Considering how much hype Bryce Harper has received despite being 17, it’s only fitting that he’d want a pretty big contract. Throw in the fact that he’s represented by Scott Boras, and, well, are we really surprised to read this report?
The Cost Of Hype: Bryce Harper Wants Record Signing Bonus
Via Jon Heyman
Word going around the game is that the country’s consensus top amateur player, the already legendary 17-year-old slugging catcher Bryce Harper, who is being advised by Scott Boras, will seek to break last year’s record $15.67 million bonus set by Stephen Strasburg after Harper is selected at or near the top of next month’s draft.
Cue shock and anger. Then again, like I said before, we really shouldn’t be surprised.
Think of it this way: considering all the attention Harper has received, why wouldn’t he try to go for a record contract? Boras or no Boras, it would be foolish for anyone representing Harper to advocate anything less. So while it might seem preposterous for a 17-year old to demand that much money, he’s only doing what he should.
The real issue is on the Nationals end. Last year, they took until the last day possible to sign Strasburg. Two years ago, they couldn’t sign Aaron Crow, their first-round pick. Both of those guys were college players who had less of a learning curve than Harper will. If the Nats were skittish about signing two college pitchers, how will they react to having to break the bank for a high school catcher? Harper’s got all the hype, but he’s no sure thing.
But then again, this is what happens when you get the number one pick in two straight drafts with two highly-touted prospects. I’m sure most teams would trade positions with the Nationals in a heartbeat.
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