After a long and tumultuous offseason, Bryce Harper is back with the Philadelphia Phillies. Harper, who signed a 13-year, $330 million contract with the team in 2019, had a disappointing season in 2020, hitting just .268 with 13 home runs and 33 RBIs in 58 games. However, with the 2021 season now underway, Harper is looking to bounce back and help the Phillies regain their momentum.
Harper’s return to the team has been highly anticipated by Phillies fans. The 28-year-old outfielder is a six-time All-Star and former National League MVP, and he has the potential to be one of the best players in the game. His leadership and talent are sorely needed on a team that has struggled in recent years.
The Phillies had a disappointing 2020 season, finishing with a record of 28-32 and missing the playoffs for the ninth straight year. They finished in third place in the National League East, behind the Atlanta Braves and the Miami Marlins. The team’s offense was a major problem, as they scored just 247 runs in 60 games, the fourth-lowest total in the league.
Harper’s return should provide a boost to the team’s offense. In addition to his talent as a hitter, he is also a great baserunner and defender. He can make an impact in all aspects of the game and should be a key player for the team as they look to turn things around.
Of course, Harper can’t do it all on his own. The Phillies will need other players to step up if they want to be successful this season. One player who could be key is Rhys Hoskins, who had a strong start to the 2020 season before tailing off in the second half. If Hoskins can bounce back and provide some power in the middle of the lineup, it could take some pressure off of Harper and the rest of the team.
The pitching staff will also need to improve if the Phillies are going to be successful. Aaron Nola is a solid ace, but the rest of the rotation is unproven. Zack Wheeler had a strong debut season with the team in 2020, but he will need to continue to pitch well if the team is going to have a chance. The bullpen was also a problem last season, and the team will need some of their young pitchers to step up and provide reliable relief.
The National League East is a tough division, with the Braves and the New York Mets both looking strong this season. The Phillies will need to play well in order to compete, but with Harper back in the lineup, they at least have a chance.
In his first few games back with the team, Harper has shown that he still has the potential to be a game-changer. He hit a home run in his first game back and has looked comfortable at the plate. If he can stay healthy and produce at a high level, the Phillies could be a dangerous team this season.
Overall, Bryce Harper’s return to the Phillies is a positive sign for the team and their fans. He is a talented and charismatic player who can provide leadership and production on the field. The Phillies will need him to play at a high level if they want to compete in a tough division, but with Harper back in the fold, they at least have a chance.
