The phrase came after Manfred addressed baseball economic issues, hinting at the possibility of a salary cap, something the players’ union strongly opposes, calling it a form of “institutionalized collusion”. Although Manfred did not explicitly use the term “salary cap”, the mere suggestion generated a strong reaction from Harper, who expressed that the players “are not afraid to lose an entire season” if MLB insists on imposing salary limits. Veteran outfielder Nick Castellanos intervened to calm the situation and, according to sources, the meeting continued, ending with a handshake between Harper and Manfred. However, Harper ignored the commissioner’s calls the next day.“If you want to talk about that, you can get the h— out of our clubhouse.”
The meeting took place amidst a growing climate of distrust between players and the league, with the expiration date of the collective bargaining agreement set for December 1, 2026. Some owners have begun to push for a salary cap system, which raises tensions and revives the specter of a possible work stoppage for the 2027 season. MLB has not yet confirmed whether it will formally propose a salary cap, but Manfred’s language, including the mention of an anticipated “lockout,” has been received with suspicion by the players. Source: ESPN.“It was pretty intense, definitely passionate,” Castellanos told ESPN.
“They both defended their point. Bryce has been like that since he was 15. I wasn’t surprised.”
“Nobody wants a work stoppage in baseball. Not the players, nor the league,” concluded Castellanos.
