Bryce Harper skips NatsFest fan event
Washington Nationals left fielder Bryce Harper rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run against the San Francisco Giants in game one of the 2014 NLDS playoff baseball game, Oct 3, 2014. Harper was a no-show at NatsFest fan event on Saturday, Dec. 13. (Brad Mills/USA TODAY Sports file)
The Washington Nationals are disappointed that outfielder Bryce Harper was a no-show for the team’s NatsFest fan event on Saturday.
The Major League Baseball Players Association filed a grievance on Harper’s behalf over whether he can void the terms of the final season of his five-year, $9.9 million contract he signed when he was drafted in 2011.
“We’re disappointed he’s not here, but he chose not to be here because of the grievance,” general manager Mike Rizzo said.
If the case is not settled, an arbitrator hearing could occur next week.
Outfielder Jayson Werth, who was recently convicted of reckless driving and sentenced to 10 days in jail, met with fans but did not speak to reporters.
“That was my decision,” Rizzo said.
