Philadelphia Phillies executive Dave Dombrowski has revealed that Bryce Harper will remain the team’s primary first baseman in the upcoming season. Dombrowski, speaking at the annual general managers meetings, expressed that the Phillies are content with their position player lineup.
According to Dombrowski, Harper is flexible about his role on the team, being willing to play in the outfield or at first base. However, after internal discussions, the Phillies decided to deploy Harper at first base.
The 31-year-old Harper shifted to first base last season after sustaining an elbow injury in the outfield. He underwent Tommy John surgery and only returned to play at first base in July. Despite the positional change, Harper had a strong season, boasting a .293 batting average, .401 on-base percentage, and .499 slugging percentage with 21 home runs, 72 RBIs, and a Wins Above Replacement (WAR) of 3.7 in 126 games.
The decision to keep Harper as the primary first baseman has implications for the Phillies’ roster, particularly concerning free-agent slugger Rhys Hoskins. Hoskins missed the entire 2023 season due to an ACL tear. This announcement makes it less likely that the team will re-sign Hoskins, who CBS Sports ranked as the 13th best free agent available this winter.
Hoskins’ market value was already questionable due to his injury and age as a right-handed first baseman. Dombrowski has informed Hoskins of the decision regarding Harper’s position. The team’s move solidifies Harper’s role and leaves Hoskins with potential options, including accepting a qualifying offer.