Bryce Harper sets the tone for the 2020 season in the perfect way
Some may have been skeptical about Bryce Harper’s desire to be a member of the Philadelphia Phillies, as evidenced by his lengthy delay prior to signing his $330 million contract. But, you can’t deny Harper’s passion and desire to bring a World Series title to the City of Brotherly Love.
If you needed further proof of Harper’s commitment to the Phillies, just look at his Phillie Phanatic-themed suit prior to their season-opener against the Miami Marlins
The perfect suit doesn't exi— pic.twitter.com/uOIvrtVZsX
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) July 24, 2020
Harper bleeds Phillies red and white
Seriously, who doesn’t love the Phillie Phanatic? Oh yeah, the fans of the Atlanta Braves, New York Mets, Washington Nationals and Marlins aren’t too keen on the fuzzy green mascot. But Harper isn’t catering to the opposition, he’s winning over his home fan base.
Entering the 2020 MLB season, the Phillies have the potential to rise up the NL East standings. They have a new, successful manager in Joe Girardi and two free agent acquisitions in shortstop Didi Gregorius and pitcher Zack Wheeler. On paper, the Phillies are pretty stacked.
Harper is looking to improve from his first season in Philadelphia. While he did hit 35 home runs and 114 RBI, Harper slashed .260/.372/.510 through 157 games. That just wasn’t enough, as the Phillies finished the 2019 campaign with an 81-81 record even with all that talent on the roster.
With the 2020 season shortened to 60 games and the postseason expanded to 16 teams, the Phillies have the potential to clinch a playoff berth. If the Phillies destroy the Marlins on Friday, you best believe that Harper will wear that Phillie Phanatic suit on a weekly basis.