Mastersball

For all the media and fans who believe that Bryce Harper is the next Babe Ruth, here's how you get from Bryce to the Babe in only seven (7) moves.

- Bryce Harper's teammate on the 2012 Washington Nationals is Adam LaRoche.

-In LaRoche's 2004 rookie season with the Braves, he was a teammate of the venerable (not Venable) Julio Franco.

- Franco made his first MLB appearance with the 1982 Phillies, where I'll wager he learned the ropes from veteran Pete Rose.

- "Charlie Hustle" was a rookie with the Reds in 1963 when Joe Nuxhall was a 15-game winner.

- "The Ol' Left-Hander" was the youngest major league player ever when he pitched in a game for the Reds at age 15 in 1944 and the LF on that team was Gee Walker.

- Walker played for the 1931 Tigers with a back-up Catcher named Johnny Grabowski.

- Grabowksi had 223 AB's and zero home runs for the 1927 Yankees, when his teammate, Babe Ruth, hit 60 homers.

So, maybe it isn't as much of a reach as we thought. With Harper on his way to the Hall of Fame, let's speculate on which current players have what it takes for entry into Cooperstown - and which of their cards to collect.

Alex Rodriguez (SS,3B) - Despite his admission to using PED's earlier in his career, A-Rod's numbers are off the charts with over 600 HR's and a lifetime .301 BA. His rookie cards are from 1994 and the best is from SP, with a book price of $40-$80. Other brands can be had for less than $20.

Mariano Rivera (RP) - The best closer ever with over 600 saves and incredible postseason stats. His 1992 Bowman Rookie Card actually came out three years prior to his MLB debut and has a current value of $30-$60.

Albert Pujols (1B) - Seems to be adjusting to the AL and the pressure of his massive contract. He has played 11 seasons with 445 HR's and a .328 BA. His rookie cards are from 2001 and the version from Upper Deck is $30-$60.

Derek Jeter (SS) - The Yankee Captain reached the 3,000 hit plateau in 2011 and is even admired by Yankee haters. His rookie cards are from 1993 and the best is from SP with a price range of $75-$150, but many other brands are available in the $25 range.

Ivan Rodriguez (C) - Just retired, "Pudge" has the longevity that HOF voters love, playing 21 seasons at the toughest position with multiple Gold Gloves, 300+ HR's and over 2,800 hits. There are numerous rookie cards from 1991 and the one from Ultra Update is a bargain at less than $10.

Ichiro Suzuki (OF) - The Japanese star didn't even start his MLB career until age 27 and has over 2,400 hits and a .326 BA in 11 seasons. There are multiple rookie cards from 2001 in the $15 range.

Chipper Jones (3B) - 2012 will be the last season for one of the great switch-hitters. He has overcome numerous injuries to post some impressive numbers over the last 18 seasons (all with the Braves) including 2,600+ hits, 450+ HR's and a .304 BA. Even though it isn't officially his rookie card, the 1992 Bowman is a nice issue for about $10.

Vladimir Guerrero (OF, DH) - Does he warrant consideration? 16 seasons with almost 2,600 hits, 449 HR's and a .318 BA is very impressive. You want his 1995 Bowman's Best card for $20-$25.

Jim Thome (1B, DH) - Reached the 600 HR club in 2011. His reputation with the media and fans will work in his favor. His 1991 Bowman rookie card is only $5.

Miguel Cabrera (OF, 3B, 1B) - Still on the sunny side of 30, but look at the numbers through nine seasons - 277 HR's, 984 RBI's and a .317 BA. Look for his $20 rookie card from 2000 Topps Traded.

Who else is on your list? Todd Helton, Roy Halladay, Lance Berkman, Michael Young or your favorite?