BRYCE HARPER
What Bryce Harper has done in his first five seasons is legendary. An NL Rookie of the Year award and a unanimous MVP in 2015. Add four trips to the All-Star Game and a Silver Slugger to the mix and Cooperstown will call when the time is right.
We know he has two years before the siren song of free agency calls. Even if he goes that way that does not mean he leaves Washington. Still, with the potential of seven amazing years in DC on his resume, the chances of him making the Hall and wear the “Curly W” are high.
His career Wins Above Replacement of 21.5 is 17th-best in his era. When Baseball-Reference compares you favorably to Frank Robinson, Mickey Mantle and Ken Griffey Jr at 23, you must do something right.
For all Harper has done on the field, it is hard to believe he starts this season at 24. His colleagues at that age are mostly still riding the bus in the minors. His prime years are still a few seasons away.
If his health remains good, there is no question Harper will have a resume at the end of his playing days earning him his special day. With charisma, marketability and a flair for the dramatic, he is one of the few players in the sport who a casual fan can recognize.
Imagine if he stays here. What a show.