Harper avoids arbitration with 1-year, $13.625M deal
Bryce Harper's down season didn't hurt his bank account.
The Washington Nationals superstar avoided arbitration a second straight year by agreeing to a one-year deal Friday that's worth a reported $13.625 million, according to ESPN's Buster Olney.
The large dollar figure represents a raise of more than $8 million for Harper, who made just $5 million in 2016 while playing as the reigning National League MVP.
Harper came into last season with sky-high expectations after his monster 2015 season earned him the award. But the 24-year-old struggled to repeat his numbers from a year ago; his slash line dipped to .243/.373/.441 while his home-run total was almost cut in half, from 42 to 24. He also battled injuries, including a neck issue that dogged him in August.
Still, despite his personal struggles, Harper drew a team-high 108 walks and led the Nationals with 21 stolen bases. His contributions helped the Nationals return to the playoffs after a one-year absence.
Harper is scheduled to reach free agency following the 2018 season, and he's reportedly asking for a deal in the area of 10 years and $400 million - a contract Washington has apparently balked at giving him when the time comes.
The Nationals also avoided arbitration with right-hander Tanner Roark, catcher Derek Norris, and third baseman Anthony Rendon.