modern-rookie-class-context

name	modern-rookie-class-context
description	Use when valuing a current-year rookie. Class strength affects all rookies' floor.

Modern Rookie Class Context

Strong rookie class lifts every rookie's floor; weak class compresses. Read class context before pricing.

Class strength signals

Strong class:

• Multiple top-3 draft picks with HOF projection
• Hype concentration in 1-2 players
• Bowman/Topps assigning prime slot numbers (#1, #10)
• Early MLB call-up timing concentrated in season's first half

Weak class:

• No projected superstar
• Dispersed talent (no top-3 standout)
• Late-call-up players (debut after September)

Recent reference classes

Strong: 2017 MLB (Acuña, Ohtani, Albies), 2020 MLB (Tatis Jr year), 2023 NFL (Stroud, Anderson, Carter) Weak: 2019 MLB rookies (no breakout HOFer), 2022 NFL rookie class (no clear star at QB)

Pricing impact

Strong class: floor for individual rookies +20-40%, ceiling +50-150%. Weak class: floor flat, ceiling -30%. Adjust comp data when comparing across years.

Where this fits in the X3 empire

Sniper tool runs class-strength adjustment on rookie price predictions.