When Phillies hitting coach Kevin Long thought Yankees would benefit greatly from bringing in Bryce Harper
Bryce Harper is known as one of the most talented Philadelphia Phillies icons. But his own hitting coach wanted him to be a part of the Yankees.
Harper's hitting coach Kevin Long, who has been with him since he was with the Washington Nationals, gave an interview to The New York Post in 2022. In the interview, Long, who used to be a coach for the Yankees as well, said a lot about what he thinks would be Harper's most suitable team.
Long said the following about Harper fitting in with the Yankees team:
“He would have thrived there (The New York Yankees). I just know the bigger the stage, it seems like he’s up for it and he’s game-on"
He added:
“I think he’d embrace New York, as well, and everything that goes with it. Whether it’s the spotlight, the pressure, it all makes him play even better"
Today marks four years since Bryce Harper agreed to a 13 year, $330 million deal with the Phillies.
Best signing ever?
https://t.co/AZujbTL3hH
Bryce Harper signed a $330 million contract with the Phillies that would last for 13 years. It was the most expensive contract before being taken over by Mike Trout's contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
When Bryce Harper's hitting coach said that he is glad he is with the Phillies
Bryce Harper, a seven-time All-Star and a two-time NL MVP, has garnered a lot of admiration from Philadelphia Phillies fans. Many would not be able to imagine a team without the right fielder.
He is also one of the highest paid players in the MLB, and many believe that it is well justified. Although Harper's hitting coach said that he would be a shoo-in with the Yankees, he still believes that Harper suits the Phillies the best.
In the same interview, when asked about his opinions on the Phillies fans, he said the following:
“These guys (Phillies fans) can be ruthless. It doesn’t bother him. He (Bryce Harper) embraces it.”
Long further commented on his thoughts on Bryce Haper being part of the Philadelphia Phillies franchise by saying:
“Even though he’d be great in New York, I’m glad he’s here. I’m glad he’s in Philly. But I’m confident he would have been great in New York.”
If Bryce Harper’s at bat happened in 2023
(via @Phillies_Muse) https://t.co/XO7QaHm6IS
Since entering the Phillies team, Harper has won two All-stars (2018 & 2022) and won the Silver Slugger Award in 2022. He will begin the 2023 season with the team soon.