Bryce Harper has surged back to MVP-caliber performance in the 2024 season after a slower start. The Philadelphia Phillies’ two-time MVP ended the first half batting .301 with an on-base percentage of .403 and slugging .580. He launched 21 home runs and drove in 61 runs for the division-leading Phillies.
If the season concluded at the mid-point, Harper would have a strong case for another MVP title. After a couple of injury-plagued seasons, he has firmly re-established himself as one of baseball’s premier players. Harper stands out in a potent Phillies lineup, posing a daunting challenge for any pitcher.
Harper’s confidence is evident when he steps to the plate, capable of hitting against top-tier pitchers regardless of their handedness or repertoire. However, Harper had a change of heart about facing Mason Miller of the Oakland Athletics after witnessing his dominant performance firsthand. According to Miller, Harper initially seemed eager to bat against him, as relayed by Oakland’s first base coach Bobby Crosby. Yet, after Miller pitched a scoreless ninth inning against the Phillies with two strikeouts, including fastballs clocked at 104 mph, Harper’s enthusiasm waned.
Miller shared with Harper during their flight to the All-Star Game in Arlington, Texas, that Harper had expressed interest in facing him. Harper’s response was succinct: “Ahhh, I’m good,” as recounted by Miller.
Harper, known for his fearless approach on the field, not rushing to face Miller underscores the young pitcher’s exceptional talent. In his debut MLB season, Miller boasts a 2.27 ERA over 33 appearances, pitching 39.2 innings with an impressive 46.7% strikeout rate and converting 15 of 17 save opportunities. His standout performance earned him a spot as an AL All-Star.
While the Phillies covet Miller and President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski may seek to acquire him, any trade would demand a significant package due to Miller’s extensive team control. Despite the temptation, the Phillies may hesitate to part with the assets required for such a blockbuster deal. Nonetheless, Harper’s reluctance to face Miller underscores the pitcher’s exceptional talent and impact on the game.
