The Philadelphia Phillies are generating headlines this week as they contemplate a significant change to their batting order that could dramatically affect Bryce Harper’s future role with the team. Manager Rob Thomson has revealed that he is considering moving Harper from the No. 3 position in the lineup, a role he has held for most of his career, and might even swap him with Kyle Schwarber.
During the team’s Hot Stove media session, Thomson hinted that he has various strategies in mind, which could involve adjusting Harper’s place in the batting lineup. “I’ve got to talk to the players about it, but you could see a change this year, flipping those guys around a little bit,” Thomson stated. When asked directly whether Harper might no longer hit third, he confirmed that a shift is indeed possible.
This potential change signifies more than just a simple lineup shuffle; it reflects an ongoing discussion regarding Harper’s performance and role in the team. The conversation gained traction after Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski made comments during an October press conference, stating that Harper had not delivered an “elite season” as he had in the past. This sentiment was further exacerbated when Harper expressed that he felt “hurt” by the remarks.
In December, Harper took to TikTok to share a video of himself practicing in a batting cage while donning a sweatshirt that boldly proclaimed “NOT ELITE.” This act was interpreted as a direct response to Dombrowski’s comments and demonstrated the tension surrounding Harper’s public image and performance.
Looking at Harper’s statistical performance in 2025, he posted a batting average of .261 with an on-base percentage of .357 and a slugging percentage of .487, leading to an OPS of .844 — his lowest since 2016. Though he managed to hit 27 home runs and recorded 75 RBIs, the metrics indicate a decline from his usual high-level production, which has raised questions about his standing on the team.
Harper’s decline can also be attributed to a lingering wrist injury that limited his performance. In facing opponents, who began throwing a higher percentage of breaking balls at him, disparities emerged in how he was able to respond to pitches.
At 33 years old and coming off a notably underwhelming season, the prospect of adjusting Harper’s batting order is less about a strict demotion or trade and more about Thomson having the leeway to utilize Harper’s talents in accordance with his performance moving forward. The possibility of such an adjustment presents an opportunity for Harper to prove himself once again, demonstrating his resilience and dedication to reclaiming elite status in the lineup.
As the 2026 season approaches, both Harper and the Phillies fans are hopeful that the adjustments will lead to a resurgence, allowing the star player to regain his form and contribute significantly to the team’s success in the coming year.