The initial group of autograph guests for the 2012 National at the Baltimore Convention Center, Aug. 1-5, has been announced by Tristar Productions.

Baseball is well represented with appearances confirmed by Hall of Famers Cal Ripken Jr., Jim Palmer, Brooks Robinson, Frank Robinson, Eddie Murray, Reggie Jackson, Rickey Henderson, Jim Rice, Carlton Fisk, Fergie Jenkins, Bob Gibson, Lou Brock, Ozzie Smith, Bruce Sutter and Whitey Herzog. Plus, special appearances will be made by John Smoltz (1996 NL Cy Young & 3,000 K Club) and members of the Big Red Machine: Pete Rose, Johnny Bench, Joe Morgan, Tony Perez, George Foster, Cesar Geronimo, Dave Concepcion and Ken Griffey Sr.

The last three jockeys to win the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing will be making rare public autograph appearances: Ron Turcotte (Secretariat '73), Jean Cruguet (Seattle Slew '77) and Steve Cauthen (Affirmed '78). Rounding out the initial list are Alexander Ovechkin (two-time NHL MVP) and NFL Hall of Famer Randy White. Many more players to be announced, including big name football stars in the coming weeks.

Admission tickets and VIP Packages for the 33rd National will go on sale on the National's website by mid-March. More information coming soon.