The 2026 baseball card market is shaping up to be one of the strongest in years.
A new wave of elite prospects is set to debut, break out or take major steps forward.
Collectors, investors and hobby newcomers all have reason to pay attention as these players could drive the biggest card spikes of the upcoming season.
Below are the top names to watch if you’re looking for the next big hobby risers in 2026.
Players to Watch in 2026
Jackson Holliday – Orioles
Holliday enters 2026 as one of the safest young bats in baseball.
He already shows advanced plate discipline and a polished approach.
If he starts hot, expect his rookies and parallels to jump quickly.
James Wood – Nationals
Wood brings huge power, elite size and strong on-base skills.
He started putting everything together in 2025.
With a full season ahead, his card market could climb fast.
Paul Skenes – Pirates
Skenes remains one of the most popular young arms the hobby has ever seen.
His dominance and star-level presence give his cards long-term appeal.
If he avoids injuries, his rookie market should stay extremely strong.
Dylan Crews – Nationals
Crews has the tools to bounce back in a big way.
His pedigree and athleticism keep collectors locked in.
A breakout year would push his cards right back into the spotlight.
Roki Sasaki – Dodgers
One of the biggest international names in the hobby.
Sasaki’s fastball, command and strikeout ability give him long-term ace potential.
If the Dodgers give him a full rotation spot to start 2026, collectors will be all over his cards.
Walker Jenkins – Twins
Jenkins continues to rise thanks to his advanced bat and mature approach.
If he accelerates through the minors, he becomes one of the top pre-rookie chases of 2026.
Prospect collectors will be watching him closely.
Ethan Salas – Padres
Salas has rare upside for a young catcher.
He’s advanced beyond his age and moves quickly through levels.
If he trends upward again in 2026, his prospect cards will heat up fast.
FAQ
Which players have the highest long-term value potential?
Jackson Holliday, James Wood and Paul Skenes sit at the top for long-term hobby stability.
Who is the best sleeper pick for 2026?
Walker Jenkins and Ethan Salas both offer high-upside profiles without the inflated prices of the top-tier names.
Are pitchers worth collecting in 2026?
Yes. Roki Sasaki and Paul Skenes are exceptions due to elite talent and strong hobby demand.
What cards should collectors focus on?
Bowman Chrome firsts, Topps flagship rookies, on-card autos and low-numbered parallels are the strongest long-term plays.
2 Comments
Might wanna run an edit over this post again. I wasn’t aware that Roki Sasaki played for the Mariners. As a fan, I wish he did, but… lol
You’re right, late edit to switch players in the article didn’t edit everything!