Debate: Harper or Heyward?

Bryce Harper (2012 debut) and Jason Heyward (2010 debut) are two of the most hyped prospects to quickly reach the major leagues in recent memory. Both have had massive expectations placed on them, and each has enjoyed a relative amount of success over their short careers. The sky is the limit for these two studs, but...

Which player would you rather have for the rest of their careers?

Argument for Harper:

1. High Ceiling

Harper is 19 years old, and he is already showing that he can perform well against the best baseball players on the planet. His rookie season has been up and down, but there have definitely been flashes of greatness.

2. Hustle and Flow

Say what you want about the kid, but you cannot knock his hustle. He goes hard every single play in the field and at the plate, but he stays within the flow of the game and his team.

3. Body Development

It is crazy to think that Harper’s body will eventually grow into that massive swing. Whenever that happens, make sure to keep your head on a swivel if you are in outfield seats.

Argument for Heyward:

1. High Ceiling

He is only 22 years old, and he already is going through his third MLB season. He has gotten over his sophomore slump, and he looks to continue improving.

2. Building Block

With the cornerstone of the modern Atlanta Braves franchise retiring (Chipper Jones), the Braves organization will need a new franchise player. It looks like the Braves feel that Heyward is that guy.

3. Five-tool Capability

He was touted as a five-tool prospect, and he has not disappointed. Some of his tools are stronger than others, but he seems to balance them all very well.

My Pick: Harper:

1. Higher Ceiling

As good as I think that Heyward will be over his career, I think Harper has the ability and potential to be one of the best players of his generation. If you don’t believe me, check out Harper’s and Griffey Jr.’s rookie stats and seem how eerily similar they are.

2. Age

Of course, Heyward cannot control how old he is. However, if I can only pick one of these guys, I have to take the one that is three years younger. Simply, I could use his production for longer (baring any unforeseen injuries).

3. Mental Toughness

Heyward has had times when it looked like his mental struggles were affecting his physical performance. Even with some of Harper’s mental lapses that we have seen this season, we have to take into consideration the unbelievable amount of pressure that he has been under since he was a (younger) teenager. He does not look like he will fold under immense pressure.

Make sure to tweet @MLBFanCave and @KyleOKC using the hash tag #CaveDebate with your pick.