Dave Dombrowski uncertain about Bryce Harper’s potential to be elite again

Uncertain Future for Bryce Harper

Dave Dombrowski might have unintentionally fueled some competitive fire with his recent comments about Bryce Harper. During a wrap-up press conference, the Philadelphia President of Baseball Operations questioned whether the two-time MVP can regain his elite status.

Harper wrapped up the 2025 season with a .261 batting average and an .844 OPS, which are notably his lowest figures since 2019 and 2016, respectively. This downturn came after the Phillies’ defeat to the Dodgers in the National League Division Series.

“In Bryce’s case, he’s undoubtedly a quality player,” Dombrowski noted. “He’s still an All-Star, but he hasn’t had those elite seasons like before. I honestly don’t think he’ll ever reach that level again. That said, he remains in good shape.”

Dombrowski pointed to Dodgers player Freddie Freeman, who ended the season with a .295 average and an .869 OPS, as someone who, while still productive, isn’t on the same elite tier he once was.

Yet, Harper has made the All-Star Game twice in the last four seasons and landed sixth in NL MVP voting in 2024. He continues to be a key component of the Phillies’ lineup, even transitioning to first base after having Tommy John surgery in November 2022.

Recently turning 33, Harper faced challenges in the postseason, hitting just .200 with one extra-base hit during the series against the Dodgers.

Dombrowski candidly admitted, “I’m not sure if he can get back to that elite level. It’s really up to him at this point.” He added that Harper likely isn’t pleased with this year’s performance, emphasizing, “It’s not that it was a bad year. But when you think of Bryce, you expect him to be at the top. And right now, he doesn’t quite fit that elite mold, though he’s still very good.”

The Phillies have six more years with Harper left on his substantial contract, totaling roughly $153 million. However, changes could be ahead in the lineup, especially with free agents like Kyle Schwarber and JT Realmuto on the horizon.

As a seasoned executive, Dombrowski noted he has seen players reach a plateau at this stage of their careers. But he’s also witnessed some bounce back.