The Washington Nationals and All-Star outfielder Bryce Harper have agreed to a two-year, $7.5 million deal, avoiding an arbitration hearing, according to multiple reports.
According to CBS Sports’ Jon Heyman, Harper is slated to make $2.5 million in the 2015 season and $5 million in 2016.
The two sides have been at odds over his contract this offseason, with a grievance hearing originally scheduled for Tuesday to settle whether Harper could opt out of his rookie contract and become eligible for salary arbitration. The sides were able to reach a settlement Sunday evening, the Washington Post reports.
Had an agreement not been reached, the situation could have gotten ugly, as this news comes two days after general manager Mike Rizzo said he was “disappointed” Harper did not attend the NatsFest fan festival on Saturday.
With injuries sidelining the 22-year-old for a good chunk of the 2014 season, Harper hit .273 with 13 home runs and 32 RBIs in 100 games.
The 2012 National League Rookie of the Year will be eligible for free agency after the 2018 season.
Thumbnail photo via Brad Mills/USA TODAY Sports Images
