Overview
- Dombrowski’s Oct. 16 remarks questioning whether Bryce Harper can be “elite” again sparked trade chatter that he later sought to quash by saying the Phillies will not trade him.
- Harper told The Athletic he felt hurt and uncomfortable by the speculation despite holding a no-trade clause and being under contract through 2031.
- ESPN’s Buster Olney said the comments were viewed within the sport as an attempt to head off renewed extension discussions for Harper.
- Former Marlins president David Samson argued the remarks also sent a message to Kyle Schwarber’s camp about 2026 payroll limits as the slugger approaches free agency.
- The dispute highlights offseason choices on re-signing Schwarber and adding lineup protection for Harper, whose 2025 wrist injury coincided with a dip to an .844 OPS.