Top Rookie Cards:
Julio Rodriguez, OF, Seattle Mariners – Rodriguez had a breakout rookie season in 2022 and looks like a future star. His rookie cards are hot and will likely continue rising in value as he develops his career. The 2021 Topps Chrome Blue Refractor parallel is one of his most desired rookies.
Bobby Witt Jr., SS, Kansas City Royals – The number 2 pick in the 2019 draft, Witt showed why the hype was real in his inaugural season. He possesses five-tool talents and could be a perennial All-Star. His 2021 Bowman Chrome Sapphire Refractor is highly coveted.
Adley Rutschman, C, Baltimore Orioles – As the number 1 pick in 2019, Rutschman took some time to develop but had a solid debut campaign and looks like a cornerstone catcher. He’s still very affordable and packs like 2021 Bowman Draft hold plenty of long term upside.
Established Stars Poised for Growth:
Juan Soto, OF, Washington Nationals – Soto just turned 24 and is already one of the best hitters in baseball. He remains somewhat under the radar in the hobby compared to premier stars but that will change as he gains mainstream appeal. His Topps Chrome rookies from 2018 are a steal for the talent level.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr., 3B/1B, Toronto Blue Jays – At just 23, Guerrero is living up to the hype as one of the game’s most feared sluggers. His 2018 Bowman Chrome cards are still attractively priced for such a young powerhouse. As he continues cementing his stardom, these will rise significantly.
Ronald Acuña Jr., OF, Atlanta Braves – Only 25, Acuña is a five-tool star when healthy. His knee injury slowed his momentum in 2022 but he’ll be back with vengeance next season. His 2018 Bowman Chrome and Topps Chrome rookie selections offer elite talent at mid-tier prices currently.
Rookie Pitchers with Ace Potential:
Grayson Rodriguez, RHP, Baltimore Orioles – Rodriguez dominated the minors and made his MLB debut in 2022, flashing a high-octane four-pitch mix. He looks destined for stardom as Baltimore’s next #1. Pick up his 2021 Bowman Chrome Sapphire cards now before he takes off.
George Kirby, RHP, Seattle Mariners – Kirby breezed through the minors and showed poise in the bigs as a rookie, relying on pinpoint command plus a sinking two-seamer. He profiles as a potential frontline starter who could anchor Seattle’s rotation for years. 2021 Bowman Chrome Refractors are a solid long term gamble.
Shane Baz, RHP, Tampa Bay Rays – Baz overcame an elbow injury that cost him all of 2022 with flying colors in the Arizona Fall League. When healthy, his stuff rivals any pitching prospect in baseball. Given the Rays’ ability to develop arms, Baz could blossom into an ace if you buy in now on his 2021 Topps Chrome autograph or refractor cards.
Veteran Stars Poised for Resurgence:
Mike Trout, OF, Los Angeles Angels – At just 30, Trout is already an all-time great but injuries have slowed him the past two years. Once fully healthy again, expect a monstrous bounce back season that lifts the value of his entire rookie card collection from 2009-2011.
Gerrit Cole, RHP, New York Yankees – Cole will be 32 in 2023 and is still in his prime. A career year could be in the books if he stays off the injured list. As one of the game’s premier aces, his collectors are hoping his early Topps autographs from 2008-2010 will regain lost steam in value.
Nolan Arenado, 3B, St Louis Cardinals – Only 31, Arenado continues producing like an elite defender and middle-of-the-order thumper. He brings five-tools to the table and his 2009 Topps rookie debut holds long term collectibility as a proven superstar.
There are always surprises in baseball, but these players represent smart bets at various collecting levels for the coming year based on their talents, ages, situations and recent performances. By doing additional research into each player and tracking their progress throughout 2023, savvy collectors can likely profit on these recommended baseball cards picks over the long run. Let me know if any part of the answer needs further explanation or expansion.
