Jonathan Papelbon Filed Grievance Against Nationals Over Bryce Harper Fight Suspension

Jonathan Papelbon filed a grievance against the Washington Nationals following his four-game suspension for his role in the dugout dustup with Bryce Harper. The closer was not paid during that period and incurred a salary loss of $284,000. Sources close to Papelbon say his main argument is that there’s no precedent for a team-issued suspension for such an incident.

A date for the hearing has not been set.

Papelbon’s decision to fight his punishment will do little to engender any good feelings with the organization or fan base. Luckily, he and Harper are “fine” and chat on the phone occasionally.

Putting this ugly chapter in the rearview mirror with contrition would be the logical public relations play here but it’s easy to see why Papelbon would explore his chosen avenue.

First, no one likes to lose over a quarter million dollars — especially when the denial of the money may be improper. This isn’t to paint him as some sort of heroic crusader for the MLBPA. Getting clarity on a team’s right to impose similar suspensions, though, is an important matter.

Also, considering how bad things are between Papelbon and the court of public opinion, does he really have much to lose? Especially if he’s expecting to be moved during the offseason?

All of that said, one could argue that sitting out four meaningless games without pay is a fairly small price to pay for going full WWE on a franchise player for a trivial reason.

[WEEI]

Image via USA Today Sports