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MLB rumors: Could this censure deter Yankees from inquiring about Bryce Harper?

 

The future landing spot for Bryce Harper has been discussed and dissected ad nauseam, but what if there was a new, little-ish twist?

FanRag Sports’ baseball writer Robert Murray recently texted with a top National League executive about the Washington Nationals’ slugger, and the conversation revolved around Harper’s value. But that’s not news — all of baseball knows the 25-year-old outfielder will be eligible for free agency this winter and land a contract worth north of $300 million. 

So, what’s the takeaway from Murray’s exchange with the NL executive?

Harper is overrated, and not worth the large sum of money he’s projected to garner:

Last week, I was asked whether Washington nationals superstar Bryce Harper was overrated. I gave my answer, then I received three text messages from a top National League executive with his answer:

Text one: “He’s simply overrated. The good ain’t worth the bad. He’s a losing player. Cares about himself more than the team. If I was in charge and had money, my team would not pursue him. We would use that money to sign 2-3 winning players.”

Text two: “He’s a losing player. I would not sign him. I would use that money to sign 2-3 winning players.”

Text three: “If he gets more than 10-years, $300 million, I’d be surprised. I would not give him 10 years period and certainly not at that AAV. He’s just not worth it. He’s a selfish, losing player.”

Those are some pretty strong words for a generational talent in Harper. But, to his dismay, 2018 hasn’t been a highlight season for him thus far. In 63 games (224 at-bats), Harper has a career-low .228 batting average and .216 BABIP, and his 22.3 strikeout percentage hasn’t been this high since 2014. Not the numbers any player wants in a contract year.

However, Harper still leads the National League in home runs (19) and walks (48). Plus, the Nationals (36-27) are currently in a first place tie with the Atlanta Braves in the NL East standings. So, the first half to what could be Harper’s last season in D.C. hasn’t all been sour. 

Harper and the Nationals open a two-game series with the Yankees (42-19) in the Bronx on Tuesday night. 

If you want to connect with Tom Hanslin, email him at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter @tomhanslin.