Manfred disagrees with Harper's 'tired' barb

Rob Manfred reiterated his support Thursday over Bryce Harper's comments about unwritten rules in today's game, but the commissioner is taking issue with the reigning MVP's assertion that baseball has become "tired."

"I bet if he could have that word back maybe he wouldn't agree with it, but who knows," Manfred told Bob Nightengale of USA TODAY Sports. "I do agree with the sentiment expressed in the rest of his comments. I think this generation of players, just like the generations before, are going to define what the unwritten rules of the game are on the field."

In early March, the Washington Nationals superstar complained about how baseball's "code" prevents him and his peers from expressing themselves. In embracing his role as MLB's so-called "fun" ambassador, Harper then donned a satirical Donald Trump hat, used emoji-themed bat decals, and stole second base with gloves in his mouth. On Friday, Manfred expressed confidence that Harper and his peers can strike the balance between fun and respect.

"We set the written ones, but what is acceptable within those boundaries, players have always determined that. I think this generation should have the right to that. I think they will probably make a little different judgment than prior generations. I'm also 100 percent confident that whatever judgments they make will be respectful of the game."