Best Shohei Ohtani Rookie Card: 2018 Bowman Chrome
Now that Shohei Ohtani has built up a track record of healthy play things are looking up. And when we say looking up we mean it in the best athlete on earth kind of way. Meaning, that an investment in a Shohei Ohtani rookie card could be a decision that you won’t forget. And with free agency looming in 2024, there will be no shortage of eyes on the amazing 2 way star in the seasons to come.
But will Ohtani old up over the long run? Due to the strain of both pitching and swinging the bat, this is the definition of a high-risk high-reward investment. However, a continued stretch of good health is almost all but certain to bring in some of the most incredible seasons of baseball any one player has ever produced. And if we get enough of those a place in the Hall of Fame is all but inevitable. So if you believe Ohtani’s injury problems are a thing of the past, here are 5 cards to consider adding to your collection!
Top 5 Shohei Ohtani Rookie Cards
2018 Bowman Chrome Pitcher Version
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And as sweet as that swing is, his windup and delivery are even sweeter (like cotton-candy level sweet). If Ohtani can deliver the wicked stuff he’s known for in his first season back at full health, the value of this card should only go UP. Along with his chances for comeback player of the year!
2018 Bowman Chrome Batter Version
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Ohtani may throw right, but as you can see from this beautiful (and very rare) Bowman Chrome rookie card, he bats left. And what a beautiful left-handed swing it is. Aesthetics aside, that swing has generated 40 home runs and more than 120 RBI over his first 2 seasons in the bigs (which only accounts for just over one full season of at-bats). He’s also been remarkably consistent at getting on base with a career .286 batting average and .351 OBP (thank you baseball-reference). Are bigger things coming in 2021? If so, you’ll be glad you owned this remarkable baseball card.
2018 Topps Finest Red Wave Refractor
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Simply put, this card is a gem. With features like that famous leg kick and a red-splashed background, who can resist? This one is nowhere near as valuable as the previous two and can still be had at a reasonable price (especially if you grab the non-autograph version). So if you’re looking for a good medium-range Shohei Ohtani rookie card that’s ripe with potential, this one’s for you.
2017 Bowman Mega Box “Otani”
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Ahhh, a classic “error” card. As we all know, a simple misspelling of a name can generate some MEGA value. So why not take a chance on an error card that showcases “Otani’s” abilities at the World Baseball Classic? The card is still VERY affordable and could explode in value once Shohei gets his game back in full swing.
2018 Topps Heritage
There are quite a few options from this collection but we prefer the helmetless “Red Ink” autograph variation shown above. If you’re looking for a less expensive option go with the base card or one of the more common refractors. Either way, it’s a sold set the offers some nostalgic Shohei Ohtani rookie cards.
Like Ohtani’s fastball? Here’s someone who can dial up the heat even higher! Check out these Michael Kopech rookie cards.
Best Shohei Ohtani Rookie Card: Investment Strategies
Short (1 year or less)
If Ohtani continues to live up to the hype this is a safe bet for decent gains. On the other hand an untimely injury could hinder your Shohei Ohtani rookie card investment if you’re planning on selling with this time frame in mind. A risky strategy but one that could pay off big.
Medium (1 to 5 years)
The productivity the first modern two-way player showed over the past couple of seasons should keep the best Shohei Ohtani rookie cards viable for some time. And while an untimely injuyr could hold back your investment for a short period of time, there should be plenty of big moments over the next 5 years. We’re very comfortable with this outlook.
Long (5 years plus)
While this strategy could pay off IMMENSELY, we’re a long ways away from knowing how this stories going to turn out. Put one of those Shohei Ohtani rookies cards away for the long haul and there’s a decent chance you’ll own one of the most sought after cards in the industry down the road.
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