Baseball card collecting has been a beloved hobby for fans of the sport for decades. Many enthusiasts are rediscovering this passion, often sharing the experience with their children. My own adventure into the world of card collecting began two years ago, and since then, I’ve delved into various card sets, engaged in buying and selling, and closely monitored the card market.
In my recent explorations, I’ve penned articles on market trends, such as “Prospecting Baseball Cards in 2025” and “Tracking the Topps 1952 Mickey Mantle.” This journey has included watching numerous videos from hobby influencers who predict the top players and cards to invest in. As a baseball writer, I dedicate countless hours to analyzing players and teams, which naturally extends to my card collecting endeavors.
Criteria for Collectible Players
When determining the most collectible players, the criteria are straightforward. The first category includes MLB veterans who debuted before the 2020 season. The second category features players who made their debut in 2020 or later. This distinction is vital, as rookie cards are highly sought after in the card market.
Veteran Collectibles
The top six players in this category are clear standouts. Shohei Ohtani is currently the most collectible player, with his cards expected to appreciate as he continues to shine. Aaron Judge, the iconic Yankees player, has had several remarkable seasons, and postseason success will further boost his value. Mike Trout’s cards are among the most valuable, with some fetching up to $3.84 million. The remaining spots were more challenging to fill. Ronald Acuna Jr.’s value depends on his ability to stay healthy, while Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s value could skyrocket based on his free agency outcome after the 2025 season. Both Freddie Freeman and Corey Seager are celebrated World Series champions. Justin Verlander, a future Hall of Famer, is the only pitcher on this list, with Lindor and Altuve also being strong contenders.
Rising Stars
This list is more speculative due to the players’ shorter careers. Bobby Witt Jr. is seen as a generational talent, with his value expected to climb. Gunnar Henderson is on a similar path. Paul Skenes, the only pitcher on either list, saw his card prices soar in 2024. The Skenes 2024 Topps Chrome 1/1 Rookie Patch Auto was a hot topic in the hobby. Henderson and Skenes, along with J-Rod and Carroll, are recent Rookies of the Year Award winners. Elly De La Cruz’s cards are in high demand, with his potential as a 30-30+ or even 40-40+ player generating excitement. The list of top-tier young outfielders is extensive, making it difficult to choose. Yordan Alvarez could easily top this list based on statistics alone, but he doesn’t receive as much attention. Tarik Skubal is coming off a Triple Crown season, and the Jacksons are players to watch this year.
Conclusion
Compiling a Top 10 list is challenging, as on-field performance can shift the rankings. An updated list will be released at the All-Star Break, reflecting the season’s developments. What did I get right? What did I miss? What are you buying or selling? These answers depend on your collection and how card prices fluctuate throughout the season. Baseball cards offer a unique and sometimes profitable way to engage with the game.
