Legend has it that Bryce Harper could hit six home runs between the time Cool Papa Bell turned off the lights and got in bed. The hype-machine's a runnin', and there was talk that the 19-year-old super-prospect could start the season in the major leagues, with the Nationals hoping he could channel his inner Mel Ott.

But a calf strain might ruin the narrative. From Jon Heyman:

Slugging wunderkind Bryce Harper, 19, admitted today he doubts he can make the Nationals after missing a few key games with a calf issue. "Probably not,'' he said in answer to a question about whether he can still has a chance to be picked to go north with the team.

So instead of doing what most 19-year-olds are doing right now -- getting ready for graduation or planning spring-break shenanigans -- Harper will likely go to triple-A and wait for the call. This is probably better for the Nationals, both on the field and for future balance sheets, but it sure isn't as much fun for us.