Some players, like Bryce Harper, have a natural ability to energize their club and fan base with what they say or do. The Philadelphia Phillies’ first baseman is not only a must-see on game day, but he also understands just what to say to win over the crowd.
Harper is the Phillies’ leader and public face. He’s one of baseball’s top players, and he’s helped turn the Phillies club around since entering in 2019.
On Sunday, the Phillies secured their fourth consecutive playoff spot and have captured the NL East for the second straight season. Harper is prepared for the party.
Bryce Harper fires up Phillies fans for looming playoffs and celebration on Broad Street
The Phillies may not have won the NL East in front of their home fans on Sunday, but the celebration will come. The Phillies begin a difficult three-game road series against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Monday, and a win would capture the division.
“There’s nothing like celebrating with your teammates after a hard fought year, going through the ups and downs of the season and understanding what the ultimate goal is as a team,” Harper told Phillies Nation of winning the division and advancing to the playoffs, according to Destiny Lugardo. “Obviously, winning the division is just the start of something greater.”
The Phillies have not won the World Series since 2008. Before 2024, the Phillies had not won a division championship since 2011.
With a postseason berth secured and a second consecutive NL East victory, Harper and the Phillies are focused on much bigger goals.
“We haven’t finished with one yet,” Harper remarked, referring to the season-ending World Series celebration. “I’m excited to hopefully have the opportunity to finish the year on one in November and try to extend that party a couple days on to Broad Street.”
The Phillies had a Cinderella run to the World Series in 2022, entering the playoffs as the final Wild Card team. Unfortunately, they fell in six games to the Houston Astros and have deteriorated in the playoffs every year since.
The Phillies’ core has been through it all together, and this year could be their last chance to finish the job. As of Monday, the Phillies were two games behind the Milwaukee Brewers for the best record in the majors and had a first-round bye in the playoffs.