The Washington Nationals appeared to be headed for a grievance hearing with star outfielder Bryce Harper over his contract, but the two sides agreed on an extension to avoid that fate. The Nationals released a statement on Monday evening declaring that a deal had been reached.
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"We are pleased to have reached an agreement today with Bryce Harper," read the statement. "This is a fair agreement that benefits both sides. We look forward to seeing Bryce on the field this spring and working towards a 2015 World Series Championship."
The MLBPA had filed a grievance arguing that Harper should be able to void the final year of the contract he signed when he was drafted. The hearing would have taken place today if the Nationals and Harper had not agreed on a deal.
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The agreement comes just days after Harper chose not to attend the NatsFest fan festival, prompting general manager Mike Rizzo to say that he was "disappointed" in Harper.
Harper's new contract is for two years and $7.5 million. There was speculation that the Nationals might be gearing up to eventually part with Harper by running the risk of antagonizing him by fighting him over the new deal. While reaching an agreement without the need of an arbitrator will quiet those questions for the time being, it is still curious that the team has not attempted to lock up Harper with a lucrative long-term contract like the Angels did with Mike Trout.
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