2026 MLB Season Preview: Best Card Buys & Rookie Sleepers

This week on The Hobby Handbook, Clever Cuban Cards is joined by Jetbreakers Trent to break down everything you need to know ahead of the 2026 MLB season. But before we get to the baseball, we have to talk about Clever Cuban's horror story about ripping 2026 Topps Pristine (missing 5 autos in 4 boxes!) and the frustrating state of "insufficient evidence" claims when you get shorted. The duo also dives into the latest news at PSA regarding price increases and slower turnaround times, debating what this means for the bulk submission market and why Clever Cuban canceled his Collector's Club membership. Then, they shift gears to the diamond to preview the World Baseball Classic, identify Spring Training breakout candidates, and discuss which rookie sleepers you should be buying now—including names like Chase Burns, Christian Moore, and Jonah Tong. They also debate whether Pete Alonso to the Orioles is a buy or a bust and if Jackson Chourio can lead the Brewers deep into the playoffs. Finally, Alex and Trent go head-to-head in a "$10 Card Portfolio" challenge to pick their MVPs, Aces, and Top Prospects for the upcoming year on a budget. And, Alex shares his latest Arena Club trade, asking who won and who lost. If you're new to Arena Club, use promo code SCN to get 20% off your first slab pack. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices