The Top Rookie Cards to Watch in 2026 Topps Series 1

A Collector’s Guide to Future Stars (and Why Rookie Cards Matter)

Topps officially released its 2026 Series 1 set this month, and early conversation around the hobby suggests this year’s release could be one of the stronger rookie classes in recent memory. Collectors and early breakers have pointed to the depth of the rookie checklist as a big reason for the excitement, with several highly ranked prospects appearing in flagship form for the first time.

Every year brings new names to watch, but 2026 Series 1 feels especially interesting for collectors who enjoy following young players as their careers begin to take shape.

⭐ 1. Roman Anthony (OF, Boston Red Sox)

If there’s one rookie collectors are circling first, it’s Roman Anthony.

Anthony has the combination hobby collectors love:

• Advanced hit tool

• Plate discipline

• Everyday lineup upside

• Strong prospect pedigree

Players who get on base and hit near the top of the lineup tend to stay relevant in the hobby for a long time. If Anthony starts hot early in the season, his rookie cards could move quickly.

Why collectors like him: High floor, long-term star potential.

⭐ 2. Jac Caglianone (1B/OF, Kansas City Royals)

Power sells in baseball cards — and Caglianone has plenty of it.

Big power hitters often create early hype because home runs drive highlights, social media attention, and hobby interest. If he shows early pop at the major league level, his rookie cards could see fast short-term spikes.

Why collectors like him: Power upside and highlight potential.

⭐ 3. Samuel Basallo (C, Baltimore Orioles)

Catchers are usually risky in the hobby, but after an epic 60 home run season from Seattle's Cal Raleigh, people may see things differently. Also, Basallo is different. He’s known more for his bat than his defense, and offensive catchers tend to stand out quickly.

The Orioles’ young core has already created excitement among collectors, and Basallo fits right into that timeline.

Why collectors like him: Offensive upside at a premium position.

⭐ 4. Colson Montgomery (SS, Chicago White Sox)

Shortstops historically do very well in the hobby — especially players who stick at the position long term.

Montgomery has size, athleticism, and everyday potential. If he becomes a middle-of-the-order bat while staying at shortstop, his rookie cards could age very well.

Why collectors like him: Premium position + long-term upside.

⭐ 5. Jacob Misiorowski (SP, Milwaukee Brewers)

Pitchers always come with risk, but electric arms create hobby excitement. Misiorowski has big velocity and strikeout potential, which makes him one of the most talked-about rookie pitchers in this release.

If he puts together a few dominant starts early, collectors tend to react fast.

Why collectors like him: High ceiling and strikeout potential.

⚾ What Actually Makes a Rookie Card Valuable?

Not all rookie cards are equal. When opening packs, collectors look for:

• The RC (rookie card) shield

• Numbered parallels (Gold, Blue, Orange, Red, etc.)

• Short prints or image variations

• Autographs

A base rookie card is fun — but a numbered or rare version is where long-term value usually lives.

🧢 Why Rookie Cards Matter for Kids and New Collectors

One of the best parts of opening Series 1 with young players is that it connects collecting to the game itself. Kids can follow the players they pull throughout the season and watch their careers unfold in real time.

At Coyote Kids Baseball Club, rookie cards are a reminder that every big leaguer once started as a beginner — learning the fundamentals, building confidence, and falling in love with the game.... one rep at a time.

If you’re opening packs with your kids this season, rookie cards can be a fun way to follow new players and learn more about the game together. Focus less on value and more on the experience — watching players develop over time is part of what makes baseball special.