Overview

• During his July 25 clubhouse visit, Commissioner Rob Manfred hinted at economic reforms and drew an unfiltered rebuke from Harper, who told him to “get the f--- out of our clubhouse.”
• The hourlong exchange ended with a handshake, yet Harper ignored Manfred’s follow-up calls the next day, highlighting strained communication.
• Multiple team owners have pushed for a hard salary cap to address widening payroll gaps, while the MLB Players Association vehemently opposes the measure.
• Harper warned that players “are not scared to lose 162 games,” signaling willingness to endure a full-season stoppage rather than accept a cap.
• With the 2022–26 CBA set to expire December 1, 2026, both sides are bracing for contentious negotiations that could trigger a lockout before the 2027 season.