Bryce Harper had a memorable opening day this season, but he does not have a special memento from the milestone game.
The Washington Nationals outfielder homered in his first two at-bats of the game and accounted for his team’s only runs in a 2-0 win over the Miami Marlins. Not only was his performance that day a special one, but it was even more meaningful because it his first opening day; Harper started off last season in the minors and did not make his MLB debut until April 28.
Well the Nationals or MLB must have grabbed Harper’s jersey after the game, because it was sold in an auction on the team’s website. Harper wasn’t too thrilled about that.
They just take my jersey away from me and don’t ask if I want it or anything! First opening day! Jersey gone! #MLB twitter.com/Bharper3407/st…
— Bryce Harper (@Bharper3407) April 18, 2013
I hope all the money goes to charity and not something wrong! Charities need it way more! #Jersey twitter.com/Bharper3407/st…
— Bryce Harper (@Bharper3407) April 18, 2013
Even if the money does go to charity, isn’t that something that the player should be consulted about first? Some players like collecting memorabilia, and a keepsake like a game-worn jersey from a first opening day seems like something a player should have a right to claim first.
H/T DC Sports Bog
