Bryce Harper 'really hurt' by trade buzz caused by damaging Dave Dombrowski comments

Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper issued a strong response to speculation that he might be traded this offseason.

Why did the Bryce Harper trade speculation begin?

Harper’s name has started to appear in rumors after team president Dave Dombrowski questioned whether the eight-time All-Star can produce at an elite level again. 

"I don't think ... I mean in Bryce's case, of course, he's still a quality player. He's still a All-Star-caliber player," Dombrowski said. "He didn't have an elite season like he has had in the past. And I guess we only find out if he becomes the elite or he continues to be good."

For Harper, everything stemming from those comments has been a source of frustration and hurt.

“I have given my all to Philly from the start,” Harper told Matt Gelb The Athletic on Saturday. “Now there is trade talk? I made every effort to avoid this. It’s all I heard in D.C. (with the Nationals). I hated it. It makes me feel uncomfortable.

“All players get hurt. I hurt my wrist this year and missed a month. Of course I don’t have full-year numbers.

“It’s disappointing to hear me being questioned about my contribution to the team. Just really hurt by that notion because I love Philly so much.”

Harper admitted he was hurt by Dombrowski’s public comments, and he was frustrated that there was virtually nothing he could do to demonstrate his commitment to the Phillies.

“From changing positions to coming back early from injury, I show total commitment for my team. And yet there is still trade talk,” Harper said.

Phillies need to do damage control with Bryce Harper

The Phillies may have some work to do smoothing things over with Harper, though the 33-year-old clearly does not want to leave. Dombrowski likely did not intend to start a debate on Harper’s value with his comments, but the topic took on a life of its own.

Harper was limited to 132 games in 2025 by a lingering wrist injury. When he did play, he was not as dynamic as he has been in the past. While he still hit 27 home runs, his .261 average was his lowest mark since 2019, his first season with the Phillies.