Bryce Harper's position switch looks to be permanent for Phillies

“I wanted them to know that I was on board with anything they wanted to do,” said Harper via The Athletic. "If that was right field, if that was first base — and I told them that. I said if you want me in right field, I’ll play right. If you want me at first, I’ll play first base. I think collectively, they said, first base is where we want you. I said, ‘OK, I’ll do everything I can to be there.’”

Harper initially made the move to first base during the 2023 season to help get his bat back into the lineup as he worked his way back from elbow surgery. It was initially supposed to be a temporary move, but the Phillies have decided they have the pieces and flexibility to make it permanent. 

The veteran star's initial experience at first base produced some mixed results, but he was far from a liability at the position and he should be better with a full spring training and more experience to prepare.

It also significantly alters what the Phillies can do with their lineup. With Harper locked in at first, it likely means that Kyle Schwarber will be a full-time designated hitter while Nick Castellanos remains entrenched in right field.

The decision could also signal that third basemen Alec Bohm has a limited future in Philadelphia because first base seemed to be a potential position for him. But as long as Harper has that spot, Bohm has no chance there.

Harper, 31, is one of the most impactful hitters in all of baseball but has had his share of injury issues throughout his career. Putting him at first base could be a good way to preserve his career and maximize his long-term value with the Phillies. His bat is strong enough to play at any position on the field, and if he can limit the physical wear and tear on his body that will only help him maintain that value. 

His contract still has eight years remaining on it.