2015-MLB-Postseason-LogoScouting the Rookies of the 2015 MLB American League Wild Card – As temperatures begin to cool and the landscape’s colors start to change, when it comes to baseball, that can mean only one thing – MLB Playoff time is here! This year’s post-season is loaded with rookie players, some of whom have been highly touted prospects.

The journey to the Fall Classic begins tomorrow with a first time match-up between the Houston Astros (86-76)and the New York Yankees (87-75). This will be followed on Wednesday when divisional rivals, the Chicago Cubs (97-65) and the Pittsburgh Pirates (98-64) meet.

Here is a look at some of the higher profile rookies, on each of the teams playing in the A.L. Wild Card, along with their key 2015 autographed baseball cards. Tomorrow we’ll examine rookies from the N.L. match-up.

Scouting the Rookies of the 2015 MLB American League Wild Card – New York Yankees

Luis Severino – RHP

Severino was signed as an international free agent out of the Dominican Republic in 2012. Since his call-up in early August, Severino has appeared in 11 games posting a record of 5-3 with a 2.89 ERA. He held opposing hitters to a .229 BA with a 1.20 WHIP. Although he is not taking the hill tomorrow night, if the Yankees win, just how far they advance could hinge on Severino’s future starts.

Key 2015 Autograph Cards: Bowman Chrome, Bowman Inception, Bowman Chrome Top 100

Greg Bird – 1B

Bird was selected by the Yankees in the fifth round of the 2011 MLB Draft. Bird got in 157 at-bats after being called-up on August 13th. Despite striking out 53 times, he still managed to impress with 11 home runs, 31 RBI and a respectable .261 BA. He has made the most of his opportunity and is proving he deserves to stay.

Key 2015 Autograph Cards: Onyx Platinum Elite

Scouting the Rookies of the 2015 MLB American League Wild Card – Houston Astros

Carlos Correa – SS

Baseball fans and collectors alike have been loving Correa this year. Since making his debut, June 8th he has racked-up an impressive stat line. The former number one overall draft pick in 2012 finished the season hitting .279 with 22 home runs, 68 RB and 14 stolen bases.

Key 2015 Autograph Cards: Topps Heritage High Number, Panini Immaculate Baseball

Preston Tucker – LF

Tucker was also selected by the Astros in the same year as Correa (2012) although much later (219th overall). Who would have known at the time that the two young prospects would contribute so significantly to the Astro’s post-season fortune. Since being called-up on May 7th, he has tallied 13 home runs, 33 RBI, and 35 runs scored.

Tucker has no autographed cards from 2015 Topps products to date but that could change quickly. Look for him in 2015 Topps Update, most likely. However, he does have some nice cards in Topps Heritage High Number and Bowman Chrome.

Key 2015 Autograph Cards: N/A to Date

GTS Distribution

Related Posts