Bryce Harper Accused of Cheating as Alarmed Blue Jays Announcer Spots Phillies Star Breaking MLB Rules on Camera

During a game heavily tilted in the Blue Jays’ favor, broadcaster Joe Siddall may have caught something that uncovers a potential MLB rule violation.

In a now-viral post on X, Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper was seen spraying pine tar on the barrel of his bat in the dugout.

Blue Jays broadcaster Joe Siddall catches Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper conspicuously spraying the barrel of his bat with pine tar in the dugout. MLB Rule1.10(c) States 18 inches from the knob is the max. pic.twitter.com/Qze4umZdlH

— Blue Jays Central (@BlueJayCentral) June 5, 2025

Apparently, he sprayed the substance far up the barrel of his bat. Adding to your belief, MLB Rule 1.10(c) cites that pine tar may not extend more than 18 inches from the knob of the bat.

If sprayed beyond the limit, it can potentially result in the bat being removed from play. Let’s say if Harper did in fact exceed the 18-inch rule, it can spark scrutiny over oversight and consistency in upholding regulations.

The pine tar is often used by players for improving grip; however, excessive use, that is, above the limit, raises questions. Let’s see what unfolds next. Stay tuned!

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