Bryce Harper is known for his quick reactions when provoked. He has an intense passion and will not think twice about charging the mound or confronting an opponent. The Phillies star has had several fiery instances, but one unforgettable moment was with Hunter Strickland.
In 2017, the Giants were playing the Nationals, and MLB fans witnessed a fight to remember when Strickland intentionally drilled Harper. Many believed Strickland was on a revenge mission since Harper cranked a two-run blast in the NLDS in 2014. After a pitch hit him, Harper rushed toward the Giants pitcher and smashed his helmet to the ground.
In hardly a minute, the benches were clear as members from both teams rushed to intervene. Jeff Samardzija was keen to land a punch on Bryce Harper when his teammate Mike Morse got in the way. Samardzija collided with Morse and failed to land his punch on Harper.
Remember Hunter Strickland? He is on the Angels active roster and could face Bryce Harper for the first time in almost 5 years during this series.
— Phillies Tailgate (@PhilsTailgate) April 29, 2024
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The collision caused Morse a concussion that ended his baseball career. Morse was about to retire, but the unexpected collision forced him to quit. Morse literally saved Bryce Harper from Samardzija’s blow. Harper, in return, thanked Morse for coming in front of him after the incident.
“I texted Mikey Mo afterward and said, thank you for getting in front of me. I don’t know what would have happened, but just the way Samardzija came out there, he saw blood for sure. I really haven’t kept in contact with him much after that, but I’ll always remember what he did for me,” Bryce Harper said.
Bryce Harper Received A Four-Game Suspension After The Brawl
Bryce Harper stood his ground and fought Strickland as he walked to the dugout without injuring himself. However, the star slugger received a four-game suspension for charging the mound and exchanging fists.
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Strickland’s punishment was slightly harsh, as he received a six-game suspension. Strickland didn’t get hurt, but Morse took the most damage. Morse later stated that it was a shame that his last game had to be ironic.
However, he took it in a positive way and enjoyed his retirement. Harper and Strickland’s fight is undoubtedly an unforgettable one in the history of MLB. On the news front, Juan Soto has signed with the New York Mets to a record breaking $765 million deal.
Also Read: When Miguel Cabrera Was Unhappy With His Unforgettable Suspension That Involved The Yankees
