Philly Leader

Bryce Harper spoke candidly on Sunday following the Phillies' 4-3 loss to the Guardians at Citizens Bank Park. Addressing questions about the team's recent performance and the upcoming Trade Deadline, Harper acknowledged the team's struggles, having lost eight of their last twelve games since sweeping the Dodgers in early July.

When asked about his confidence in the team as it stands, especially if Carlos Estévez and Austin Hays are the only acquisitions made before Tuesday's deadline, Harper responded succinctly: "Yeah, the superstars got to show up."

Harper emphasized that any potential new additions would not be enough to turn the season around without significant contributions from existing key players such as Trea Turner, Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, Kyle Schwarber, J.T. Realmuto, and Nick Castellanos.

“It just hasn’t been good,” Harper admitted. “Obviously, myself, I haven’t been good at all. We’ve just got to get better, turn the page and try to have a better series against the Yankees [beginning on Monday]. It’s just part of the game. As the season goes, you’re going to have your ups and downs. We’ve had chances to win games. We’ve had leads in games. We haven’t been able to get the job done.”

Harper has posted a .200 batting average with four home runs and nine RBIs over his past 12 games but holds himself to higher standards given his MVP-caliber expectations.

Reflecting on a missed opportunity during Sunday's game against Cleveland right-hander Hunter Gaddis, Harper expressed frustration after fouling off a first-pitch fastball he might typically hit for a home run. Following an outside pitch for a ball, he shouted in frustration before flying out to right field.

Despite recent struggles, Harper remains optimistic that both he and the team will improve soon. The Phillies recently acquired Hays from Baltimore in exchange for Seranthony Domínguez and Cristian Pache. Hays is expected to play daily in left field but may platoon with Brandon Marsh if he struggles against right-handers.

Additionally, Estévez was acquired from the Angels for two pitching prospects to strengthen the bullpen. While Phillies manager Rob Thomson has not designated him as closer yet, Estévez is expected to have opportunities in high-leverage situations.

“Getting Estévez...he’s been one of the best closers in baseball this year,” Harper said. “So that’ll be good for us...He throws strikes...Hays...hits lefties really well...I’m not really sure if Dave is done or not [with trades], so we’ll see.”

If no further moves are made by Dombrowski before Tuesday's deadline, Harper believes that existing talent within the team still has what it takes to contend for a World Series title.