Rob Thomson Announces Bryce Harper Decision at Phillies Spring Training

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Mar 23, 2026 5:26 PM ET

The Philadelphia Phillies are looking to remain an elite team in 2026, hopeful not only to win a third straight National League East title but also to finally see their recent regular‑season success translate into October.

If they are going to take that next step, they will need first baseman Bryce Harper to remain a force at the plate. Harper has had an eventful offseason, and with Opening Day arriving Thursday, the focus now shifts back to baseball.

His offseason began with public criticism from Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski, and it also included his first appearance in the World Baseball Classic.

Harper suited up for Team USA and helped lead the club to the championship game, where they fell one win short of the gold medal against Venezuela.

Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper (3)© Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

Now Harper’s attention is fully on producing for Philadelphia. Last year, the 33‑year‑old veteran posted a .261 batting average, .357 on‑base percentage, .844 OPS, 27 home runs and 75 RBIs across 132 games.

He will look to at least match that production, although Harper’s goal is to surpass it and return to his MVP‑level form.

On Monday, Phillies manager Rob Thomson rolled out a lineup for the club’s final spring training game that featured shortstop Trea Turner leading off, designated hitter Kyle Schwarber hitting second and Harper batting third.

Thomson was asked by reporters if this would be his Opening Day lineup and confirmed that it would, officially deciding that Harper will remain in the third spot. “We had a lot of success with it last year. That could switch, too. It is just one game right now. We will take it game by game. We are open to making some moves," Thomson explained (h/t Todd Zolecki of MLB.com).

Rob Thomson said this is "probably is" his Opening Day lineup with Kyle Schwarber hitting second and Bryce Harper hitting third. "We had a lot of success with it last year. That could switch, too. It's just one game right now. We'll take it game by game. We're open to making some… https://t.co/hhilBhlT0i
— Todd Zolecki (@ToddZolecki) March 23, 2026

Harper did not spend the entire 2025 season in the third hole. He led off once and hit second in 14 games, but the Phillies found their best rhythm with him batting third.

No matter where Harper hits, he will look to provide the offensive impact that has defined his 14‑year career. He has been one of the best players of his generation as a former Rookie of the Year, two‑time MVP, eight‑time All‑Star and four‑time Silver Slugger.

He is still chasing his first World Series ring, and the Phillies believe this could be the year he finally brings home a championship.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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