Dombrowski’s Doubts Impact Harper’s Elite Status
Philadelphia Phillies superstar Bryce Harper has expressed his disappointment following comments made by President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski. Dombrowski acknowledged Harper’s quality but cast doubt on whether the two-time National League MVP could regain elite status after a subpar season.
Dombrowski’s Comments on Harper’s Performance
During an end-of-season news conference, Dombrowski remarked that while Harper is a quality player, he did not have an elite season. This statement led to speculation regarding potential trade discussions involving Harper, who has six years remaining on his significant $330 million contract, complete with a no-trade clause.
Harper’s Reaction
Harper, now 33 years old, stated he felt “hurt” by Dombrowski’s remarks. He emphasized his dedication to the team, saying, “I have given my all to Philly from the start.” The trade speculation, he noted, is reminiscent of his experiences with the Washington Nationals, where he felt uncomfortable with similar discussions.
Performance Overview
- Harper’s OPS for the recent season was .844, the lowest since 2016.
- In the NL Division Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, he batted 3-for-15 with no RBIs.
- He also missed a month of the season due to a wrist injury.
The Future of Harper with the Phillies
Despite the speculation surrounding his status, Dombrowski has denied any intention to trade the star outfielder. On a recent episode of “Foul Territory,” he stated, “We love him. We think he’s a great player. He’s a very important part of our team.” He also expressed hope that Harper would soon return to form, citing that he has witnessed better seasons from the player.
As the offseason approaches, the future of Bryce Harper remains a topic of significant interest within the Phillies organization and among fans alike.
