2024 Topps Chrome Baseball Top Rookies (Most Valuable)

Whether you're collecting, investing, or just following the future stars of Major League Baseball, the 2024 Topps Chrome rookie class features an elite group of young players with standout tools. Here's a breakdown of the top names to know — and what makes them special on the field. The players are ranked using a combination of their current base card value as of writing this article and performance during the most recent 2025 season. Of course, every collector has their own favorites and opinions may vary depending on what you value most: upside, team fit, or collectability.

1. Elly De La Cruz #44 – Cincinnati Reds (SS/3B)

Elly De La Cruz is one of the crown jewels of this rookie class. Known for his elite speed, switch-hitting power, and defensive versatility. He is a dynamic playmaker who can change the game with both his bat and his legs, making him a potential superstar. One of the most electrifying players in baseball, De La Cruz is a true five-tool talent.

2. Pete Crow-Armstrong #16 – Chicago Cubs (OF)

Crow-Armstrong is already one of the best defensive center fielders in the league. His elite instincts, range, and glove work are matched by his growing offensive profile. He brings energy to the top of the lineup with speed on the bases and gap-to-gap contact ability.

3. Jackson Merrill #207 – San Diego Padres (OF)

Originally a shortstop, Merrill has transitioned smoothly to the outfield while continuing to rake at the plate. Known for his advanced bat-to-ball skills and mature plate discipline, Merrill debuted with the Padres in 2024 and immediately impressed with his calm presence and consistent contact.

4. Jackson Chourio #161 – Milwaukee Brewers (OF)

Chourio brings explosive athleticism and loud tools. He’s a threat to hit 25+ homers and steal 30+ bases annually. Still refining his approach, he has one of the highest ceilings in the game and could blossom into an All-Star outfielder.

5. Jackson Holliday #88 – Baltimore Orioles (SS)

The No. 1 pick in the 2022 draft, Holliday is a high-IQ middle infielder with a polished approach at the plate. He sees pitches well, rarely chases, and projects as a high-average hitter with gap power. His fundamentals and maturity are years ahead of most players his age.

6. Wyatt Langford #122 – Texas Rangers (OF)

Langford is a muscular outfielder who hits the ball hard and often. He brings middle-of-the-order power with a keen eye that helps him draw walks and avoid chasing. His quick path to the majors shows just how advanced his bat is.

7. Junior Caminero #213 – Tampa Bay Rays (SS)

Caminero is a rising slugger with the potential to hit 30+ home runs. He’s built like a tank, swings with aggression, and doesn’t get cheated at the plate. Though still young, his offensive ceiling is enormous and he profiles as a big-time run producer.

8. Jasson Dominguez #89 – New York Yankees (OF)

Nicknamed "The Martian" for his otherworldly tools, Domínguez is a physical specimen with raw power and fast-twitch athleticism. He can hit from both sides, run well, and cover ground in center field. If he stays healthy, his tools could make him a star in New York.

9. Yoshinobu Yamamoto #18 – Los Angeles Dodgers (P)

Yamamoto came over from Japan as one of the most decorated international pitchers ever. He throws a mid-90s fastball with a nasty splitter and pinpoint control. Known for poise under pressure, he's a front-line starter with Cy Young upside.

10. Lawrence Butler #5 – Oakland Athletics (OF)

Butler is a toolsy outfielder with an imposing frame and natural power. While still refining his swing and approach, he offers long-term upside as a power-hitting corner outfielder. He stands out in a rebuilding A’s lineup for his ceiling alone.

Rank 11–25 Rookie Cards

11. Colt Keith #2 – Detroit Tigers (2B)
12. Shota Imanaga #121 – Chicago Cubs (P)
13. Jung Hoo Lee #201 – San Francisco Giants (OF)
14. Wilyer Abreu #165 – Boston Red Sox (OF)
15. Masyn Winn #189 – St. Louis Cardinals (SS)
16. Colton Cowser #278 – Baltimore Orioles (OF)
17. Ceddanne Rafaela #118 – Boston Red Sox (SS/OF)
18. Noelvi Marte #177 – Cincinnati Reds (3B)
19. Tyler Soderstrom #298 – Oakland Athletics (C/1B)
20. Evan Carter #136 – Texas Rangers (OF)
21. Austin Wells #281 – New York Yankees (C)
22. Jordan Westburg #277 – Baltimore Orioles (SS/3B)
23. Parker Meadows #271 – Detroit Tigers (OF)
24. Heston Kjerstad #142 – Baltimore Orioles (OF)
25. Sal Frelick #39 – Milwaukee Brewers (OF)

Other Notable Rookies

- Victor Scott #251 – St. Louis Cardinals (OF)
- Christian Encarnacion-Strand #65 – Reds (1B) 
- Jared Jones #96 – Pittsburgh Pirates (P)
- Jack Leiter #111 – Texas Rangers (P) 
- Marco Luciano #210 – San Francisco Giants (SS)
- Kyren Paris #151 – Los Angeles Angels (2B) 
- Jordan Lawlar #229 – Arizona Diamondbacks (SS)
- Andrew Abbott #154 – Cincinnati Reds (P)
- Bryan Woo #172 – Seattle Mariners (P) 
- Zack Gelof #282 – Oakland Athletics (2B)
- Ronny Mauricio #28 – New York Mets (SS/2B) 
- Hunter Goodman #99 – Colorado Rockies (1B/OF)
- Nolan Schanuel #274 – Los Angeles Angels (1B)
- AJ Smith-Shawver #19 – Atlanta Braves (P)

Final Thoughts

The 2024 Topps Chrome rookie class is packed with potential. Whether you're chasing future MVPs like Elly De La Cruz and Jackson Holliday, or buying in early on upside players like Caminero and Butler, each rookie brings something unique to the table. This class offers a little bit of everything—speed, power, defense, and star potential.