The Washington Nationals, who have been eliminated from the postseason race, weren't done swinging Sunday.

During the eighth inning of a game against the Philadelphia Phillies (who were supposed to be the worst team in the league this year), the Nationals' star outfielder Bryce Harper and their "lightning-rod" closer Jonathan Papelbon got into a scuffle in the dugout after Harper's fly out.

Upon the outfielder's return to the dugout, Papelbon told him to "run that out," according to the Washington Post, to which Harper said, "Let's go."

That's when Papelbon charged at Harper, grabbed him by the neck and threw his back toward the wall before the two were broken up by teammates.

Harper went to the tunnel and didn't return to the game.

Papelbon gave up a home run and was booed by the crowd before being pulled, according to the Post. He apologized, while Harper shrugged it off, comparing it to a fight between brothers.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Braves president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos has noted in the past there’s value in spending dollars rather than surrendering young talent. (Hyosub Shin/AJC)

Credit: Hyosub Shin/AJC

Featured

Ja’Quon Stembridge, shown here in July at the Henry County Republican Party monthly meeting, recently stepped from his position with the Georgia GOP. (Jenni Girtman for the AJC)

Credit: Jenni Girtman