In his fifth season with the Phillies, Bryce Harper is setting a positive example in clubhouse by bending over backward for the betterment of the team.
The two-time NL MVP’s speedy return from elbow surgery in an unprecedented 159 days was impressive, but younger teammates are especially taking note of his willingness to learn first base.
Harper is limited to designated hitter right now. He is taking grounders and practicing infield throws so that when he reaches clearance for throwing, he can fill in first base.
The Phillies have two players at that position on the Injured List. Both Rhys Hoskins and Darick Hall are out with long-term injuries.
Harper playing first base, would reopen the designated hitter slot to help fellow veterans Kyle Schwarber, Nick Castellanos and J.T. Realmuto stay in the lineup with more.
“I think anytime you can look at a superstar doing that,” second baseman Bryson Stott said, “it’s like, why am I complaining about something if he’s over here, one of the best players in the game, changing his stuff?”
Harper is coming off an epic postseason, in which he led the Phillies to the World Series. Although they come up short, Harper’s postseason hitting display was phenomenal.
Harper work ethic and team first approach is setting a good example for the rest of Phillies players.
Phillies DH Bryce Harper. Photo courtsey Section 215
