Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper reportedly had a confrontation with MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, even telling him to get out of the team’s clubhouse.

Jeff Passan reveals details about the confrontation

This was reported by ESPN.com insider Jeff Passan. The Phillies player went face-to-face with Manfred during the commissioner’s visit to the team last week. According to sources close to the altercation, Harper told him, “Get out of our clubhouse” if he wanted to discuss the possible implementation of a salary cap.

The report also indicates that Manfred responded by refusing to leave, during what was one of his regular visits to team clubhouses each season to talk with players. However, this meeting lasted no more than an hour, with Harper exploding near the end.

There is concern about a possible strike in 2027 after a new collective bargaining agreement was reached through 2026, following a work stoppage in 2022. Team owners want to implement a salary cap to curb player salaries, though players strongly oppose limiting their earnings. There is also an aim to reduce spending across different organizations.

Harper, a 14-season veteran with the Washington Nationals and Philadelphia Phillies, has been a two-time MVP, four-time Silver Slugger winner, and eight-time All-Star. This season, he is batting .262 with 15 home runs and 43 RBIs, and has an OPS+ of 136 with the Phillies, who hold a 60-45 record.