The 2023 Bowman baseball release is one of the most highly anticipated rookie card releases each year. While it’s still early, scouts and prospect analysts have started to identify some of the top young prospects who are likely to have the most sought after rookie cards in the upcoming Bowman set. With rosters not even fully set for next season yet, there is still uncertainty. Here are some early predictions on some of the names to keep an eye on whose rookie cards could be big hits in 2023 Bowman.
Druw Jones (OF, Atlanta Braves) – As the second overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, Jones comes with huge expectations as the son of former star Andruw Jones. Scouts rave about his five-tool talents and say he has the potential to be a true five-tool player in the big leagues. He also has the bonus of being part of the loaded Atlanta system. His prospect status and pedigree make him an early favorite to have the hottest rookie card in 2023 Bowman.
Termarr Johnson (SS, Atlanta Braves) – Another piece of the great Atlanta system, Johnson has all the makings of a potential star. He showcased impressive all-around skills in his pro debut season and has the type of flashy tools that cause cards to rise. As a high 2019 draft pick, he also has experience against top competition. His rookie cards should be in high demand.
Max Muncy (SS, Los Angeles Dodgers) – As the third overall pick in the 2022 draft by the Dodgers, Muncy garnered lots of attention for his hitting abilities. He has a sweet lefty swing and great bat-to-ball skills that could translate well in pro ball. Playing in Los Angeles always brings attention as well. His cards may not reach Druw Jones heights, but should be a hot commodity.
Carson Tucker (3B, St. Louis Cardinals) – The brother of Pirates star Ke’Bryan Hayes, Tucker has skills of his own that made him a first round pick by St. Louis in 2022. He hits for average and power and should move quickly as a polished college hitter. St. Louis always develops young talent well too. He seems likely to jump on the prospect radar fast.
Jackson Holliday (SS, Baltimore Orioles) – As the number one overall pick in 2022, Holliday was already one of the most well-known prospects entering pro ball. He consistently dominated top competition and has the all-fields hitting ability to be a true middle of the order bat. Playing in Baltimore brings less hype than bigger markets, but his prospect status should make his rookie cards very sought after.
Brooks Lee (3B, Los Angeles Angels) – The 2021 first rounder had an excellent first full pro season that saw him shoot up prospect lists. He stands out for his polished all-around hitting skills at an up-the-middle defensive position. The Angels also have an exciting young core forming. His breakout 2022 only increased curiosity around his potential, meaning strong card demand.
Ethan Murray (OF, Tampa Bay Rays) – An athletic and toolsy athlete, Murray was one of the highest upside picks from the 2022 draft. He has plus raw power from the left side and great defensive instincts in the outfield. The Rays also have a proven farm system that develops talent exceptionally well. His upside alone could make him intriguing to collectors early on.
Marco Luciano (SS, San Francisco Giants) – While not truly a rookie after playing in 2021, Luciano remains one of the highest ceiling shortstop prospects in baseball. Injuries slowed his progress some in 2022, but when right he has true five-tool star potential. Playing in San Francisco with Buster Posey’s retirement opening opportunities also enhances his cards’ appeal.
Robert Hassell III (OF, San Diego Padres) – A favorite of many analysts coming out of the 2021 draft, Hassell had a strong pro debut season to live up to lofty hype so far. He makes consistent contact and his all-fields bat should play well in games. The left-handed bat in the Padres’ exciting young outfield core adds to his attractions for collectors too.
Jackson Jobe (RHP, Detroit Tigers) – As one of the top pitching prospects in the minors, Jobe’s stuff and command made him the third overall pick in 2021. His impressive minor league debut only increased expectations for his future as a frontline starter. Even with some risk inherent to pitchers, the upside is enticing for speculators looking for the next big arm to emerge.
Sam Bachman (RHP, Los Angeles Angels) – Pitching comes with more risk than hitters, but Bachman’s pure stuff and athletic ability gives him a high ceiling. Selected ninth overall in 2021, he showed three quality pitches in a brief pro debut that hinted at his potential. As the Angels look to build around young arms, he could emerge as their next great starter.
Of course, much can change over the next year before 2023 Bowman arrives. Injuries and adjustments to pro ball for these prospects and others could alter perceptions. Additional names may also emerge onto the scene over the season. For now, these look like some of the headlining rookies whose cards have the best shot at becoming coveted prizes for those who pull them fresh from packs in the upcoming release. With so much potential among recent draftees and the games’ top prospects, 2023 Bowman is certainly shaping up as a release to watch closely.
