Bryce Harper’s 2025 season has gotten off to a sluggish start, falling short of expectations for the Philadelphia Phillies star. While he’s had flashes of productivity, he’s struggled to find consistent success at the plate through the season’s first quarter. Despite growing concern from fans, Phillies hitting coach Kevin Long remains optimistic about Harper’s ability to rebound.
Long, who has coached Harper in both Philadelphia and previously in Washington with the Nationals, joined MLB Now on Monday to talk all things hitting—including Harper’s early-season slump.
“He’s incredibly smart when it comes to understanding his swing and mechanics,” Long said, praising Harper’s development as a hitter. “He knows how to prepare and what it takes to be game-ready.”
Long acknowledged the recent struggles but took a glass-half-full perspective. “He’s in a bit of a tough stretch right now, no doubt,” he said. “But honestly, I’d rather see it happen in May than later in the season. He’s going to figure it out, and I believe he’ll be a major factor for us—especially when it matters most in October.”
Slow starts are nothing new for Harper. In his first season with the Phillies in 2019, the former MVP didn’t immediately meet lofty expectations after signing a then-record 13-year, $330 million contract. He was even met with boos early on. Over his first 41 games that year, Harper batted just .219 with seven homers and 25 RBIs. This year, through the same number of games, he’s posting similar stats: a .232 average, seven home runs, and 22 RBIs. He eventually caught fire in 2019, finishing the season with 35 home runs, a career-high 114 RBIs, and a .260 batting average.
The pattern repeated in 2024, when Harper began May batting just .231 but went on to raise his average to .284, earning All-Star honors as a first baseman and taking home a Silver Slugger Award.
Over the years, Harper has experienced both highs and lows, but he’s built a reputation for stepping up when it counts—especially in the postseason. In 34 playoff games with the Phillies, Harper has delivered, slashing .325 with 12 home runs, 29 RBIs, and a .444 on-base percentage.
Although Harper’s current numbers may be underwhelming, his history suggests there’s little reason for alarm. With a proven support system and a strong track record, he’s more than capable of turning things around and reasserting himself as one of baseball’s elite hitters.