Bryce Harper’s agent is already pushing for a contract extension, even as tension builds around the Phillies star.
The two-time MVP has faced growing criticism in recent months, from a slow start to the 2026 season to pointed remarks from Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski, who questioned whether Harper still belongs among the game’s elite. Despite that, agent Scott Boras has begun discussions with team leadership about extending Harper’s future in Philadelphia.
Boras said both owner John Middleton and Dombrowski understand Harper’s desire to continue building his legacy with the Phillies beyond his current deal, and that early conversations have already taken place.
Harper is currently in year eight of his 13-year, $330 million contract, which runs through the 2031 season. By the time it expires, he’ll be 38—an age when many players are nearing retirement. While the deal was once seen as one that could carry him through the rest of his career, Harper appears interested in playing beyond it.
His recent performance, however, has raised questions. Early in the 2026 season, Harper is hitting .200 with two home runs and a .698 OPS through his first 40 at-bats. That follows a relatively modest 2025 campaign, where he posted 27 home runs, a .261 average, and an .844 OPS solid numbers, but below his usual standard.
Still, Boras remains confident Harper will bounce back. He insists the veteran is in peak physical condition and fully capable of delivering another standout season, pointing to performance data that suggests no decline.
Meanwhile, the Phillies have started the season on a positive note despite Harper’s struggles. They’ve won two of their first three series and currently sit atop the NL East with a 6-4 record. The roster remains largely intact, relying on experienced players like Kyle Schwarber, J.T. Realmuto, Trea Turner, Aaron Nola, Zack Wheeler, and Harper to lead the way.
After dropping their opening series to the Texas Rangers, Philadelphia responded by taking series wins over the Washington Nationals and the Colorado Rockies. They now turn their attention to the San Francisco Giants.
Even with the team performing well overall, much of the spotlight remains on Harper. As expectations stay high, he’ll need to prove he can still perform at an elite level if he hopes to secure another long-term commitment from the Phillies.
Leave a Reply