Phillies predicted to make wise Bryce Harper trade decision

On the surface, it doesn't seem very logical for the Philadelphia Phillies to entertain any trade involving Bryce Harper. 

Even without factoring in what Harper has done in Philadelphia, he's also loved by the fan base. While his 2025 season might have been down for his sake, it's also important to remember that Harper posted a 129 OPS+ and hit 27 home runs. 

There was still a strong argument to be made that he was very, very good. 

Despite that, due to David Dombrowski's comments about Harper not playing well in 2025, some have pondered the idea of the Phillies moving on from him. 

It’d never make sense to trade Bryce Harper

Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report doesn't expect that to be the case, predicting that while there could be some landing spots, including the Boston Red Sox, for the star first baseman, Harper will ultimately stay in Philadelphia. 

“Harper has six years and $153.2 million remaining on his 13-year, $330 million contract. It isn't too much for a two-time MVP and eight-time All-Star, but it might be the most he'd get if he were a free agent this winter...

“The Phillies have holes in their starting rotation, in their outfield and at catcher, plus a need to upgrade at third base and second base. If they could make a trade that satisfied at least two of those needs, maybe that could be Harper's exit,” he wrote.

Considering all of the moves seen around baseball over the past few decades, it's unfair to ever count out a trade. However, the Phillies have no reason to move on from Harper right now unless they're going in a completely different direction by not trying to compete.

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