Bryce Harper

Bryce Harper hits leadoff for first time since 2013

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 2:44 p.m. ET

WASHINGTON (AP) Bryce Harper is hitting leadoff for the Washington Nationals for the first time since 2013.

The five-time All-Star and 2015 NL MVP leads the major leagues with 38 walks - eight of them intentional - but entered Tuesday's game against Pittsburgh in a 5-for-35 slump. He has not had an extra-base hit since April 16.

''Last night I spoke to Harp and I just came to the conclusion: `Why not?''' Washington manager Dave Martinez said. "He's a little frustrated and, hopefully, he gets some more pitches to hit.''

Harper led off 16 times in 2013, his second major league season.

''You lead off one time in a game, and every other at-bat it really doesn't matter,'' Harper said.

He leads the NL with a .458 on-base percentage but is frustrated with his walks.

''Yeah, at 25 years old you want to hit the baseball,'' Harper said.

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Bryce Harper

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