Just two days ago, Bryce Harper and the Philadelphia Phillies became part of the Washington Nationals clinching a playoff spot. Then on Wednesday night, the Nationals won again 5-2. Moreover, Bryce Harper got two hits and raised his average to .260.
However, Harper is unhappy about a fan heckling experience that took place during the game. Keep in mind, this comes from his former home crowd. Specifically, Harper said the fan ‘crossed the line’.
Jim Salisbury who covers the Nationals for NBC Sports has more:
Bryce Harper said Washington fans crossed the line with their heckling in eighth inning. He was not happy. Said he was eager to get back to Philly and the great fans there
— Jim Salisbury (@JimSalisbury215) September 26, 2019
Without question, ballplayers hear it all. Especially if you’re Harper – you have likely heard the worst of things while in the outfield. So it makes you wonder when you read his quote, exactly what the fan said to get under his skin so badly.
“They were fine all game, talking about myself and things like that,” Harper said. “I get it everywhere I go. That’s nothing new. But the last two innings, it’s just not right. It’s not right.”
Furthermore, a reply to Salisbury elaborates some on what took place. Reportedly, the fan got in touch with another blogger, and felt badly about the incident.
In case you were interested, the fan got in touch with me: pic.twitter.com/k48FOtrAT8
— Eric Nathan (@BarstoolNate) September 26, 2019
Finally, a little sleuth work details what happened. Harper’s wife tweeted this in reply to Salisbury. Unfortunately, it sounds like the fan spoke unkindly about Harper’s son. Keep in mind, he became a father this season; and his child is under a year old.
https://twitter.com/kayyharper8/status/1177172941139828736?s=20
Indeed, Harper has every reason to be upset. Fans must understand that just because they buy a ticket, doesn’t give them the right to cross a line and insult a player’s family. Moreover, there’s a line that you cannot cross; and as adults we all know where that line exists.
Finally, extreme kudos to Harper and his family for handling this incident with class. Whether you like Harper or not, this is one of the ugly sides of sports. For instance, just make fun of his batting average or the fact he has to live in Philadelphia instead of somewhere beautiful like Los Angeles a majority of the year.
We are only kidding, Bryce.
