After making comments during his introductory press conference on Saturday alluding to Trout, Harper took things a step further on Tuesday when he spoke with SportsRadio 94 WIP.
"If you don't think I'm gonna call Mike Trout to come to Philly in 2020, you're crazy," the newly acquired superstar said.
Trout, a native of Vineland, N.J., is in the midst of a six-year, $144 million deal with the Angels. He's due to become a free agent following the 2020 season.
Harper inked a 13-year deal with the Phillies last week worth $330-million.
Per multiple reports, Angels general manager Billy Eppler told the Los Angeles Times on Tuesday that the club has spoken with Major League Baseball about Harper's comments and question if it constitutes as tampering.
Harper made it clear that he spoke with Trout throughout the offseason, primarily in an effort to learn more about Philadelphia.
Vineland is approximately 45 miles away from Philadelphia and Trout is an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan, owning season tickets. He's already connected to the region. The Angels are interested in offering a record-breaking contract, but it's unclear if he is committed to staying out west.
Though there is no clear penalty in Major League Baseball, it's frowned upon for players to openly recruit and talk of ongoing contract negotiations. That said, the comments certainly earned Harper some additional points with the Philadelphia fan-base.
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