Harper Responds to Criticism
Phillies star Bryce Harper called team president Dave Dombrowski's public critique of his performance 'wild', after Dombrowski suggested Harper may no longer be at his elite peak. The public disagreement between the franchise player and front office executive has drawn attention across MLB.
- Dombrowski's original comments, made in October 2025, questioned if the two-time MVP could return to an elite level, stating, "He didn't have an elite season like he has had in the past. I guess we only find out if he becomes elite or he continues to be good." - Harper expressed that the public nature of the critique was "wild" because the organization had previously agreed to keep such matters "in-house." - The Phillies' executive's remarks came after a season where Harper posted a .261 batting average and an .844 OPS, his lowest since 2016. He also went 3-for-15 with no RBIs in the Phillies' NLDS loss to the Dodgers. - During the 2025 season, Harper was hampered by a wrist injury that caused him to miss a month of play. Despite this, he still hit 27 home runs and drove in 75 runs. - In response to the comments, Harper wore a "Not Elite" T-shirt during a winter workout, which he later downplayed by saying, "If they're going to make them, I'm going to wear them." - Harper clarified that Dombrowski's critique does not serve as motivation, stating, "I don't need to be motivated to be great." - The public disagreement has reportedly led to a pause in discussions about a contract extension for Harper, who is currently signed through the 2031 season on a 13-year, $330 million deal.
