It would make sense if Bryce Harper wanted a fresh start after the way things have gone for the Washington Nationals this season, but the star outfielder insists he is happy the team chose not to move him at the trade deadline.
With rumors swirling throughout the week, Nationals GM Mike Rizzo said prior to Tuesday’s deadline that Harper was not going anywhere. Harper later revealed that Rizzo told him as much the night before, and the soon-to-be free agent said he is pleased with the result.
Bryce Harper said Mike Rizzo told him early yesterday he wouldn’t be traded. Appreciated that and again raved about their relationship.
— Mark Zuckerman (@MarkZuckerman) July 31, 2018
Harper “I’m glad to still be in this clubhouse.” Said Rizzo assured him he wasn’t going anywhere.
— Chelsea Janes (@chelsea_janes) July 31, 2018
The Nationals know there’s a decent chance they could lose Harper this winter, but they’re 5.5 games out of first place in the NL East division and believe they can still reach the playoffs. In the event — even if rare — that they do qualify for the postseason and make a deep run, that might help convince Harper to stay.
A report from earlier this week claimed the Nationals are having major clubhouse issues this season, but Harper seemed to refute that.
