There is no denying Bryce Harper’s superstar ability — unless you’re Philadelphia Phillies President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski.
Back in October, Dombrowski questioned the two-time MVP’s ability to still be elite.
“He didn’t have an elite season like he has in the past,” Dombrowski said. “I guess we’ll only find out if he becomes elite or he continues to be good. Can he rise to the next level again? I don’t really know the answer. He’s the one that will dictate that more than anything else is what it comes down to. I don’t think he’s content with the year that he had. It wasn’t a bad year, but when I think of Bryce Harper, you think elite. You think one of the top 10 players in baseball and I don’t think it fit into that category.”
What Did Philadelphia Phillies’ Bryce Harper Do?
Now, Harper made a little jab at that comment.
Harper posted on his TikTok a video of him hitting in the cages. What seemed like an innocent video quickly turned sour once the viewers got a look at what Harper was wearing: a shirt that said in all caps “NOT ELITE.”
This is most definitely a shot taken at Dombrowski for his comments, but how malicious Harper’s response was meant to be is not known at this time.
The Phillies’ superstar could very well be using this as fire under his belly for the upcoming season.
However, he did voice his frustrations with The Athletic’s Matt Gelb after Dombrowski’s press conference.
“It’s disappointing to hear me being questioned about my contribution to the team,” Harper said. “Just really hurt by that notion because I love Philly so much.”
Harper has always had a fiery persona, especially this year. He was part of an altercation with the MLB Commissioner, Rob Manfred, earlier this year in the Phillies locker room over a salary cap dispute.
Harper signed a 13-year $330 million deal through 2031 back in 2019, and therefore has a hard contract to move should he request a trade.
Was Dombrowski Right?
Harper battled with wrist injuries in 2025, playing just 132 games. He hit 27 home runs with an .844 OPS, a somewhat far cry from his career .905 OPS.
However, Harper is still one of the elite players in this game. With a career 54 bWAR and 363 home runs, Harper is well on his way to Cooperstown.
He still brings an elite bat to the equation, despite an off year. In 2025, Harper had a .367 xwOBA, good for the 91st percentile, per Baseball Savant. While he is starting to chase and whiff at more pitches, he still brings an 88th percentile walk percentage.
In addition, after his move from the outfield to first base, Harper has become an above-average defender, with a +1 Outs Above Average, good for the 72nd percentile.
Entering his age-33 season, Harper may be entering the end of his prime, but he is still an elite player the league should fear, and maybe Dombrowski should as well.
Phillies Superstar Takes Potential Jab at Front Office