Phillies insider calls for "MVP level of Bryce Harper" in 2025 despite 2x MVP's defensive excellence at first base in 2024
On October 18, Philadelphia Phillies insider Corey Seidman talked about Bryce Harper's performances in the past season and his expectations from the two-time MVP for the 2025 campaign. Despite being one of the biggest names in baseball, Harper still misses a World Series title in his otherwise stacked trophy cabinet.
Many expected Harper to get his hands on the elusive prize this year, with the Phillies having a great regular season and comfortably qualifiying to the NLDS. However, a spirited New York Mets outfit put paid to those plans, and it turned out to be yet another season where of postseason heartbreak for Harper and co.
Speaking about Harper on the latest eiditon of 'Phillies Talk', Seidman said:
"Harper was a Gold Glove finalist at first base in his first full year at the position. The question's just, does a full offseason [of rest] enable him to get back to the 'MVP level' of Bryce Harper." Seidman said [7:58]
"This was the 'very good' version of Bryce Harper, but there's still another tier that he has shown he can reach. So, we'll see if he can do that again at age 32 in 2025." Seidman added [8:07]
Juan Soto's good relationship with Bryce Harper may bring him to Philadelphia, says Corey Seidman
Juan Soto's future has been a topic of massive debate in the 2024 season. With the Dominican set to enter free agency following the end of the current campaign, there are still big questions about who will end up winning the race to secure his services.
Soto is one of the brightest talents in the game at the moment, and his recent immense performances in the New York Yankees' run to the World Series only adds to his reputation. There is no question that whoever finally signs him will have to offer quite a substantial offer.
With the Phillies looking for improvements to their squad over the off season, insider Corey Seidman says the Phillies may have an outside chance of making a move for the superstar.
"Juan Soto has a relationship with Bryce Harper, with Trea Turner, and with hitting coach Kevin Long. The Phillies have deep pockets; I wouldn't put it past them to explore it." Seidman said [19:44]
Of course, Soto played with Harper when the two played for the Washington Nationals before the two-time MVP ultimately moved on to his current team.
Soto also left the Nationals in 2022, playing a season with the San Diego Padres before moving to the Yankees, where he has gone on to be a firm fan favorite.
It is yet to be seen whether the Yankees end up retaining Soto, as the 25-year-old's superb postseason performances may be enough to convince the organization to put a bumper offer on the table.