montreal. Walker would go on to have his finest seasons with the Rockies in the late 90s, winning the 1997 NL MVP. High-grade copies of his rookies have sold for over $500. While printing numbers are also quite high for Score issues, Walker’s international stardom and dominant late career peak have kept collectors interested in acquiring this Hall of Fame-worthy rookie.

Two other players whose iconic 1990 rookies have maintained strong valuations are Andy Pettitte from Score and Jeff Bagwell from Fleer. As Yankee teammates on their way to numerous World Series victories, Pettitte and Bagwell debuted against each other in professional baseball, with Pettitte getting the win for Class A Oneonta over Class A Kissimmee, the Astros affiliate where Bagwell played. As a Yankee farmhand in 1990, Pettitte went 5-0 with a 2.19 ERA in nine games before joining New York late that season. He went on to win 256 games over 18 years mostly with the Yankees, winning 5 World Series. His Score rookie is a highly desired piece for any vintage Yankee PC. Likewise, Jeff Bagwell exploded onto the scene in 1990, clubbing 15 homers as a September call-up after dominating in the minors. The 1991 NL Rookie of the Year and 1994 NL MVP, Bagwell bashed 449 career home runs with a .297 batting average. His Fleer rookie remains one of the most iconic cards from the early 90s despite being printed heavily. High grades have hit the $300 range or more due to Bagwell’s superstar career.

Three 1991 rookie phenoms whose MLB debut actually came in 1990 also have valuable cards from that season. These include Chuck Knoblauch from Bowman, Larry Walker from Score, and Jim Abbott from Score. As the 25th overall pick in the 1989 amateur draft by the Twins, Knoblauch made his MLB debut on September 5th, 1990 as a September call-up. In his 42 games that season, he hit .250. Knoblauch went on to become the 1991 AL Rookie of the Year, making his 1990 Bowman a sought-after rookie. The lefty Abbott debuted on September 2nd, 1990 with the California Angels, pitching 6 innings of 3-hit ball against the Kansas City Royals. Despite being born without a right hand, Abbott enjoyed a respectable 9-year MLB career, including a no-hitter in 1993. His distinctive 1990 Score is popular among collectors. And Larry Walker, as noted earlier, first appeared in 1990 with the Expos, going on to have a Hall of Fame caliber career.

Two utility players whose 1990 rookies hold continued value include Chuck Carr of Donruss and Pokey Reese of Score. Though neither had huge careers statistically, they made their mark in different ways. Chuck Carr debuted with the Astros in 1990, playing every position except pitcher and catcher over a decade-long career. His defensive versatility gained him notoriety and makes his Donruss rookie desirable. As for Pokey Reese, his 1990 Score shows him as a 23rd round draft pick by the Reds out of high school in Woodville, Mississippi. Reese became one of the game’s premier defensive shortstops, winning 3 Gold Gloves from 1996-1999 with the Reds and Red Sox. Despite hitting just .245 for his career, Reese’s slick fielding makes his rookie a solid pickup, especially in higher grades. The magnetic personalities of these two players gives their 1990s cards collector interest beyond stats.

The class of 1990 rookie cards is headlined by future Hall of Famers like Frank Thomas and Larry Walker but also contains many other stars, contributors, and distinctive players who made their MLB debuts that year. High quality examples from this era of the hobby will always be in demand due to the talented players they feature and nostalgia many collectors feel for the early 90s baseball card boom. While mass-produced brands saw their values sink during the junk wax era, the right rookies from sets like Bowman, Donruss, Score and Fleer have maintained strong secondary market prices through the decades.

BASEBALL CARDS ROOKIE PRICE

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The price of a baseball card, especially rookie cards, can vary greatly depending on several factors. While it may seem like an obscure hobby to some, the baseball card collecting market is a multi-billion dollar industry driven by card values that fluctuate based on player performance, card condition, and supply and demand dynamics.

For collectors looking to understand what drives the price of rookie cards for star players, it’s important to examine the key attributes that appraisers and buyers consider when determining a card’s worth. Some of the top factors influencing a rookie baseball card’s price include:

Player Performance – How well the player performs in their career has an enormous impact on their rookie card values. If a player becomes a superstar or Hall of Famer, their rookie cards will be in very high demand from collectors seeking to own a piece of baseball history. For example, rookie cards for legends like Mickey Mantle, Honus Wagner, or Mike Trout routinely sell for six figures or more due to their legendary careers. Conversely, if a player is a bust or does not live up to expectations, the value of their rookie card will remain low.

Card Condition – Just like the condition of any collectible item affects its price, the condition or grade of a baseball card plays a major role. Near Mint or Mint condition cards from top players will demand exponentially more than heavily played or damaged cards. Getting a card professionally graded by authentication companies like PSA or BGS provides a standard condition assessment that buyers can rely on. Higher numerical grades like PSA 10 or BGS Black Label indicate a flawless card and justify premium prices.

Print Run – The smaller the original print run of a card, the scarcer it becomes over time. Especially for older cards from the 1950s-1980s, print runs were much lower than modern issues. Flagship rookie cards like the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle or 1957 Topps Hank Aaron can fetch six figures since so few survived in high grade condition given the limited original distribution. Conversely, modern cards have huge print runs in the millions, so raw copies are less valuable unless the player becomes an all-time great.

Authenticity – In the lucrative world of vintage sports cards, counterfeiting has become a problem that collectors must be wary of. Getting a vintage card authenticated and graded is essential to assure a buyer they are purchasing an actual original example and not a forgery. Authentication greatly increases value and is mandatory for high dollar vintage transactions to provide buyer confidence.

Prominence of Card Design – Iconic card designs featuring a player’s true rookie season tend to be the most valuable and recognizable. For example, the iconic 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle is far more valuable than his 1951 Bowman card since Topps 1952 is universally accepted as his true “rookie” design despite appearing on a card a year prior. Other standout rookie card designs include 1957 Topps Hank Aaron, 1968 Topps Nolan Ryan, and 1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr.

Scarcities and Variations – Within individual card designs, certain scarce parallel prints, serial number variations, autograph versions or error cards can be exponentially rarer and more valuable than the standard base card. For example, the ultra-rare 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner in a PSA NM-MT 8 grade sold for $3.12 million in 2016 due to its legendary status. Other examples include rare autograph or serial number rookie patch cards that are confined to short print runs.

Market Demand – At any given time, the collective demand from enthusiasts actively collecting a player’s cards can influence prices. If a large number of collectors are pursuing a player’s rookie cards, competition for scarce high-grade examples can drive values up quickly. When demand wanes for a particular player, prices tend to stabilize or even decline until renewed interest emerges years later. Market demand forces are a major factor behind short-term pricing fluctuations.

While raw rookie cards hold value as collectibles, getting high-grade vintage and hobby cards professionally authenticated and graded provides a reliable condition assessment that establishes market value based on the factors above. With proper research, collectors can understand what attributes make one player’s rookie card significantly more valuable than another’s based on career performance, scarcity levels, condition, and other qualitative traits highly regarded within the competitive baseball memorabilia marketplace.

BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY 2020 ROOKIE

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Baseball cards have been a popular collectible for decades, with some vintage cards from the 1950s and 1960s selling for millions of dollars in recent years. There are also plenty of modern baseball cards from the 1990s, 2000s and 2010s that can hold significant value, especially rookie cards for star players.

Rookie cards, which feature a player’s first appearance in a trading card set during their rookie season, are often the most coveted and financially valuable cards in a player’s collection. This is because they represent capturing a player at the very beginning of their career, before they have established themselves as a star in Major League Baseball. If that rookie goes on to have a Hall of Fame caliber career, their rookie card often appreciates tremendously in value over the long run.

With that in mind, here is a look at some top baseball rookie cards from the past 20 years that are worth money today and could become even more valuable investments in the future:

Mike Trout 2009 Bowman Chrome Draft RC BGS 9.5 – $96,000
Mike Trout is widely considered the best player in baseball today. His 2009 Bowman Chrome Draft rookie card, graded mint condition BGS 9.5, recently sold for a staggering $96,000, showing just how coveted and valuable Trout rookies have become. Even lower graded Trout 2009 Bowman Chrome rookies in the $10,000 range are still excellent long term investments.

Bryce Harper 2012 Bowman Chrome Superfractor RC PSA 10 – $50,000
At just 27 years old, Bryce Harper has already established himself as a perennial All-Star and 2015 NL MVP. His ultra-rare 2012 Bowman Chrome Superfractor rookie card, graded mint PSA 10, set a new record by selling for over $50,000. Other Harper 2012 Bowman Chrome rookies in PSA 10 can fetch $10,000+.

Manny Machado 2013 Bowman Chrome RC Auto BGS 9.5 – $22,000
Manny Machado has been an All-Star four times in his young career so far with the Orioles and Dodgers. His highly coveted 2013 Bowman Chrome rookie card autograph, in pristine BGS 9.5 condition, sold for an impressive $22,000. Even non-autographed Machado 2013 Bowman Chrome rookies in gem mint condition sell for $1,000+.

Fernando Tatis Jr. 2018 Bowman Chrome RC PSA 10 – $15,000
Still just 21 years old, Fernando Tatis Jr. had a breakout 2019 season with the Padres that announced his arrival as a budding superstar. As a result, his ultra-rare 2018 Bowman Chrome rookie card, graded perfect gem mint PSA 10, skyrocketed in value to $15,000 in just over a year. Tatis rookies still graded PSA 9 can sell for $2,000-3,000.

Ronald Acuña Jr. 2018 Bowman Chrome RC Auto PSA 10 – $10,000
Ronald Acuña Jr. took the MLB by storm in 2018 as a 20-year-old rookie with the Braves, finishing second in the NL Rookie of the Year voting. His autographed 2018 Bowman Chrome rookie card in pristine PSA 10 condition recently sold for $10,000, showing how highly-regarded Acuña’s long-term potential is. Even non-autographed Acuña 2018 Bowman Chrome rookies in PSA 10 grade sell for $3,000-5,000.

Pete Alonso 2018 Bowman Chrome RC Auto BGS 9.5 – $8,000
Pete Alonso broke out in a huge way for the Mets in 2019, smashing a rookie record 53 home runs to win NL Rookie of the Year honors. As a result, his 2018 Bowman Chrome rookie card autograph, graded flawless BGS 9.5, skyrocketed to $8,000 in value in just one year. Even non-autographed Alonso 2018 Bowman Chrome rookies in PSA 9 grade now sell for $500-1,000.

Juan Soto 2018 Bowman Chrome RC Auto PSA 10 – $7,500
At just 21 years old, Juan Soto has already established himself as one of the best young hitters in baseball with the Nationals. His autographed 2018 Bowman Chrome rookie card in pristine PSA 10 condition brought $7,500. Non-autographed Soto 2018 Bowman Chrome rookies in PSA 9 still sell for $1,500-2,000 as well.

Cody Bellinger 2016 Bowman Chrome RC Auto PSA 10 – $6,000
2019 NL MVP Cody Bellinger saw his 2016 rookie card values spike big time. His autographed 2016 Bowman Chrome rookie in gem mint PSA 10 condition hit $6,000. Even non-autographed Bellinger 2016 Bowman Chrome rookies in PSA 9 grade now sell for $1,000.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. 2018 Bowman Chrome RC Auto PSA 10 – $5,000
Though he struggled at times in his 2019 MLB debut, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is still considered a true blue chip prospect for the Blue Jays. As a result, his pristine autographed 2018 Bowman Chrome rookie card in PSA 10 condition still brought an impressive $5,000 despite his rookie season struggles. Vladdy Jr. rookies remain solid long term investments.

While the above players represent the true cream of the crop in terms of modern baseball rookie cards worth significant money today, there are still plenty of other young stars whose rookie cards hold value in the $500-2,000 range as well if they are higher graded and more scarce versions. Players like Aaron Judge, Gleyber Torres, Eloy Jimenez, Lucas Giolito and others all have rookies worth owning for future potential appreciation.

The best modern baseball cards to target for holding long term as investments are higher graded rookie cards (PSA 9 or 10, BGS 9.5) from flagship Bowman and Topps Chrome sets issued within the last 5-10 years. Look for stars, short prints, autographs and serially numbered parallels to maximize scarcity and potential future value. With patience, even modestly priced modern rookies from today’s top prospects could pay off handsomely down the road.

ROOKIE AMAZON BASEBALL CARDS

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Rookie baseball cards are among the most sought after and valuable cards in the hobby. Landing your hands on the rookie card of a future Hall of Famer is the dream of any serious collector. While legendary rookie cards of Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, and other all-time greats from the early days of the sport can fetch millions of dollars at auction today, there are still plenty of exciting modern rookie cards being produced that have immense long-term potential.

One of the largest online retail platforms for finding and acquiring rookie baseball cards today is Amazon. With its vast third-party marketplace and huge customer base, Amazon has essentially become a one-stop shop for anyone looking to build or improve their baseball card collection. Here are some of the top modern rookie cards frequently listed and sold on Amazon that could become hugely valuable long-term investments if the players go on to stellar careers.

Shohei Ohtani, 2021 Topps Chrome Refractor – At just 27 years old, Shohei Ohtani has already achieved superstar status and is one of the most unique and dynamic players in the game today as a formidable hitter and pitcher. His 2021 Topps Chrome refractors are highly sought after by collectors. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples recently sold for over $1000 on Amazon. If Ohtani can stay healthy and dominate for many more years, this card may attain Babe Ruth rookie level prices down the road.

Juan Soto, 2018 Bowman Chrome Refractor – Still just 24, Juan Soto has established himself as one of MLB’s best hitters and is a surefire future Hall of Famer if he keeps up his fantastic start. His scarce 2018 Bowman Chrome rookie refractor parallel commands big money today on Amazon, with PSA 10 examples bringing in several thousand dollars. Soto is already a national sports icon and this card will undoubtedly be a blue chip long term investment.

Ronald Acuña Jr., 2018 Bowman Chrome Refractor – Like Soto, Ronald Acuña burst onto the scene as one of baseball’s brightest young stars and hasn’t slowed down since. The 2018 ToppsChrome rookie refractor is plentifully listed on Amazon but still expensive, with gem mint 10s priced around $1000-1200. Acuña has superstar upside and health permitting could smash home run records, making this one of the top modern investments around.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr., 2018 Bowman Chrome Refractor – Though injuries hampered his start, Vlad Jr. established himself as an elite hitter in 2021 and looks like a future MVP candidate. His small hands RC from 2018 Bowman Chrome is considered the true flagship RC and examples can be found on Amazon for $800-1000 graded a PSA 10. With his legendary bloodlines and prodigious bat, this card has monster potential long term.

Fernando Tatis Jr., 2019 Topps Chrome Refractor – At just 23, Tatis Jr. has already cemented himself as a fan favorite and amongst the faces of the MLB. His 2019 Topps Chrome RC still holds value, with a PSA 10 often commanding $700-800 on Amazon. Health is a slight concern but if Tatis stays on the field his cards will retain their elite status in the years ahead.

Wander Franco, 2021 Topps Chrome Refractor RC – Franco took the baseball world by storm in 2021 at age 20 as arguably the best pure hitter in the minor leagues. High-grade versions of his flagship Topps Chrome refractor RC from the set can be found on Amazon for $300-400 already. Franco seems a lock for huge offensive production and annual MVP consideration for over a decade. This first-year card will appreciate immensely.

While far riskier bets than established veteran stars, the rookie cards above offer unprecedented long-term appreciation potential if purchased raw and graded highly or kept protectively. With service time still ahead, career-ending injuries remain a possibility, but baseball history shows us that transcendent talents sustain incredible value through generations of collectors. For those willing to lock funds away patiently, selective modern young superstar RCs found on Amazon could yield six or even seven-figure returns decades down the line.

Collectors take note – some of the game’s future greatest players may be revealing themselves before our eyes right now. Getting in early on their rookie cards, even paying a premium, could prove one of the smartest long-term sports investments of a lifetime. Sites like Amazon give fans accessibility to both chase breakthrough rookies as they emerge and build foundations for collections set to gain immense worth in the decades to come. The reward of owning cards that support the legacy of baseball’s next icons far outweighs any short-term risks.

1988 TOPPS ROOKIE BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1988 Topps rookie baseball card set showcased many young players who would go on to have impressive Major League careers. This was an exciting time for the hobby as collectors nationwide began seeking out and acquiring these rookie cards, hoping to catch a star player at the beginning of their career path. Several rookies from the 1988 set went on to achieve Hall of Fame status, making these cards hugely valuable investments decades later.

One of the top rookies featured was Ken Griffey Jr., who made his MLB debut with the Seattle Mariners in 1989 at just 19 years old. Widely considered one of the most talented five-tool players of all time, Griffey proved to be worth the hype from the beginning. He smashed 10 home runs in his first month as a big leaguer and was named American League Rookie of the Year in 1989. Griffey went on to have a spectacular 22-year career, smash 630 home runs, and be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2016 – making his 1988 Topps rookie card one of the most coveted and valuable in the set.

Another incredible rookie featured was Barry Larkin, who had a breakthrough season as the Cincinnati Reds’ shortstop in 1986 but was still considered a rookie by Topps in 1988 as he had not met the innings/at-bats threshold yet. Larkin went on to win the National League Rookie of the Year award in 1986 and dazzled MLB for 19 seasons, winning the 1995 NL MVP award. He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2012, cementing his 1988 rookie card as a true gem for collectors. Remarkably, Griffey Jr. and Larkin were both inducted into Cooperstown in the same season – showing just how talented that 1988 rookie class truly was.

Other Hall of Famers included in the set were Tom Glavine and Greg Maddux, arguably two of the best starting pitchers of their generation. Glavine debuted with the Atlanta Braves in 1987 and went on to win the NL Cy Young award in 1991 and 1998, while also claiming two World Series rings. Maddux, who started his career with the Chicago Cubs in 1986, revolutionized pitching as one of the greatest control artists ever. He amazingly won four straight NL Cy Youngs from 1992-95 and was inducted into the Hall of Fame alongside Glavine in 2014.

Not to be outdone, the 1988 Topps set also included rookie cards for four-time All-Star catcher Terry Pendleton as well as fan favorites like Dwight Smith, Bob Tewksbury, Wally Joyner, and Tim Wallach among many others. While those players didn’t reach the same heights as Griffey, Larkin, Glavine or Maddux – their rookie cards are still highly collectible for fans of those 1980s teams. The set also showcased future managers like Buck Showalter and Dusty Baker in their playing days.

The design elements on the 1988 Topps baseball cards also make them a visually appealing set for collectors. The cards featured a white border with a vibrant team color accenting one side. Player photos popped against the solid color backgrounds. Statistics, career highlights, and fun facts were listed on the back of each card. The cards had a classic, clean look that fits in well with sets from that late 1980s / early 90s “Junk Wax” era known for high production numbers.

In recent years, as Griffey Jr., Larkin, Glavine and Maddux gained entry into the Hall of Fame – interest and prices for their 1988 Topps rookie cards have skyrocketed. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples of Griffey’s rookie now routinely sell for over $10,000. The rise of online auctions has made it possible for collectors worldwide to discover these icons’ early cardboard and chase uncirculated copies in respected third-party slabs. For enthusiasts who missed out on acquiring the cards initially during the release, buying high-grade versions is one of the only ways to add certified pieces from this epic rookie class to their collections decades later.

The 1988 Topps baseball card set was a watershed year that featured future Hall of Famers and sparked new collecting passions. Not only did it provide early looks at MLB legends like Griffey Jr. and Larkin – the set endures as one of the most historically significant in the hobby due to the incredible careers and accomplishments of that talented rookie class. While production numbers remain high, the condition sensitive nature of the cards combined with the now proven greatness of several featured players has made high-grade 1988 Topps rookies some of the most sought after investments in the sports collecting world.

1968 ROOKIE BASEBALL CARDS

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The rookie baseball cards from the 1968 season introduced some of the biggest names the sport has ever seen. Players like Nolan Ryan, Reggie Jackson, and Carlton Fisk debuted in 1968 and went on to stellar careers in Major League Baseball. Their rookie cards from that season are some of the most iconic and valuable baseball cards ever printed.

Released by Topps, 1968 was the 57th year the company produced baseball cards as the exclusive maker of hockey and football cards as well. For baseball, more and more young stars were emerging each season in the late 1960s. Names like Ryan, Jackson, Fisk, and others would appear on 1968 Topps rookie cards waiting to burst onto the scene.

Nolan Ryan’s rookie card is likely the most well known and valuable from the 1968 set. As the #496 card in the series, it features Ryan as a member of the New York Mets wearing the team’s classic blue and orange colors. At the time, no one could have predicted that Ryan would go on to strikeout over 5,000 batters, throw seven no-hitters, and become arguably the greatest pitcher in MLB history. His rookie card has sold for over $100,000 in mint condition.

Another future Hall of Famer and one of baseball’s icons, Reggie Jackson had his rookie season in 1968 as well. As a member of the Oakland Athletics, Jackson’s #526 Topps card introduced Baseball fans to “Mr. October.” It features a headshot of the 21-year old slugger in the green and gold A’s uniform. Jackson would take his stellar power hitting to new heights with the Athletics and later the New York Yankees, winning five World Series titles and being named World Series MVP three times. High grade 1968 Topps Reggie Jackson rookie cards have sold for over $50,000.

Catcher Carlton Fisk debuted with the Boston Red Sox organization in 1968 and his #495 Topps rookie card marked the beginning of what became a Hall of Fame career. Known best for his dramatic home run in the 1975 World Series, Fisk played his entire career in the Boston and Chicago White Sox uniforms he wore on his inaugural baseball card. As one of the greatest catchers of all-time and a true icon of the Red Sox franchise, PSA 10 graded examples of Fisk’s 1968 Topps rookie have exceeded $10,000 at auction.

Some other notable rookies featured in the 1968 Topps set included Don Sutton with the Los Angeles Dodgers on card #592. “Sutton would win 324 career games and helped the Dodgers win several pennants and World Series titles during his illustrious career. His rookie is valued around $3,000 today. Al Kaline’s final rookie card ran in 1968 as the Detroit Tigers great completed his career. On card #479, Kaline looked back on a Hall of Fame run with the Tigers.

Two future 500 home run club legends had their rookie cards in the set as well. For the Philadelphia Phillies, #436 Mike Schmidt’s rookie card introduced a player who would become arguably the greatest third baseman ever. Schmidt hit 548 career home runs and won three NL MVP awards. Cincinnati Reds outfielder Dave Parker debuted on card #289. “The Cobra” would go on to hit 339 homers in his career playing for the Reds, Pirates, and others. Both Schmidt and Parker rookie cards can be acquired for under $1,000 still.

While not all rookies featured in the 1968 Topps set went on to the same career heights of the aforementioned players, they all provided a first look at the next generation of baseball stars. Sets from the late 1960s are considered some of the most iconic in the history of the hobby due to all the talent they introduced. The rookie cards of Ryan, Jackson, Fisk, Sutton, and others have become extremely valuable over 50-plus years since their release as representations of the early years of some of baseball’s all-time greatest players. Today, maintaining high grades of these inaugural cards remains important to collectors pursuing pieces of baseball history from the 1968 season.

The 1968 Topps baseball card set holds a very special place in the hobby. It introduced legends like Nolan Ryan, Reggie Jackson, and Carlton Fisk among others. While impossible to predict true greatness from a rookie card alone, these players more than lived up to the hype. Their rookie cards remain some of the most coveted and financially valuable in the entire collecting world. For any fan or collector of the sport, possessing a nicely centered and cornered example of a 1968 rookie like Ryan or Jackson brings you as close as possible to owning a piece of the origins of some the MLB’s all-time best.

TRENDING BASEBALL ROOKIE CARDS

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Baseball cards have long been a favorite collectible for both young and old fans. Nothing gets enthusiasts more excited than finding a valuable rookie card, especially for current stars just beginning their Major League careers. In today’s market, certain rookie cards are highly sought after and command top dollar amounts from devoted collectors. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the baseball rookie cards currently trending in popularity and price.

Sandy Alcantara, Miami Marlins (2018 Topps Chrome)- As one of the best young pitching talents in baseball, Alcantara has quickly emerged as an ace for the Marlins. His electric right arm has led Topps Chrome rookies to new heights, with PSA 10 gem mint examples now selling in the $400-500 range. At just 26 years old, Alcantara should have many successful seasons ahead of him pitching in the National League East. As he becomes an All-Star and continues building his career stats, his rookie card values can only go up from here.

Bobby Witt Jr., Kansas City Royals (2022 Topps)- Widely considered the top prospect in baseball before making his MLB debut this year, Witt lived up to the hype by winning AL Rookie of the Year honors. He immediately became a fan favorite in Kansas City with his stellar defense at shortstop and ability to consistently drive the ball into the gaps. Witt’s rookie cards in the 2022 Topps Series 1 and Topps Chrome sets took the hobby by storm. Near-perfect PSA 10 copies are reaching over $1,000 on the secondary market as collectors flock to get in early on his future Hall of Fame track.

Julio Rodriguez, Seattle Mariners (2022 Topps)- “J-Rod” exploded onto the scene for the up-and-coming Mariners and gave their long-suffering fans plenty to cheer about. In addition to snagging a Silver Slugger award as an outfielder, Rodriguez spent time on the cover of MLB The Show ’23. The excitement surrounding his stellar rookie campaign has increased demand for his shiny blue refractors out of Topps Chrome. PSA 10 examples eclipsed $800 by season’s end with more upside to gain.

Spencer Strider, Atlanta Braves (2022 Topps Chrome)- His electrifying 100 mph fastball made Strider one of the most dominant rookie pitchers in baseball down the stretch. Strider racked up 202 strikeouts for the defending champs while cementing his place in their rotation for years to come. In the red-hot Atlanta sports card market, his prized Topps Chrome rookie refractor parallel /75 pulled in five figures at auction not long after his call-up date. Additional lower serial numbered parallels could push Strider’s cards even higher.

Riley Greene, Detroit Tigers (2022 Topps)- As the crown jewel of the Tigers’ rebuilding effort, Greene displayed impressive contact skills and plate discipline while splitting time between AAA and the big leagues in 2022. The five-tool outfielder is expected to be Detroit’s everyday centerfielder in 2023 and for a long time after. His Topps Chrome rookie blues and greens have steadily risen past the $200 plateau with no signs of slowing. Greene could see Strider-like spikes if he wins ROY or puts up a monster statistical season.

Adley Rutschman, Baltimore Orioles (2022 Topps’- Widely viewed as the best all-around catcher in baseball presently and potentially of this generation, Rutschman was everything advertised in his rookie year while helping lift Baltimore back to respectability. The switch-hitting slugger has established himself as a cornerstone player for the rebuilding O’s. As one of the premier prospects to debut in 2022, Rutschman’s Topps flagship and Topps Chrome rookies command over $100 on average. That number figures to grow exponentially as he gains more accolades and postseason appearances.

Oneil Cruz, Pittsburgh Pirates (2022 Topps Chrome)- At 6-foot-7 with rocket arm strength from shortstop, Cruz is a physical specimen generating massive buzz around the league. While playing briefly for the Pirates in 2022, he tantalized fans with mammoth home runs and 100+ mph throws across the diamond from deep in the hole. As Pittsburgh’s designated future star, collectors have taken notice by boosting Cruz’s Topps Chrome wares above $150 per copy in anticipation of sustained success. His monstrous tools could yield All-Star caliber results and exponentially greater card values soon.

Jose Miranda, Minnesota Twins (2022 Topps Chrome)- A breakout campaign earned Miranda AL Rookie of the Year consideration in 2022 as one of baseball’s top young hitters. With 40+ extra-base hits including 19 homers for the Twins, Miranda seems poised to own their first base job for many seasons. It’s still rare to find his prized Topps Chrome refractor under $150 in the current hot Minnesota and Twins collecting climate. Miranda’s established bat could propel his cardboard even higher as the Twins aim for playoff contention.

So in summation, these eight sluggers and hurlers in their early MLB careers are among the most in-demand prospects on the baseball card market today. With multiple tools, statistical track records, or youthful potential in their favor, their flagship and Topps Chrome rookie cards represent exciting speculation opportunities for savvy investors. As production runs grow shorter each year while demand steadily rises, it’s never been more crucial to secure the top-graded specimens of tomorrow’s potential Hall of Famers before they price totally out of reach.

HOTTEST BASEBALL ROOKIE CARDS 2022

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The MLB season always brings excitement for new players making their debut. Rookie cards for star players can become extremely valuable collectors items. Here’s a look at some of the top rookie cards on the market in 2022 for baseball’s newest stars:

Wander Franco – Tampa Bay Rays – 2020 Bowman Chrome Purple Refractor Auto 1/1: At just 21 years old, Franco had a monster rookie season in 2021 that showed why he is considered a true five-tool superstar. His rare 2020 Chrome Purple Refractor auto /1 is the crown jewel of his rookie cards and already one of the most valuable modern baseball cards ever printed. Last year, a PSA 10 Gem Mint example sold for a record $400,000, showing just how coveted these ultra-rare Franco patches are. Even raw non-auto versions have fetched over $20,000. All of Franco’s Bowman Chrome color refractors are highly desired by collectors.

Bobby Witt Jr. – Kansas City Royals – 2021 Topps Chrome Rainbow Foil Auto 1/1: As the #2 overall pick in 2019, Witt arrived in the bigs with huge expectations in 2022 after dominating the minors. His phenomenal speed, power, and glove already have scouts comparing him to a young Alex Rodriguez. Naturally, his 1/1 Topps Chrome Rainbow Foil Auto is considered the premier rookie in what is shaping up to be a massive collection for Witt. A PSA 10 could shatter Franco’s record price tag if Witt keeps developing into a perennial all-star.

Juan Soto – Washington Nationals – 2018 Bowman Chrome Prospects Auto Refractor: At just 23 years old, Soto has already accomplished so much – 2 All Star appearances, a World Series title, Silver Slugger award, and now a huge $440 million extension. But collectors still drool over his early prospect autos from before he was a superstar, like his coveted 2018 Bowman Chrome Auto Refractor serial numbered to just /150 copies. Graded PSA 10 examples have sold for north of $15,000, showing the investment potential of recognizing stars early in their development.

Riley Greene – Detroit Tigers – 2021 Topps Chrome Auto Rainbow Foil /99: As the #5 overall pick in 2019, Greene developed quickly through the minors and got his first taste of the bigs in 2022 at just 21 years old while showing off prodigious power and hitting ability. His elite 2021 Topps Chrome Rainbow Foil Auto numbered to just 99 copies is the clear centerpiece of any Greene PC and a prized possession for any collector of young MLB stars. A PSA 10 could challenge $10,000 given Greene’s breakout potential.

Julio Rodriguez – Seattle Mariners – 2021 Bowman Chrome Auto Green Refractor /99: J-Rod arrived with a bang in Seattle, showcasing rare 5-tool talent and immediately establishing himself as a fan favorite and building block for the future. While all of his 2021 Bowman Chrome prospect cards are hot, the Green Refractor Auto /99 stands above the rest as the true flagship. Rodriguez turned in an impressive rookie campaign to justify why this card and others in his collection could appreciate significantly with sustained MLB success.

Adley Rutschman – Baltimore Orioles – 2019 Bowman Chrome Auto: As the #1 overall pick in 2019 and top catching prospect, Rutschman finally made his much-anticipated MLB debut in 2022. While he had some ups and downs as expected, his offensive skills and leadership drew immediate praise. With stardom predicted, his elegant 2019 Bowman Chrome Auto remains a prized long-term investment for collectors gambling on his All-Star potential. A PSA 10 could net six figures down the road.

Bobby Miller – Los Angeles Dodgers – 2021 Bowman Chrome Auto Rainbow Foil /99: The Dodgers pitching factory struck gold with Miller, selected in the 3rd round of the 2020 draft. He cruised through the minors and had one of the biggest velocity jumps of any prospect. At just 23 years old with a high 90s fastball and sharp breaking stuff, Miller is poised to dominate MLB batters for years as a frontline starter. His flashy Rainbow Foil Auto is a fan favorite collectors chase.

Spencer Strider – Atlanta Braves – 2021 Bowman Chrome Auto: Strider exploded onto the scene for the defending champs, using his electrifying 100+ mph heat to dominate batters from the bullpen as a rookie. Scouts were impressed enough by his dominance that he may get a chance to start, which could take his potential to an even higher level. For now, his affordable rookie cards like the basic Bowman Chrome Auto hold intrigue since Strider may have just scratched the surface of his stardom.

Oneil Cruz – Pittsburgh Pirates – 2019 Bowman Chrome Auto RC: At a massive 6’7, Cruz is a true physical marvel who also shows budding power and speed. After tearing up the minors, Cruz got his first extended MLB look in 2022 while still just 23 years old. With evident star power and highlight-reel worthy plays, Cruz captured fans’ attention. His early rookie cards remain a prudent long term investment, as the “Oneil Cruz Experience” may just be getting started in Pittsburgh.

While values can vary greatly, these 10 young stars and their select rookie cards represent some of the most coveted baseball card investments on the market heading into 2023. Sustained success and milestones will only serve to further increase demand and raise prices for these elite talents’ formative cardboard over the long run. It’s always exciting to watch future Hall of Famers in their earliest career stages through the lens of their rookie cards.

ROOKIE BASEBALL CARDS THAT ARE WORTH MONEY

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Baseball cards have been a popular collecting hobby for decades. While some common cards don’t hold much value, certain rookie cards can be quite valuable – especially older cards from the early 20th century. Rookie cards are particularly sought after since they commemorate a player’s first appearance in the major leagues. Here are some examples of rookie baseball cards that are worth money today if in good condition:

Honus Wagner (1909 T206) – Widely considered the most valuable baseball card ever printed, the T206 Honus Wagner is legendary in the hobby. Produced by American Tobacco Company between 1909-1911, it’s estimated fewer than 60 examples exist today in authentic and gradeable condition. In 2021, a PSA EX-MT 5 sold for a record $6.6 million, showing the card still appreciates strongly. Other high grades have sold for well over $1 million.

Babe Ruth (1914 Baltimore News) – One of the earliest known rookie cards of the legendary Bambino. Only about 50 are known to exist in all conditions. In January 2022, a PSA 3.5 graded example sold for $996,000, showing solid ongoing value even in lower grades for this historic piece of memorabilia. A high grade example could potentially surpass $1 million.

Joe DiMaggio (1936 R306) – Produced during DiMaggio’s rookie season of 1936 which he helped the New York Yankees win the World Series. Around 80 are believed extant in all conditions. A PSA 5 recently sold for $405,000 in 2022, while a PSA 8 could bring over $750,000. Represents one of the most iconic Yankee players.

Mickey Mantle (1951 Bowman) – Heralded as one of the most aesthetically pleasing and instantly recognizable vintage baseball cards. Around 300 PSA graded examples exist, with a PSA 8 selling for over $432,000 in early 2022. High grade PSA 9s have topped $2 million before. Captures Mantle at the start of his Hall of Fame career.

Sandy Koufax (1955 Bowman) – Pictures Koufax during his rookie season where he had a breakout year and won Rookie of the Year award. Only around 50-100 are believed to exist in all grades. A high quality PSA 8 recently brought $261,600 at auction. Among the scarcest of all vintage rookie baseball cards.

Willie Mays (1951 Bowman) – Iconic photo of Mays during his early Giants career. Around 300 PSA graded examples are known. A PSA 9 example sold for nearly $607,000 in March 2022, showing strong ongoing demand for one of the sport’s all-time great players.

Nolan Ryan (1966 Topps) – Features Ryan during his rookie season with the New York Mets. Around 380 PSA graded versions are accounted for. A high quality PSA 8 copy sold for $117,000 in early 2022. Known as one of the hardest throwers in baseball history, his cards retain solid interest.

Mike Piazza (1990 Excalibur ProDebut) – One of the rarest and most valuable modern era rookie cards. Only about a dozen are known in PSA 10 mint condition. One sold for over $93,000 in 2022. Captures Piazza before his breakout seasons with the Dodgers and Mets elevated him to Hall of Fame status. Limited population makes pristine examples highly sought.

Butch Huskey (1980 Topps Traded) – Considered one of the scarcest traded/update issue cards ever produced. Only 5 thought to exist in PSA 10 condition. Sold for $37,200 in early 2022 despite Huskey having a short, uneventful MLB career. Extensive scarceness drives the value.

Andrew Benintendi (2015 Bowman Chrome) – One of the most collectible modern rookies from the highly desirable Bowman Chrome set. Benintendi was a consensus top prospect and rookie of the year candidate. PSA 10 copies trade in the $3,000-$5,000 range currently which is high for a recent player card.

Robinson Cano (2001 Bowman Chrome) – Marquee rookie from the Bowman Chrome set featuring Cano in uniform as a Seattle Mariners prospect. PSA 10s regularly change hands for $2,000-$3,500 due to Cano’s Hall of Fame caliber career and being early 2000s Bowman Chrome issue.

Those represent some top examples of baseball rookie cards that can be worth substantial money today, especially when graded and preserved in high quality condition. As is typical with collectibles, the oldest cards from the earliest production years tend to hold and appreciate the most value long term. But newer rookies from sought after sets like Bowman Chrome also retain significance for current stars. With more than a century of the hobby’s history to draw from, rare vintage rookie cards of all-time great players continue being prized trophies for well-heeled collectors. Just taking proper care to protect these fragile pieces of sports history can yield potentially huge future rewards.

BEST ROOKIE BASEBALL CARDS 2021

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The 2021 baseball season saw a number of highly touted prospects make their MLB debuts and begin their careers in Major League Baseball. Several of these rookies had immediate impacts on their teams and generated a lot of excitement among fans and collectors. As a result, their rookie cards from 2021 are some of the most sought after on the baseball card market currently. Let’s take a look at some of the top rookie cards from last season that could hold significant long term value.

Perhaps the most hyped rookie of 2021 was Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco. Considered a true five-tool talent and potential superstar, Franco lived up to the billing in his debut season. In 70 games, he hit .288 with 7 home runs and 39 RBI. More impressively, he showed incredible plate discipline with a .347 on-base percentage. Franco is considered a cornerstone player for the Rays franchise going forward. Not surprisingly, his 2021 Topps Chrome Refractor rookie card has been one of the most expensive on the market. PSA 10 Gem Mint examples have sold for over $1000, a testament to how highly regarded Franco is as a player. His other 2021 Topps base rookie cards also command three figure prices in high grades. Franco looks poised for stardom, making his rookie cards a blue chip investment.

Another highly touted rookie shortstop was Seattle Mariners prospect Julio Rodriguez. Though he only played in 69 games, Rodriguez flashed five-tool potential by hitting .284 with 14 home runs and 21 stolen bases. He provided a much needed spark to the rebuilding Mariners. Rodriguez’s 2021 Topps Chrome Blue Refractor rookie card has been one of the breakout cards of the year, with PSA 10s selling for $500-700. Even his base Topps rookie in a PSA 10 has sold for over $200, a huge return for a card from a standard release. Rodriguez may not have the superstar ceiling of Franco, but he looks to be a perennial All-Star caliber player and his rookie cards could appreciate significantly if he continues developing.

While Franco and Rodriguez garnered the most attention, there were other rookies who made strong first impressions in 2021 as well. Detroit Tigers outfielder Riley Greene had a cup of coffee late in the season but displayed promising skills by hitting .301 in 23 games. Greene is considered Detroit’s centerpiece and has drawn comparisons to Mike Trout for his combination of power and speed. His 2021 Topps Chrome Blue Refractor rookie has sold for around $150-200 in high grades, showing strong early demand. Cincinnati Reds second baseman Jonathan India had a terrific rookie campaign, winning the NL Rookie of the Year award by hitting .269 with 21 home runs and 69 RBI. India looks to be a cornerstone player for the Reds for years to come. His 2021 Topps Chrome Refractor rookie has traded hands for $75-100.

On the pitching side, Toronto Blue Jays starter Alek Manoah made a huge impact by going 9-2 with a 3.22 ERA and 147 strikeouts in 143 innings. Manoah looks like a true ace and workhorse at just 24 years old. His 2021 Topps Chrome Refractor rookie card has sold for $75-100 as well. Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Aaron Ashby only made 12 starts but flashed impressive stuff by striking out 96 batters in 67 innings. Ashby has the potential to be in Milwaukee’s rotation for a long time. His 2021 Topps Chrome Refractor rookie has sold in the $50 range. San Diego Padres reliever Taylor Rogers emerged as the team’s closer, notching 31 saves. While not a traditional rookie, Rogers’ first Padres uniform card from 2021 Topps Update has traded hands for $40-60 due to his breakout season.

Beyond the individual rookies, there were also sets that featured the top rookies of 2021 that have generated buzz. The 2021 Topps Chrome Update Blue Refractor set featured the blue parallel versions of stars like Franco, Rodriguez, India, Manoah and others. A complete set with all the key rookies has sold for over $1000. The 2021 Topps Finest set also contained highly desirable refractors and parallels of the top rookies. A complete rainbow foil set with one of each parallel sold for around $800. For investors looking to gain exposure to the top rookies in one purchase, high end sets provide that opportunity while also offering the chance of appreciation if any of the players break out further.

The 2021 rookie class featured several players like Franco, Rodriguez, and India who look poised for stardom based on their debut seasons. Their rookie cards, especially from premium products like Topps Chrome, have already gained significant value and look positioned to appreciate further over the long run. Additional rookies like Greene, Manoah and Ashby also made strong first impressions and their cards could rise substantially with breakout seasons in 2022 and beyond. While any investment in trading cards carries risk, the top rookies from 2021 seem to have especially high long term upside and remain some of the most compelling investments in the current baseball card market. Collectors would be wise to hold examples of the best 2021 rookies in anticipation of their careers unfolding.