The 2021 rookie class in Major League Baseball featured many highly touted prospects making their debuts and immediately contributing to their new clubs. While it’s still early, several rookies have stood out and seen their rookie cards gain significant value on the secondary market. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the top rookie cards from 2021 based on player performance and market demand.
Perhaps the most coveted rookie card from 2021 is Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco. Considered a true five-tool talent and top prospect in all of baseball, Franco wasted no time proving he was ready for the majors. In his debut on June 22nd, Franco got four hits, including a home run. He finished his rookie season hitting .288 with 7 home runs and 39 RBI in 70 games. Franco’s autographed Prizm Chrome Purple Refractor rookie card /99 has sold for over $3,000 and his base Prizm rookie for around $400-500 graded gem mint. Franco established himself as a true superstar and will continue to be one of the most valuable rookie cards in the hobby for years to come.
Another player who had a phenomenal debut season was Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez. While not ranked as highly as Franco in the minors, J-Rod quickly proved the doubters wrong by hitting .284 with 18 home runs and 50 RBI in 109 games. Among rookies, he led in runs scored with 75 and added 25 stolen bases. Rodriguez’s top cards like his Topps Chrome Blue Refractor auto /99 and Topps Chrome Silver Pack Fresh Refractor auto /70 have each sold for over $2,000 ungraded. For a player who started the year ranked outside most top-100 prospects lists, Rodriguez far exceeded expectations and looks poised for stardom to drive further card value gains.
Detroit Tigers outfielder Riley Greene got off to a slow start after a late season debut but finished strong with a .256 average in 52 games. What stood out most was his power with 4 home runs in September. Among Greene’s best rookies are his Topps Series 2 Chrome Refractor /2021 and Topps Fire Red Refractor /99, which have sold in the $300-500 range graded. At just 21 years old, Greene has untapped upside that could make him a perennial All-Star and $1000+ card down the road if he continues developing.
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Tony Gonsolin made a strong case for NL Rookie of the Year posting a 16-1 record and 2.14 ERA in 25 games and 122 innings. While not overpowering, Gonsolin showed strong command and poise on the mound during the Dodgers’ playoff run. His Topps Chrome Yellow Refractor auto /70 has sold for around $600 while common refractors and parallels grade around $100. As a solid mid-rotation starter on a deep Dodgers team, Gonsolin has the consistency to boost card values steadily with every start.
Another pitcher who stood out among rookies was Boston Red Sox left-hander Brayan Bello. Though he only made 10 starts, Bello posted a solid 1.76 ERA with solid strikeout numbers. At just 23 years old, Bello has the ceiling of a future ace if he can stay healthy and improve his command. His Best of Bowman Blue Refractor auto /50 has traded hands for around $350 while common mojos and refractors hold steady value near $50. Bello is one to watch as his prized young arm could explode in 2023.
Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena took over as the everyday shortstop after Carlos Correa’s free agent departure. In his rookie campaign, Pena hit .253 with 22 home runs and 63 RBI while playing Gold Glove caliber defense and leading the Astros back to the World Series. Autographed Topps Chrome autos like /70 Yellow have traded for $500-600 while his Gold Cup dual auto /10 with Jose Altuve reached $1800. Pena proved he’s a true star at a premium position and looks to have a long, productive career as an Astro.
Milwaukee Brewers catcher Victor Caratini didn’t make a huge statistical impact but showed strong plate discipline and catcher’s skills while filling in for an injured Pedro Severino. Caratini hit .218 in 80 games but displayed an advanced approach. His Best of Bowman Blue Refractor auto /50 has traded hands near $250 with upside as a solid backup catcher for years. Sleeper rookie pickups like Caratini that contribute at a thin position can pay dividends down the road for collectors.
Some other notable rookies and top cards to watch include Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. (Topps Chrome Rainbow Foil auto /2022 – $1000), Cincinnati Reds pitcher Hunter Greene (Topps Chrome Yellow Refractor auto /70 – $500), Los Angeles Angels pitcher Reid Detmers (2021 Bowman’s Best Blue Refractor auto /50 – $400), Philadelphia Phillies starter Ranger Suarez (Topps Chrome Pink Refractor auto /299 – $350) and Tampa Bay Rays infielder Jonathan Aranda (2021 Topps Fire Orange Refractor auto /99 – $250).
While rookie values often fluctuate year to year based on performance, these debuting talents from 2021 have shown the skills, potential and market demand to maintain and grow their card values for years to come as they continue developing in the major leagues. It will be exciting to watch how these top prospects pan out and impact the lucrative baseball card hobby market going forward.
