The Highlights
|
With the 2025 MLB season firmly in the rearview mirror and the excitement (or frustration!) of the Dodgers’ World Series win fresh in our minds, now’s the best time for collectors to make a move for 2026’s best rookies.
As always, all bets are off the table when it comes to these players still looking to make their mark.
Find out who’s most likely to endure and carve out a legacy next year with this Skybox Collectibles blog.
5 Rookies To Watch in 2026
Travis Bazzana
If we’re talking baseball rookies in 2026, Travis Bazzana needs to be on your radar. This #1 pick for the Guardians boasted a dazzling .407/.568/.911 slash line in 2024, and his skillset includes:
- Quality bat speed and top-notch swing decisions
- Nearly no obvious weaknesses on the plate
- Plus raw power, putting him in the upper echelon of rookies heading into 2026
If you’re planning on opening baseball boxes this year, keep an eye out for this MLB star in the making. The Guardians’ top prospect could be the rookie of the year in 2026 if he can stick the landing.
Chase Burns
This wipeout slider has all the makings of an all-star, and he might just be one of the best baseball rookies in 2026. As a starting pitcher for the Reds, his debut has been nothing short of blistering, striking out 10 batters in four out of his five starts.
It’s not all upside. Burns is recovering from a recent injury, but it’s minor enough not to be a significant roadblock for him in the coming season. If he can hone those skills in offseason training, this 2026 MLB rookie is absolutely going to be an MVP contender.
Jeremiah Jackson
Jackson’s introduction has been something of a shot in the arm for a fading Orioles team. The power-hitting infielder/outfielder started strong in his August debut, and his 10 multi-hit games make him a strong contender for a top baseball rookie in 2026.
What really makes Jeremiah Jackson one to watch if you’re opening sports card boxes next year? The hype’s on his side. His potential to revive the Orioles’ long-term chances is going to be a significant booster for the player’s popularity in 2026 and beyond.
Nolan McLean
The Mets may be the league’s perpetual underdogs, but the hype never seems to wane whenever a new season comes around. For 2026, this baseball rookie is going to be a driving force behind that hype. Here’s why:
- He has the lowest ERA of any MLB pitcher in six starts (1.19).
- He’s rarely allowed more than two runs in his starts.
- Seasoned, playoff-contending rosters haven’t managed to shake his confidence.
Only time will tell whether McLean’s baseball card singles are going to be valuable, but the odds are looking pretty good at this point. Could he be what the Mets have been looking for? We’re excited to find out.
Hurston Waldrep
As far as our 2026 MLB rookie list is concerned, Waldrep is a bit of an outlier, considering he briefly got a bit of playtime in 2024, albeit with a lackluster showing. Why is he in the running for a potential top 2026 baseball rookie?
Evolution.
His August 2025 baseball comeback saw the pitcher achieve a sub-1.00 ERA, becoming a contender for Pitcher of the Year seemingly overnight. Any player who can adapt to that level and implement precise mechanical adjustments is a strong contender for 2026’s MVP race.
Get the MVP Collector’s Experience
From graded baseball card singles to basketball card boxes, Skybox Collectibles has you covered with an all-star inventory. Buying sports cards online is easier with free shipping on USA orders over $200, an incredible rewards program, and competitive pricing on the latest hobby boxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best baseball rookies of 2026?
Only time will tell whether 2025’s best prospects and top rookies can transition well to the next season. However, you should keep an eye out for rookies like Chase Burns, Jeremiah Jackson, and Nolan McLean.
How will MLB rookie status be determined for 2026?
The league outlines definite rules around rookie eligibility for players, including:
- 130 at-bats or 50 innings pitched in the Majors.
- 45 days in total on an active Major League roster during the Championship Season.
- This excludes time spent on the Injured List.
How early can I collect the top 2026 baseball rookies?
Now’s the best time! Most of the next season’s potential top rookies already have their RCs out, and you can always pick up a draft card for a player without a current RC.
