At the end-of-season press conference, Dave Dombrowski made a comment that immediately caught attention — and not just inside the Phillies organization. When asked about Bryce Harper and whether he could still be considered an elite player following a disappointing 2025 campaign, Dombrowski stopped short of offering a full endorsement. Coming from the president of baseball operations, it was a notable moment, especially given Harper’s stature as the face of the franchise.
To be fair, Harper’s 2025 season fell below the lofty standard he set in the two years prior. A bout of significant right wrist inflammation sidelined him for most of June, forcing a nearly month-long stay on the injured list. Although he returned in late June and played out the rest of the season, the lingering effects were evident. His power numbers dipped, his swing looked less explosive, and his overall production failed to reach the MVP-level heights Phillies fans have come to expect.
Can Harper Return to MVP Form?
The answer to that question could define the Phillies’ World Series hopes in 2026. While Harper still posted respectable numbers, there was a clear drop-off compared to his recent peak. Dombrowski acknowledged that decline and openly questioned whether Harper could once again reach the superstar tier he occupied after signing his massive contract in Philadelphia.
Those comments weren’t necessarily wrong — but the timing and public nature of them raised eyebrows. Statements like that, when made about a player of Harper’s caliber, tend to take on a life of their own. A private conversation might have avoided the national debate that followed, especially one questioning whether a former MVP had slipped from elite status.
Despite the noise, there’s little reason to doubt Harper’s ability to rebound. Health will be critical, but so will lineup construction. Last season, Harper often struggled to see quality pitches with Alec Bohm hitting behind him, allowing opposing pitchers to work around him. That lack of protection led to more chase swings and fewer opportunities to drive the ball. If Harper wants to boost his average and push his OPS back above .900, his approach — and the support around him — will need to evolve.
Harper Fires Back at Dombrowski
Motivation doesn’t appear to be an issue. Harper recently posted a TikTok video of himself hitting while wearing a shirt emblazoned with the words “NOT ELITE.” Predictably, the clip ignited speculation. Was it a direct shot at Dombrowski? A sign of tension between star and front office?
More likely, it was classic Bryce Harper. He’s always understood how to lean into narratives, especially in a city like Philadelphia. As a self-proclaimed Philly Phanatic, Harper thrives on slights — real or perceived — and often uses them as fuel rather than distractions.
Harper knows what’s at stake. If the Phillies are going to break through in October, he must be the engine. Dombrowski’s remarks may end up being the spark Harper needs to reassert himself among the game’s elite.
There are still unanswered questions. Will Rob Thomson adjust the lineup and move Harper to the two-hole ahead of Kyle Schwarber? Will the front office address the glaring middle-of-the-order gap, especially with JT Realmuto now on the open market? Dombrowski could pursue another marquee bat like Bo Bichette or Alex Bregman rather than commit major money to an aging catcher with declining offense.
One way or another, the message has been sent — and Bryce Harper has clearly heard it.
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