Phillies' Bryce Harper sends two-word message to Dave Dombrowski

Before Bryce Harper plays his eighth season with the Philadelphia Phillies, he will suit up for Team USA at the 2026 World Baseball Classic. 

While the statistics show that Harper is still an All-Star hitter, there are some in the organization who may disagree. 

In October, the Phillies' president of baseball operations, Dave Dombrowski, commented about Harper's previous season, saying he felt like his production fell off. 

"He's still a quality player. He's still an All-Star-caliber player," Dombrowski said in a conversation with ESPN. "He didn't have an elite season like he's had in the past. I guess we only find out if he becomes elite or if he continues to be good."

Harper responds to Dombrowski's comments 

On Friday, Harper posted a video on TikTok, taking swings in a batting cage. He wore a black shirt that said "Not Elite" with white lettering. 

"It's disappointing to hear me being questioned about my contribution to the team," Harper told The Athletic's Matt Gelb in October. "Just really hurt by that notion because I love Philly so much." 

Harper is clearly sending a message to Dombrowski, letting him know that he hasn't forgotten about the comments he made. Harper's 2025 numbers were not elite, per se, but he did have 27 home runs and a .844 OPS in 132 games. He performed 29% better than the average Major League Baseball hitter. 

Harper, practically a lock for the Hall of Fame, also made a smooth transition from the outfield to first base in 2023 while rehabbing from Tommy John Surgery. He had eight outs above average at the position in 2024. 

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