Bryce Harper expressed his distress regarding recent trade rumors during an interview with Matt Gelb from The Athletic, describing the situation as “confused and upset.” Harper stated, “I have given my all to Philly from the start. Now there is trade talk? I made every effort to avoid this.” He emphasized his discomfort with the ongoing discussions surrounding his potential departure, recalling experiences with trade rumors during his time with the Washington Nationals.
In a wrap-up press conference held last week, Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski reflected on Harper’s 2025 performance, which he described as not quite reaching the elite status Harper had previously enjoyed. While these comments stirred the pot, Dombrowski insisted that Harper remains a critical part of the team’s future, stating emphatically, “Bryce Harper’s not getting traded.”
Harper’s frustration with Dombrowski’s remarks is compounded by a lack of communication from the front office, as he mentioned he has not heard from Dombrowski or Phillies managing partner John Middleton since the end of the season. Instead, Harper’s decision to forego an opt-out clause in his contract was a testament to his commitment to Philadelphia, a gesture that further highlights his dissatisfaction with the current rumors.
Throughout the 2025 season, Harper posted a batting line of .261/.357/.487 with 27 home runs and a 131 weighted runs created plus (wRC+), marking one of the lower outputs in his 14-year career. Even with that production, Dombrowski noted the inherent pressure of maintaining Harper’s elite status, drawing comparisons with fellow players as he tried to frame his comments positively.
Despite recognizing the wear and tear inherent in players as they age, Dombrowski underscored Harper’s talent and competitive drive, suggesting that he holds confidence in Harper’s ability to bounce back to top form. Dombrowski has since attempted to clarify his comments, ensuring both the media and Harper understand that the team values his contributions.
Harper’s agent, Scott Boras, expressed surprise that Dombrowski did not mention Harper’s wrist issues, which had impacted his play earlier in the season but acknowledged the overall sentiment surrounding the need for improved lineup protection for the star slugger in 2026. This adjustment could potentially lead to better pitch opportunities for Harper as the Phillies look to enhance their offensive strategy.
As Harper navigates these uncertainties, it remains evident that he is integral to the Phillies’ plans moving forward. He continues to be a central figure as the team gears up for another competitive season, and Dombrowski’s assertions that there are no plans to trade Harper should bring a sense of reassurance to fans and the player alike.