In the exhilarating world of baseball card collecting, where cards are not just pieces of paper but coveted treasures, grading trends provide a unique insight into the players who are capturing the hearts of collectors. The year 2024 has been no exception, with standout rookies and top prospects dominating the grading market and setting the stage for the future of the hobby.
Leading the pack in the realm of MLB rookies is none other than Elly De La Cruz, whose presence in the grading market has been nothing short of electrifying. With a staggering 93,194 cards graded by November 4, De La Cruz has emerged as the frontrunner among rookies, showcasing his immense popularity among collectors. His cards have become a hot commodity, sought after by enthusiasts eager to add a piece of his rookie journey to their collections.
Hot on De La Cruz’s heels are the talented National League Rookie of the Year, Paul Skenes, and the promising prospect, Jackson Holliday. According to data from Gemrate.com analyzed by Baseball America, these young stars have garnered significant attention in the grading world, solidifying their positions as key players to watch in the baseball card collecting community.
As the year unfolded, it became evident that the MVPs were not to be overshadowed. The National League MVP, Shohei Ohtani, set a remarkable standard in the grading market, with an astounding 231,783 cards graded in the first 10 months of 2024 alone. Ohtani’s popularity transcends boundaries, making him the most collectible player in the hobby. His cumulative total of 740,000 graded cards places him second all-time, a testament to his incredible impact on the baseball card collecting landscape.
The realm of prospects also witnessed its fair share of excitement, with young talents like Jasson Dominguez, Dylan Crews, and Walker Jenkins making waves in the grading arena. These up-and-coming stars have captured the imagination of collectors, fueling interest in their future endeavors and potential as baseball’s next big names. The influx of graded cards for these prospects reflects the growing fervor surrounding baseball’s rising talents and the anticipation of what lies ahead for the sport.
The data on grading activity is sourced from the major players in the card-collecting industry, including PSA, BGS, ISA, SGC, and CGC. Their involvement underscores the widespread influence of grading trends across the hobby, shedding light not only on player performance but also on collector sentiment and market dynamics.
Understanding grading trends is crucial for collectors seeking to navigate the ever-evolving market and capitalize on potential investment opportunities. The numbers offer valuable insights into player popularity, market demand, and the trajectory of card values, guiding enthusiasts in making informed decisions about their collections. From rookies like Elly De La Cruz to prospects like Jasson Dominguez, the grading trends provide a roadmap for collectors to anticipate the next big stars in the hobby and stay ahead of the curve.
As the year progresses and the baseball card market continues to evolve, these players will remain at the forefront, captivating collectors with their performances on the field and their allure in the grading market. The journey of baseball card collecting in 2024 promises to be filled with excitement, surprises, and the thrill of discovering the next generation of baseball legends.
