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

Atlanta Braves pitcher Bryce Elder (55) delivers against the the Los Angeles Angels in the fourth inning of a game Thursday, July 3, 2025 at Truist Park. (Daniel Varnado/For the Atlanta Journal-Constitution)

Credit: Daniel Varnado/For the Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Featured

UPS driver Dan Partyka delivers an overnight package. As more people buy more goods online, the rapid and unrelenting expansion of e-commerce is causing real challenges for the Sandy-Springs based company. (Bob Andres/AJC 2022)

Credit: TNS