I disagree with the take here, for a couple reasons.

First, college and high school cards of today's stars aren't very sought-after, whether that's Panini or Donruss Elite Extra Edition which is pretty much in the same vein. I just don't see any reason to expect the Panini cards of today's prospects to take a different trajectory.

Second, people just don't really want players in college or high school uniforms. That will always be looked at as less-desirable "pre-rookie" stuff.

And lastly, I think the uptick in the cards is a combination of a couple things - the beginning of the season, as you mentioned, is typically a time for interest in baseball cards to pick up. But I bet part of it has to do with the flippers and investors who are taking what they know about the Panini basketball products - highly-regarded, very sought-after - and misguidedly applying it to baseball products.

But while I disagree, I also respect your research and perspective - and hell, obviously you're the one putting the money where your mouth is, so more power to you. And really, if you're getting into these Panini cards for cheap, then even a moderate bump can return your investment exponentially. In general though, I think there'll just always be a ceiling on Panini baseball value.