The 2024 Bowman Chrome release has once again captured the attention of collectors with its stunning design, impressive checklist, and the promise of uncovering future MLB stars. This year, Bowman Chrome offers both Hobby and HTA (Home Team Advantage) boxes, each catering to different types of collectors. Let’s dive into what makes these boxes special and what you can expect when you crack them open.
In the 2024 Bowman Chrome Baseball release, collectors will be thrilled to find the inclusion of legendary players Sandy Koufax and Lou Gehrig featured as Retrofractors. These specially crafted Retrofractors pay homage to the iconic careers of Koufax, known for his dominance on the mound with the Dodgers, and Gehrig, whose storied career with the Yankees remains legendary. The Retrofractor parallels, which are limited in number and highly sought after, capture the timeless essence of these Hall of Famers with a nostalgic twist. Each card showcases a unique design that connects the past with the present, making these Retrofractors a must-have for serious collectors and fans alike.
Hobby Boxes
The 2024 Bowman Chrome Hobby Boxes are a staple for collectors who enjoy the thrill of the hunt. Each Hobby Box contains 12 packs, split into two mini-boxes, with 5 cards per pack. This format ensures a steady stream of excitement as you work your way through the packs.
Key Features:
- Autographs: Each Hobby Box guarantees 2 Chrome autographs, providing a solid chance to pull some of the most sought-after signatures in the hobby.
- Parallels: The Hobby Boxes are packed with a variety of parallels, including Refractors, Fuchsia, Aqua RayWave, Blue, Green, Yellow, Gold, Orange, Red, and the elusive Superfractors.
- Base Set: The base set consists of 200 cards, split evenly between 100 veterans/rookies and 100 prospects.
HTA Boxes
For those who are all about the autographs, the HTA Boxes are the way to go. Each HTA Box contains just three cards, but all three are guaranteed to be autographs, making it a high-risk, high-reward option.
Key Features:
- Autographs: Each HTA Box includes 3 on-card autographs, with exclusive parallels like HTA Choice, Green Lava, Gold Shimmer, Orange Wave, and Red Wave.
- Exclusivity: The HTA Boxes are known for their exclusive autograph content, which can include some of the most desirable signatures in the set.
Design and Quality
Both the Hobby and HTA boxes feature the premium Chromium finish that Bowman Chrome is known for. The cards are visually stunning, with crisp photography and a sleek design that highlights the players’ images beautifully.
Value and Collectibility
The value of Bowman Chrome boxes often hinges on the strength of the prospect checklist, and 2024 is no exception. With a mix of top-tier prospects and promising rookies, these boxes offer plenty of potential for both short-term and long-term investment.
Top Prospects to Watch
- Jose Perdomo – Atlanta Braves, a 17-year-old shortstop, is one of the most hyped International Free Agents in his class, commanding a $5M signing bonus from the Braves. Initially expected to play in the U.S., a hamstring injury sidelined those plans, and he only managed eight games in the Dominican Summer League. With no significant pro footage, scouts continue to rave about his five-tool potential, especially his offensive upside in hitting, power, and speed. While there are some defensive questions, his overall ceiling is extremely high, and he’s considered to be in the conversation as one of the top prospects in his class.
- Emil Morales – Los Angeles Dodgers, a 17-year-old shortstop from the Canary Islands, has already made waves in the DSL, leading the league in home runs by a solid margin and showing off an impressive all-around offensive game. He hit .342 with a .478 OBP, demonstrating power and contact ability. Known for his quick hands and athletic swing, Morales produces huge exit velocities, though he still chases pitches and needs polish. While currently playing shortstop, there’s speculation that adding more muscle could shift him to third base, where his potential 40-HR power could shine. Despite some rawness, Morales’ upside is undeniable, making him the #2 prospect in his set, with a high ceiling for power and offensive impact.
- Leodalis De Vries – San Diego Padres, the 17-year-old shortstop and top International Free Agent of the 2024 class, has quickly risen to prominence, now considered the top shortstop prospect in baseball and a top 25 overall prospect. LDV has shown why the Padres aggressively pushed him up the ranks, skipping lower levels and proving himself with an outstanding July, hitting .318 with 8 home runs and 5 stolen bases. Despite a shoulder strain in August, he’s expected to bounce back strong in the Arizona Fall League. A true five-tool player, LDV excels in hitting, power, speed, and defense, making him a prospect with long-term hype across real baseball, fantasy, and card collecting communities.
- Paulino Santana – Texas Rangers, a 17-year-old outfielder, is emerging as one of the Rangers’ top prospects, despite receiving a lower $1.3MM signing bonus. Standing at 6’2″, Santana is already displaying four of his five-tool potential, with notable speed and defensive ability. At the plate, his mature approach and effortless, rhythmic swing are impressive, especially given his age. Although his power hasn’t fully developed yet (just 10 extra-base hits in 53 games), it’s expected to come as he adds strength. His disciplined approach, reflected in a solid BB:K ratio, suggests he’s prioritizing long-term development over quick power gains. Santana’s potential keeps him in the conversation as one of the top 3 players in his class.
- Stiven Martinez (Orioles, OF, 17) – At 6’4”, Martinez is a lean and powerful outfield prospect with impressive raw power. He showcased his potential by hitting a 400-foot walk-off homer to the opposite field, hinting at his ability to develop better plate discipline as he matures. His current high strikeout rate (over 30%) could improve as he refines his swing mechanics, including calming his big leg kick. While he’s not known for speed and will likely move to a corner outfield position, his plus raw power is the main attraction. Signed for $950K, Martinez is a promising name to watch for his power-hitting potential.
- Starlyn Nunez (Red Sox, 3B, 18) – Nunez, a minor IFA signing, impressed in the DSL and was promoted stateside for 2024. Though raw, his bat speed and quick hands show promise. His swing is uppercut-heavy, resulting in lots of fly balls but not enough power yet. Nunez has a solid approach, dialing back his aggression and making good contact, suggesting potential for a more well-rounded offensive game as he matures and gains strength. Despite a mixed year, his sub-20% K rate and .180 ISO show that he’s a hidden gem with a ceiling that could surprise as he develops further.
- Yordanny Monegro (Red Sox, P, 21) – Monegro enjoyed a breakout year, earning two promotions and repeating his success with a strikeout rate over 30% and an opponent batting average under .200. Though inconsistent early on, his post-July performances have been dominant. With a four-pitch mix—featuring a mid-90s fastball, a high-80s slider, a split change, and a slow curve—Monegro’s command has improved significantly. His workload has been managed carefully, limiting his innings, but he projects as more than a back-end starter. A potential 2025 debut is on the horizon, and his projection has him trending toward a solid #4 starter, if not better.
- Fernando Cruz (Cubs, SS, 17) – Signed for a hefty $4M bonus, Cruz is a highly touted prospect with potential five-tool capabilities. His defense and speed are strong, showing above-average projections. However, his hitting is a work in progress, with noticeable balance issues and an overly aggressive swing that leads to frequent misses. Despite these concerns, his natural bat speed and raw power are promising. At 5’11” and 180 pounds, Cruz has room to grow physically, potentially adding more strength without sacrificing mobility. His development will take time, but he remains a top 10 prospect in this class with significant upside.
- Abraham Nunez (White Sox, OF, 18) – Nunez, signed for $700K, had a solid DSL season and continued to show potential in the Complex League this year. His physical development is still underway, and his power hasn’t fully emerged yet. His swing remains promising, with good contact quality and added leg kick to improve timing. Nunez’s hit tool remains ahead of his power, and despite some struggles with aggression affecting his contact rate, he retains potential as a quality hitter. No major changes are expected from his earlier ranking; he remains a player to watch for future growth.
- Joswa Lugo (Angels, SS, 17) – Lugo, the top prospect in the Angels’ J15 class and a $2.3M signee, stands out with his 6’3” frame and impressive play at shortstop. His speed is notable, and his bat shows considerable promise, highlighted by a powerful swing that has already produced impressive results. Lugo’s main challenge is refining his approach and reducing aggression to improve his hit tool. Despite the Angels’ questionable development track record, Lugo’s potential makes him a high-risk, high-reward prospect with a superstar ceiling. He’s at the top of Tier 2, with a high ceiling and significant hobby interest.
- Thayron Liranzo (Dodgers, C/1B, 21) – Liranzo, signed for $4M, has impressive power potential, evident from his breakout 2023 season with a .562 SLG and 24 home runs. Despite high strikeout rates, his .400 OBP and all-fields power highlight his offensive upside. However, his 2024 season in High-A was challenging, with only 12 extra-base hits and a .220 average before a trade to the Tigers rejuvenated his performance. In his first games with Detroit, he posted a staggering 1.318 OPS. Though Liranzo’s catching defense remains a concern, his bat is his standout feature, making him a high-risk, high-reward prospect with a solid ceiling.
- Elias Medina (Dodgers, OF, 18) – Medina, who signed for $177K, showed promise in the DSL despite starting the year injured. His .313/.381/.553 slash line from last year and athletic build make him an intriguing prospect. Listed at 5’10”, he has impressive raw power and above-average speed, often playing center field. Medina’s free-swinging nature results in a high strikeout rate, but his ability to take walks and the potential for development make him a candidate for Low-A next year. His future looks bright, but his risk level remains high due to his current inconsistency.
- Andres Valor (Marlins, OF, 18) – Valor, with a highly projectable frame, showcases five-tool potential despite lacking maturity. His speed is a major asset, evidenced by 35 stolen bases in the Complex League. Valor’s swing features a large leg kick, which could be refined as he adds strength. His current mechanics result in a high strikeout rate and lower launch angles, but his quick hands and barrel control are promising. Valor is an aggressive hitter with potential for future success, though his power is yet to fully develop. His broad range of potential outcomes makes him a high-risk, high-reward prospect with a promising ceiling.
- Juan Baez (Brewers, 3B, 19) – Baez has been a consistent presence on watchlists thanks to his impressive contact skills and ability to make quality contact. Despite his limited power output so far, he regularly makes solid contact, especially pulling the ball. His low strikeout rate and flat swing suggest he has a solid hit tool, but power development is still a question mark. With a smaller frame and a move away from shortstop, Baez is likely to settle at third base or second base. His current value lies in his advanced hit tool, but his power development will be crucial to his future prospects.
- Josh Adamczewski (Brewers, 2B, 19) – A surprising standout from the 15th round of the draft, Adamczewski has impressed with his performance in the Complex League and Single-A. His .950 OPS in the Complex League, coupled with a strong walk rate, indicates a solid approach at the plate. Despite a high ground ball rate and below-average speed, his ability to make consistent contact and patience make him an intriguing prospect. If he can elevate his ball a bit more, he could see a power breakout. His body and game are still developing, but he’s a player to watch for potential growth.
- Eduardo Beltre (Twins, OF, 17) – Beltre, one of the top signings in the IFA class, has shown substantial promise with his bat. His impressive .300/.400/.600 slash line and double-digit home runs in the DSL highlight his potential. Beltre’s compact swing and bat speed are key assets, though he can be pull-heavy and occasionally overswing. His current CF role might shift to a corner OF position as he matures and adds mass. Despite the risk associated with his youth and power development, Beltre’s ceiling is high, making him a solid investment.
- Daiber De Los Santos (Twins, SS, 17) – De Los Santos, the top signing in the Twins’ IFA class, is a highly raw but immensely talented prospect. His physical tools, including speed and bat speed, are evident, though he is still developing his approach and strike zone discipline. His potential is clear, but his current issues with swing-and-miss and approach need improvement. As he gains experience and refines his skills, his ceiling remains very high. De Los Santos and Beltre are both exciting prospects to follow as they advance through the system.
- Jeremy Rodriguez (Mets 18, SS) – Rodriguez, a highly regarded international signing from 2023, was acquired by the Mets after the Diamondbacks traded him away for Tommy Pham. Despite being just 18, Rodriguez has exceeded expectations with his impressive hit tool, solid defense, and above-average speed. The primary question mark is his power; while he has potential for gap-to-gap power, he’s not likely to become a home run hitter. His high floor is highlighted by a low strikeout rate and effective contact skills. As a top international prospect with a significant signing bonus, Rodriguez has the potential to crack the Mets’ top 5-10 prospects and may even land on Top 100 lists soon.
- Brandon Sproat (Mets 23, P) – drafted by the Mets in 2023, Sproat has quickly risen through the ranks, surpassing other pitching prospects in the system. After a strong start in High-A and Double-A, his performance in Triple-A has been uneven but promising. Sproat excels at controlling walks and generating strikeouts, with a repertoire that includes a high-velocity four-seamer, cutter, and effective change-up and slider. Although his curveball is less consistent, his overall arsenal and ability to miss bats position him as a potential SP2 with a high ceiling.
- Francisco Vilorio (Yankees 17, OF) – Vilorio was the Yankees’ top international signing of January 2024, is a physically imposing outfielder with significant power potential. Standing at 6’4”, he has room for further physical development and shows a smooth, rhythmic swing with impressive bat speed. Despite his strong offensive tools, Vilorio struggles with pitch recognition and swing decisions, which could limit his hit tool if not addressed. Defensively, he’s a solid center fielder with the speed and arm to potentially stay there, or move to right field if needed. While his pitch recognition is a concern, Vilorio’s raw power and potential make him a high-risk, high-reward prospect with a ceiling that ranges from solid to elite, making him a notable figure for collectors and fantasy enthusiasts alike.
- Ben Rice (Yankees 25, 1B) – Rice, who made a splash in the MLB with a hot streak after being called up to replace an injured Anthony Rizzo, is an offense-first first baseman with significant power potential. Known for his patient approach and short, effective swing, Rice generated excitement with a notable run of home runs that elevated his stock. Despite his strong early performance and the favorable hitting environment of Yankee Stadium, his long-term profile is somewhat limited, especially given his defensive struggles and the Yankees’ focus on other catching options. His peak seasons could include substantial home run totals, justifying a Tier 2 rating in the short term. However, his long-term value might be slightly below Tier 2, with the potential to be a solid contributor if he maintains his power and hitting skills.
- Lisbel Diaz (Giants 19, OF) – Diaz, who excelled in the DSL and Complex leagues before his promotion to Single-A, presents a mixed bag of impressive tools and notable concerns. His swing path is geared for power, and he’s already demonstrated some of that with 10 home runs in 62 games this season. However, Diaz is struggling with plate discipline, as evidenced by his declining walk rate and rising strikeout rate. His swing mechanics suggest potential for above-average power, but his pitch recognition and zone awareness need improvement. Despite the concerns, his raw power and the potential to grow into his frame make him an intriguing Tier 2 prospect.
- Echedry Vargas (Rangers 19, SS) – Echedry Vargas, now in his third year of pro ball, has been a standout with consistent production. His strength and bat speed drive his pull-heavy approach, leading to high SLG numbers despite a tendency for high strikeout rates. Vargas has shown improvement as the season has progressed, and his power potential, coupled with above-average speed, adds significant value. Defensively, he’s better suited for second or third base, though he may see time at shortstop. His aggressive approach at the plate and ability to make hard contact suggest a high ceiling, but he’ll need to adapt to higher-level pitching.
- Yolfran Castillo (Rangers 17, SS) – Castillo, a highly-touted 2024 IFA signing, has quickly made a name for himself with advanced defensive skills and a strong feel for hitting. His swing is still developing, with notable swing-and-miss issues and a lack of current power, but he demonstrates impressive plate discipline and can hit to all fields. Castillo’s lean frame and ability to make consistent contact suggest significant future potential as he matures and adds strength. His advanced defensive abilities and promising bat make him a compelling prospect, though his current lack of power and swing refinement keep him in Tier 2.
- Braylin Morel (Rangers 18, OF) – Morel, a well-built 6’2″ outfielder, is known for his power potential and has shown improvement in his swing mechanics over the season. His uppercut swing has limitations but can deliver impressive results when pitchers make mistakes. Despite a generally raw profile and average athleticism, Morel’s physical tools and recent performance, including a lower strikeout rate and high SLG, suggest a high ceiling. His development will depend on further refinement of his swing and increased adaptability at the plate. He’s a high-risk, high-reward player with strong hobby appeal.
- Pablo Guerrero (Rangers 18, 1B/OF) – Pablo Guerrero, the more promising of the Guerrero half-brothers, has shown significant growth this year after a challenging DSL season. His power has started to shine with a solid SLG and a simple, effective swing. Though he struggles with pitch recognition and has a tendency to take low strikes, Guerrero’s strength and ability to make hard contact are notable. His defensive and baserunning abilities are limited, leading to significant time at DH. With a pedigree linked to his brother Vlad Jr., Guerrero’s power and hobby appeal make him a promising prospect, despite some ongoing developmental issues.
The 2024 Bowman Chrome Hobby and HTA Boxes offer something for every type of collector. Whether you’re chasing autographs, building a base set, or hunting for rare parallels, these boxes deliver a thrilling experience. With a strong checklist and the potential for big hits, they are a must-have for any serious baseball card collector.