"I was pretty upset.. If I get fined, I'll pay for it" - When Bryce Harper fired back at umpire after getting ejected in Nationals' comeback win

Bryce Harper came into the league under a tremendous amount of pressure. He was expected to be the game's next best thing before even making his big-league debut with the Washington Nationals in 2012.

That was something that Harper was willing to live up to. He had elite talent and played the game with a ton of passion early in his career. However, that passion would cost him at times.

During a 2016 matchup against the Detroit Tigers, Harper faced his seventh career ejection. Nats' slugger Danny Espinosa was called out on strikes where much of the dugout erupted. Harper was the unlucky one to get tossed out of the crowd, and he was not too pleased afterward, via ESPN's Eddie Matz.

"Everybody was up on the steps, preaching about what they thought was going on. [Knight] kind of picked me and said, 'See you later.' I think my emotions showed that I was pretty surprised," said Harper.

Harper was surprised that he was picked out of the group to hit the showers early. However, he did get his money's worth after he found out he was being tossed.

"I was pretty upset. I think I was right to do that. Let him hear what I have to say, let him hear it again, and so what? Couple choice words. If I do [get fined], I do. I'll pay it. So I think it deserves to, you know, maybe he'll get fined, too" said Harper.

Harper missed out on his club's epic comeback win against Detroit. The Nats won the game 5-4 without their young leader.

Bryce Harper's temper has cost him quite a bit throughout his career

Philadelphia Phillies - Bryce Harper (Photo via IMAGN)

Bryce Harper has let his temper get the better of him throughout his career. He has been ejected 21 times, the most among active players, according to Fox Sports MLB.

His latest ejection came in May of this past season. During a game against the Colorado Rockies, Harper spiked his helmet in frustration after striking out and turning to home plate umpire Brian Walsh, questioning the strike zone.

Harper will likely see more ejections this year as he is one of the most passionate players the game has seen. Especially playing for a team like the Philadelphia Phillies who have looked like contenders the last few seasons.