CREDIT: BLOWOUTCARDS.COM
Bryce Harper (left) and Mike Trout at the 2012 All-Star Game in Kansas City

Two of the most exciting players to watch in the MLB are Bryce Harper, a 19-year-old from Las Vegas and Mike Trout, a 21-yearold from Vineland, New Jersey. These are my top two candidates for the 2012 National and American rookie of the year, but who is number one in the MLB?

The argument:
Mike Trout, the centre fielder for the Los Angeles Angels, had some experience last year playing in 39 games towards the end of the season. This year, Trout has dominated the American League in batting average (.329), runs (116), stolen bases (45) and on base percentage (.957). More impressive is that Trout began the 2012 season with the Salt Lake Bees of the Class AAA Pacific Coast League before getting the call to join the Angels on April 28.

Like Trout, Washington Nationals outfielder Bryce Harper got his opportunity by being called up from the minors on April 27. All eyes were on the youngster. Why? He is the most touted prospect in MLB history since Stephen Strasburg, a starting pitcher with the Nationals. Only 19 years of age and he fits right in with the rest of his team. How many 19-year-olds can say that? His numbers are not overpowering, considering he has only played 123 games this year, but his 19 homeruns, 50 RBIs and .263 batting average is outstanding for any player in the MLB, not just a teenager.

Who's better? Trout has my vote. Trout has been a leader in the stats column and will receive some votes for American League most valuable player and should run away with the rookie of the year award. While Harper's Nationals will be in the playoffs, Trout's Angels have been a disappointment as they were expected to challenge for a playoff spot, but Trout has been the team's saving grace, helping the team recover from an atrocious start.

Who has the most potential?
Harper — he's a professional on and off the field, talented, a utility player who I think can play any position. An All-Star at the age of 19, Harper will see a lot more All- Star games by the end of his baseball career.

This is really a toss-up, because you never really know for sure what the future holds, for all we know an injury could significantly affect these two young prospects from reaching their full potential.

All in all, both players will be nominees for the rookie of the year in their respected league; we should enjoy the show that these two young prospects put on for us over the next decade, I know I will.