Bryce Harper is not seeking motivation, but his recent comments reflect the weight of high expectations set around him. Speaking publicly in Clearwater for the first time since Phillies President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski emphasized Harper’s “elite” status, it was clear that the discourse from the end of the season still resonated with him.
Harper recalled the early days of his contract negotiations in 2019, emphasizing the commitment to keep discussions internal. He expressed disappointment that this principle was not upheld, noting, “When that didn’t happen, it kind of took me for a run a little bit.”
Despite his struggles in 2025, Harper’s tenure with the Phillies has largely been successful. Since joining the team, he has achieved a .912 OPS during the regular season and a remarkable 1.010 postseason OPS, alongside earning three Silver Sluggers and an MVP award. However, his performance in 2025 fell short of his expectations; he hit 27 home runs but noted that his overall numbers and postseason presence needed improvement.
In the National League Division Series against the Dodgers, Harper recorded a disappointing .600 OPS, contributing to a broader team struggle, where the trio of Harper, Trea Turner, and Kyle Schwarber combined for a mere .684 OPS. This collective performance illustrated a challenge the Phillies faced in the playoffs.
Looking ahead, Harper is shifting his focus from external judgments to necessary adjustments in his game. He acknowledged the need to improve his approach, particularly regarding pitch selection. His metrics highlight a growing tendency to chase pitches outside the strike zone, which can significantly impact his effectiveness at the plate. Harper commented on the importance of lineup protection, particularly in the cleanup spot, asserting that the performance of whoever occupies this position will affect how pitchers approach him.
As the regular season looms, Harper is looking forward to participating in the World Baseball Classic, a source of excitement for him. He expressed pride in representing the United States and mentioned his anticipation of playing alongside Aaron Judge.
To prepare for the upcoming season, Harper has adopted a more rigorous offseason training routine, including a unique treatment known as Extracorporeal Blood Oxygenation and Ozonation (EBOO). The aim is to enhance his durability, as he has struggled to consistently play 150 games in recent seasons, which can hinder his readiness for critical postseason matches.
While Harper is confident in his ability to deliver strong regular-season performances, he remains aware of the importance of performing when it matters most. The drive to secure victories in crucial moments remains a significant focus for him and the Phillies as they prepare for another competitive season.