2024 Topps Series 2 Baseball Top Rookies (Most Valuable)
Baseball card collectors and fans alike are buzzing about 2024 Topps Series 2 Baseball, which has added a fresh wave of exciting rookie talent to the hobby. From dynamic hitters to electric arms, this checklist is packed with future stars. Here's a look at the most valuable rookie cards to chase in this flagship release with insights into each player's strengths and style of play. These rankings factor in a blend of current card values and on-field performance. Of course, every collector has their own favorites, and opinions may vary depending on what you value most: upside, team fit, or collectability.
1. Pete Crow-Armstrong #407 – Chicago Cubs (OF)
Known for his Gold Glove-caliber defense, PCA is already one of the most exciting center fielders in baseball. His range and instincts in the outfield are special, and he brings a high-contact, high-energy approach at the plate.
2. Junior Caminero #628 – Tampa Bay Rays (SS)
One of the most explosive young hitters in the game, Caminero combines raw power with a compact swing that generates serious exit velocity. The Rays’ top prospect rocketed through the minors thanks to his bat speed and advanced plate discipline.
3. Yoshinobu Yamamoto #553 – Los Angeles Dodgers (P)
One of the most hyped international pitchers to come to MLB in years, Yamamoto entered with massive expectations—and has delivered. Armed with a mid-to-upper 90s fastball, a devastating splitter, and incredible command, Yamamoto was a standout in Japan and is quickly making his mark in MLB.
4. Lawrence Butler #676 – Oakland Athletics (OF)
A dynamic athlete with legitimate five-tool potential, Butler brings a blend of power and speed that makes him one of the A’s most exciting young players. While his approach is still maturing, his left-handed swing produces loud contact, and he can cover ground in the outfield.
5. Shota Imanaga #442 – Chicago Cubs (P)
Another dominant arm from Japan, Imanaga brings a unique deception-heavy delivery and fantastic feel for pitching. His fastball plays up due to late life, and his off-speed arsenal keeps hitters off balance. He’s impressed early with his poise and ability to rack up strikeouts without overpowering stuff.
6. Jung Hoo Lee #691 – San Francisco Giants (OF)
A former KBO MVP, Lee is known for his elite bat-to-ball skills and a smooth, consistent swing from the left side. While not a power hitter, his ability to make contact and get on base gives him top-of-the-lineup potential. He’s also a polished defender with a high baseball IQ.
7. Wilyer Abreu #672 – Boston Red Sox (OF)
Abreu brings a disciplined approach at the plate, with an ability to work counts and reach base consistently. He has sneaky pop and a short, compact swing that plays well at Fenway Park. Defensively, he's serviceable and improving, with a strong arm in right field.
8. Masyn Winn #480 – St. Louis Cardinals (SS)
With one of the strongest arms in baseball, Winn is a defensive standout at shortstop. Offensively, he’s still developing but shows flashes of pop and speed. His athleticism and work ethic make him a long-term asset for the Cardinals’ infield.
9. Austin Wells #624 – New York Yankees (C)
A power-hitting catcher with leadership traits, Wells has steadily improved his receiving behind the plate while showcasing left-handed power that plays well at Yankee Stadium. He could be a mainstay behind the dish thanks to his competitiveness and improving defense.
10. Jordan Lawlar #451 – Arizona Diamondbacks (SS)
A former top-10 draft pick, Lawlar is a high-upside shortstop with the tools to be a future star. He features plus speed, a quick bat, and solid instincts on both sides of the ball. Injuries have slowed him at times, but the potential is undeniable.
Other Notable Rookies
⚾ Heston Kjerstad #394 – Baltimore Orioles (OF)
⚾ Tyler Fitzgerald #602 – San Francisco Giants (SS)
⚾ Parker Meadows #516 – Detroit Tigers (OF)
⚾ Kyren Paris #549 – Los Angeles Angels (2B)
⚾ Noelvi Marte #548 – Cincinnati Reds (3B)
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Topps Series 2 checklist has quickly become a magnet for collectors thanks to its impressive crop of rising stars. Whether you're chasing raw potential, standout 2025 performance, or long-term upside, this release offers a well-rounded mix of position players and pitchers who are already making an impact at the big-league level. As the season progresses and these rookies continue to establish themselves, expect values to fluctuate—making now an exciting time to invest, trade, or simply build out your personal collection. Keep an eye on these names—they’re not just rookie cards, they’re the early chapters of what could be legendary careers.
