Tension has continued to build between the Philadelphia Phillies and their superstar first basemanBryce Harper as the 2026 MLB season approaches.
The friction began last year when Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski publicly questioned Harper’s ability to remain elite as he ages. Harper later admitted at spring training that the comments still bothered him, and the relationship has not fully smoothed over since.
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As for Harper’s performance in 2025, the 33‑year‑old veteran posted a .261 batting average, .357 on‑base percentage, .844 OPS, 27 home runs and 75 RBIs across 132 games. He still has six years remaining on the 13‑year, $330 million contract he signed in 2019.
Regardless of the noise, Harper’s focus now shifts toward getting back into rhythm at spring training before he eventually departs to represent Team USA in the World Baseball Classic.
Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper (3) © Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
(© Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images)
Even with the tension, Harper has continued to communicate with the front office about potential additions. He wants to bring a World Series title back to Philadelphia, and he wants one for himself as well.
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It is the only major accomplishment missing from a track record that already includes Rookie of the Year honors, two MVPs, eight All‑Star selections and four Silver Sluggers.
According to Devan Kaney of Fox 29, Harper recently suggested that Dombrowski explore a reunion with former Phillies left fielder Rhys Hoskins, who has spent the last two seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers. Harper believed the team needed more right‑handed power and emotional edge.
Unfortunately for Harper, Dombrowski ultimately decided that a reunion would not work and that Hoskins was not a fit. The decision is disappointing for Harper because he witnessed Hoskins’ production firsthand.
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Over six seasons with Philadelphia, Hoskins hit .242 with a .353 on‑base percentage, an .846 OPS, 148 home runs and 405 RBIs. Injuries have limited him over the last three years, and he likely would have been available on a short‑term deal, making the rejection even more frustrating for Harper, who has every right to apply pressure on the front office.
Ultimately, the Phillies’ outlook is shakier this year after losing key pieces and failing to make major additions. Re‑signing designated hitterKyle Schwarber was retention, not improvement, and the roster around Harper has not meaningfully upgraded.
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As the season draws closer, the disconnect between Harper’s urgency and the front office’s restraint looms as one of the defining storylines in Philadelphia.
Related: Phillies’ Trea Turner Sends Message After Unfortunate News
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Feb 21, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.