MLB lockout ruins Phillies’ Bryce Harper MVP celebration

The MLB lockout forces the Phillies to take down Bryce Harper’s MVP banner at Citizens Bank Park in accordance with federal labor laws

The holiday decorations at Citizens Bank Park just got a little less festive: Bryce Harper‘s MV3 banner hangs no more.

Thanks to the MLB lockout which began late last night, the MV3 banner – which was hung at the ballpark less than one week ago – has been taken down. In accordance with federal labor law, MLB and individual teams need to remove as much content (in real life and online) that has player names, images, or likenesses.

Ergo, bye-bye banner.

Until the lockout is over, teams cannot trade major leaguers or sign free agents. In fact, owners and executives are not even allowed to be in contact with players. The Phillies managed to make a few roster moves and sign reliever Corey Knebel at the last minute, but now they’re trapped in limbo for however long the lockout lasts.

Harper had an incredible season that deserves to be celebrated. He led MLB in doubles, slugging, OPS, and OPS+, and won a Silver Slugger, Hank Aaron Award, and his second career MVP award.

While things like banners being put away may seem trivial at face value, it’s actually yet another way that the lockout insults the players whose talent and hard work keep the money flowing into the owners’ pockets.