Absurd news of the day:
Superstar outfielder Bryce Harper on Thursday signed a record $330 million, 13-year contract with the Philadelphia Phillies. Negotiations on Harper's free agency after seven years with the Washington Nationals had dragged on into the early days of spring training. The total deal exceeds the contract of Manny Machado, the other prize free-agent slugger this off-season, who last week signed a 10-year, $300 million contract with the San Diego Padres, making Harper's deal the largest in baseball history even though he'll make less per year than Machado. Harper's agreement reportedly includes a no-trade clause and no opt-outs, meaning Harper could be in Philadelphia for the rest of his career.
13 years??!!??!!??
With a no-trade clause!!??!!??!!??
And no opt-outs??!!??!!??!!
You stupid Phillies!!
So much $$$ tied up for 1.3 decades.
The guy is currently 26. This contract will take him to age 39, which is at or very near at retirement age for a ball player.
I'm gonna make a prediction: in 2032 when this contract terminates, I'm going to venture a guess that the Phillies organization will be very, very, VERY relieved.
Grace & Peace & Love to you all -
Matt