2025 Rookie of the Year Watch: Which MLB Rookies Should Be on Your Card Radar?

SGA Team

May 21, 2025

Rookie Card Education

Looking to invest in the right 2025 rookie cards? We break down the early Rookie of the Year frontrunners like Jacob Wilson and AJ Smith-Shawver and what it means for collectors.

2025 MLB Rookie of the Year Poll Highlights Key Players for Sports Card Investors

With the 2025 MLB season heating up, the first Rookie of the Year poll offers valuable insight for collectors tracking the next breakout stars. For sports card enthusiasts, these early-season performances could forecast major spikes in rookie card values. Let’s dive into the names leading the pack — and what their rise could mean for the hobby.

Jacob Wilson Tops AL Rookie Poll: A Breakout Star in the Making

Oakland A’s shortstop Jacob Wilson has quickly impressed with a strong bat and clean defensive work. His .299 batting average through May, combined with a mature approach at the plate, has made him a standout on an otherwise rebuilding A’s roster.

Why It Matters to Collectors:
Wilson’s early success has already drawn comparisons to established shortstops, and his 2024 Bowman 1st Chrome and Topps Now rookie cards are gaining attention. If he sustains his performance, expect demand — and values — to climb rapidly.

Cards to Watch:

2024 Bowman Chrome Prospects #BCP-XX
2024 Topps Now Rookie Cards
Any on-card autos from Topps Pro Debut or Bowman’s Best

AJ Smith-Shawver Leads NL Race: Braves Prospect Turning Heads

Atlanta Braves pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver is making the most of his first extended big-league opportunity. With a strong fastball-slider combo and poise beyond his years, he’s already helping anchor Atlanta’s rotation.

Why It Matters to Collectors:
As a local Georgia favorite, Smith-Shawver’s cards have seen early spikes on eBay and at regional card shows. Collectors who invested early may be in for serious returns if he maintains this level of play — especially if the Braves make a postseason run.

Cards to Watch:

2023 Bowman Chrome 1st Auto (especially Refractors)
2024 Topps Series 1 RC
Topps Heritage or Chrome short prints

Other Notables: Keep These Names on Your Radar

Masyn Winn (Cardinals) – Speedy shortstop with upside and a growing fan base.
Junior Caminero (Rays) – Power-hitting infielder with prospect pedigree; already a favorite among hobby investors.
Ceddanne Rafaela (Red Sox) – Dynamic fielder and spark plug.
Joey Ortiz (Brewers) – Strong plate discipline and versatile glove.

These names round out the top of the poll and offer potential for sleeper investments as the season unfolds.

Tips for Collecting 2025 Rookie Cards

If you’re looking to ride the wave of this exciting rookie class:

Target flagship rookie cards (Topps Series 1, Bowman 1st Chrome).
Look for PSA 10s or raw cards with grading potential.
Follow the Rookie of the Year races weekly — performance surges can trigger price spikes.
Use comps from eBay and SportsCardsPro to track value trends.

Final Thoughts: Stay Ahead of the Rookie Curve

The first 2025 MLB Rookie of the Year poll gives collectors a glimpse into where the value may shift in the months ahead. Whether you’re flipping for profit or building your PC, players like Jacob Wilson and AJ Smith-Shawver should absolutely be on your radar.

At SGA Trading Cards, we’ll continue tracking these rookies all season long.