Bryce Harper’s position switch helps Phillies

PHOENIX — A multitude of moments defines a baseball season. However, one specific instance in April had an extraordinary impact on the Phillies’ entire year.

“Trea [Turner] called him Superman the other day,” revealed Phillies infield coach Bobby Dickerson this week. “What he does for us is remarkable.”

Bryce Harper possesses a unique perspective on baseball, understanding both the bigger picture and the smallest details of the game. Harper comprehended in March how Rhys Hoskins’ ACL tear would significantly disrupt the Phillies’ offensive and defensive strategies.

Initially, the Phillies looked to Darick Hall to fill in at first base against right-handed pitching. Unfortunately, Hall sustained a thumb injury on April 6, necessitating surgery. They then turned to Alec Bohm, who had to switch between third base and first base, sharing first base duties with Kody Clemens and later Drew Ellis, which proved to be less than ideal.

However, Harper saw an opportunity to contribute. Despite still recovering from Tommy John surgery, he volunteered to play first base, a position he had never played before.

“At the time, it was a revolving door over there,” Harper recalled. “We were trying to figure out the best course of action, whether I would come back at any capacity in the outfield or just as a designated hitter. Considering we have many options for the DH and outfield positions, I thought, ‘Why not?'”

Harper approached Phillies manager Rob Thomson and president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski with his idea.

“If they had rejected the idea, I would have accepted it,” Harper admitted.

Dickerson’s initial reaction was skepticism. “Does he really mean it?” he wondered. “OK, I hear you, but it’s not easy.”

Surprisingly, everyone agreed, and that decision changed everything. Harper made his first appearance at first base on July 21 in Cleveland. Bohm permanently moved to third base, and Kyle Schwarber transitioned from left field to DH, thereby improving the outfield defense.

“He sees what can make this team the best,” Bohm remarked.

According to Statcast, Harper finished the regular season with a +2 outs above average, tying for the third-highest OAA among Phillies first basemen since 2016. Additionally, FanGraphs recorded 1 defensive run saved for Harper.

Harper’s presence at first base is not solely to fill a position; he is skilled in playing the position effectively.

“It’s a challenging position,” Dickerson acknowledged. “There’s a lot of decision-making and various responsibilities. The only thing you don’t have to do often is throw to a base. Some may consider it an easier position, but the truth is, you have to make decisions about which ball to go for and when to cover.

“That’s why he has a [+2] outs above average. He has greater range than most players, demonstrating his aggressiveness and ability to go after balls. Since the beginning, I have told him, ‘If you’re serious about this, you can certainly do it. You have the talent.'”

After an intensive workout session with Harper in San Francisco, Dickerson believed that Harper has the potential to become a Gold Glove first baseman in the future.

“There will be challenges along the way,” Dickerson explained. “It’s about being patient. Sometimes, he lacks patience.

“Recently, we had a play where Trea slid into the hole and threw the ball high up in the air. It was an in-between hop. Bryce became indecisive about whether to go for the hop or execute a drop step. Ultimately, he managed to block it.

“He was upset with himself about that. I reminded him, ‘Dude, there needs to be some patience. It’s not an easy play.’ He mentioned Eric Hosmer and Freddie Freeman, recalling how they handled similar plays. I told him, ‘What do they have in common? They have both played first base for a long time.’

“But Bryce will get there. The fact that he was thinking about it shows that he will achieve it. He’s aware and determined. He’s an MVP, and part of that stems from his pursuit of perfection. He possesses immense talent but doesn’t take it for granted. He didn’t just assume that he would be better than everyone else. Even if he never practiced, he would still be a solid Major Leaguer. However, he devotes himself to improving his hitting and defense. He works for it. That’s why he’s an MVP, and that’s why I think he has the potential to win a Gold Glove.”

It is uncertain what the future holds. Perhaps the Phillies will bring back Hoskins, which would move Harper back to the outfield. Alternatively, Hoskins may seek opportunities elsewhere. Nonetheless, for now, Harper’s performance at first base is proving successful and beneficial.

It all began with Harper’s idea in April and the subsequent endorsement by Thomson and Dombrowski.

“They thought it was a good idea, and it has been working ever since,” Harper concluded.