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Nats GM goes after anonymous exec who ripped Bryce Harper: 'It's gutless'

If you’re going to fire off harsh quotes about Washington Nationals slugger Bryce Harper, you better be willing to put your name on them. If you don’t, Harper’s general manager might have some strong words for you.

Nationals GM Mike Rizzo fired back at the anonymous baseball exec who called Harper a “losing player.” Rizzo didn’t hold back, using an expletive — among other phrases — to describe the comments.

What happened?

An anonymous National League executive ripped Harper in comments to Robert Murray of FRSBaseball.com. He called Harper overrated, selfish and a “losing player.”

While the Nats were taking batting practice Tuesday, Rizzo addressed those comments with some strong language.

What did Rizzo say?

Rizzo started out by explaining the many ways in which he thought Harper was a winner. Rizzo cited all of Harper’s accomplishments — including his Rookie of the Year award, All-Star appearances, MVP award and playoff appearances. He also mentioned Harper has been great for the community in D.C.

After Rizzo was done defending Harper, he turned his sights on the anonymous exec. Rizzo wasn’t a big fan of that exec saying those things while remaining anonymous, according to the Washington Post.

“And these anonymous quotes from these unnamed sources like a National League executive, it’s cowardly, it’s chicken [expletive], and it’s gutless.”

He then tore apart everyone involved, calling the entire story “sensationalism” and “yellow journalism.”

What happens next?

Probably nothing. This isn’t wrestling. The anonymous NL exec isn’t going to suddenly reveal his or her self to the world. This is not going to lead to a cage match between that person and Rizzo.

Rizzo defended his player. Both the NL exec and Harper should remain quiet on the issue. That should wrap up the issue for now.

Mike Rizzo fired back at an anonymous NL exec who ripped Bryce Harper. (AP Photo)
Mike Rizzo fired back at an anonymous NL exec who ripped Bryce Harper. (AP Photo)

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Chris Cwik is a writer for Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at christophercwik@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter! Follow @Chris_Cwik

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