On Wednesday night, the Philadelphia Phillies wrapped up their home series against the Chicago Cubs, falling 11–2 in the finale.
Even in the loss, Bryce Harper provided a bright spot by launching a home run—and making MLB history in the process. His 367th career homer moved him past Lance Berkman and into sole possession of 89th place on the league’s all-time home run list.
Through 18 games this season, Harper is hitting .258 with 17 hits, four homers, 11 RBIs, 10 runs scored, one stolen base, along with 10 walks and 11 strikeouts. The two-time MVP is now in his eighth season with Philadelphia.
Harper’s Background
Harper entered the league as one of the most hyped prospects ever and was selected first overall in the 2010 MLB Draft. The now 33-year-old spent his first seven seasons with the Washington Nationals.
On October 7, 2023, ESPN’s Jeff Passan summed up Harper’s legacy: “Bryce Harper is 30 years old. He has now spent half his life squarely in the limelight. He is a beloved teammate, a tremendous leader, an elite player and as clutch as anyone in the game. He is not just everything he was supposed to be. He is more.”
Harper has guided the Phillies to the postseason four times, including a trip to the 2022 World Series, where they came up short against the Houston Astros. A championship remains the final milestone missing from his résumé.
Phillies’ Current Outlook
Philadelphia sits at 8–10 through 18 games, holding third place in the NL East and posting a 5–7 record at home. After closing out the Cubs series, the Phillies will stay home to begin a series against the Atlanta Braves starting Friday.
