Top 10 2024 MLB Rookies
2024 is in the books. The Dodgers are happy. Let’s all get back to chasing rookies. The 2024 class is a strong one, but perhaps not as deep as the 2023 class (although many in the 2023 class have fallen off). I’m in a list-making mood so let’s check in and see how the 2024 rookies stack up. There are lots of ways to rank these guys, but this is done simply based on how happy I’d be to pull one of their cards from a 2024 product.
Note: Players had to have had a Flagship Topps RC to be eligible
Not Great Yet
These guys all had disappointing 2024 seasons. They are all still highly regarded and are candidates to become big stars. Figuring out which slow starters will continue to disappoint like Spencer Torkelson and which will turn things around like Bobby Witt Jr. is a skill I wish I possessed.
10. Jasson Dominguez- He seems like he’s been around forever. His development leaves a lot to be desired, but his power upside is still likely the highest in the minors and he’s young enough to allow for slow development.
9. Junior Caminero- Injuries derailed him in 2024. He could be on a Riley Greene like path where collectors shy away after injuries and it takes a while for them to return.
8. Jackson Holliday- I no longer have to check the spelling on his last name. That’s the nicest thing I can think of for his 2024. There’s just not much positive to latch onto from his 2024 season. His talent keeps him hobby relevant and he wouldn’t be the first talented youngster to struggle before turning things around.
Defensive Guys who Might Hit a Bit
Both of these guys flashed some great leather and had stretches where they hit well. That combo doesn’t do well in the hobby unless they get on a HOF trajectory which limits their ceilings.
7. Ceddanne Rafaela- I like the Red Sox to make some noise in 2025 and I think he’ll be a solid part of that. Red Sox collectors have been in a funk though and he might not be flashy enough with the bat to get them excited. The hobby is better when Red Sox collectors are enthusiastic instead of traumatized, Here’s hoping he sparks the turnaround.
6. Pete Crow-Armstrong- There was little doubt he would play well in center. There was justifiable concern about his hitting. He had a strong August and if he can repeat that, he’ll be a perennial All-Star and well regarded in the hobby. If not, he’ll win some Gold Gloves and maybe a fan favorite Cub. He’s got a bright future in the league. I’m just not sure about his place in the hobby.
Already Productive Hitters
These four guys have already produced at a high enough level to maintain their hobby relevance for a while and I’m excited to pull any of them.
5. Wyatt Langford- A slow start cooled Langford’s cards in a hurry. His September was MVP-caliber and not many players have the ability to produce at the level for a full month. Those that do at a young age are big in the hobby.
4. Jackson Chourio- Chourio also started slow. He was also 12th in all of MLB in OPS after the All-Star break. If he’s in the top 25 of that next year, he’ll reclaim much of his lost hype.
3. Jackson Merrill- Being in a playoff race and performing well down the stretch (7th in OPS after the break) was impressive. If I ever see any bargains for his cards, I’ll hop on them, but I haven’t seen many deals.
2. Elly De La Cruz- He might steal 100 bases with 40 home runs one day. That’s exciting strikeouts be damned.
The Pitcher
A pitcher topping the list seems absurd yet here we are. It’s not because the hitters were bad either.
1. Paul Skenes- Sure, I’d sell the card immediately, but Skenes tops this list easily. If I rerank these guys next year, I don’t think Skenes makes the list unless he wins the Cy Young and that scares me into selling his cards instantly.