The 2025 season is an all-in one for Bryce Harper and the Philadelphia Phillies. With expectations set to “World Series or bust”, Harper and the rest of Philly’s veteran core are ready to take the burden that comes with such expectations.
Harper spoke to Sports Radio 94.1 WIP’s Devan Kaney today about the role the younger guys on the team should play.
“They’re not the daycare anymore,” Harper said. “They’re on this team. It’s gonna be a lot of fun for them to go in and enjoy this year.”
The daycare is a nickname given to Alec Bohm, Bryson Stott, and Brandon Marsh – the three youngest starting position players who are known for their postgame shenanigans after Phillies victories. But all three have also made their marks as major leaguers, something Harper is not overlooking as they enter the new season.
Bohm was an All-Star last year and drove in 97 runs for the Phils. Stott swiped 32 bags while acting as a threat in the bottom of the order. Marsh was one of the best defensive outfielders in all of baseball. All of those are great contributions to the club, but Harper wants them to shift all the noise toward him.
“At this moment in their career, they have a lot of guys in here that have played baseball for a long time,” Harper said. “I want them to put all the pressure on us and just go out and play their game… because this may be the last time they’re able to do that.”
“I want them to put all the pressure on [us veteran players] and just go out and play their game. Have fun, enjoy the moment.” pic.twitter.com/iVRzlH88SG
Bryce Harper on his messaging to the younger guys on the team:
“I want them to put all the pressure on [us veteran players] and just go out and play their game. Have fun, enjoy the moment.” pic.twitter.com/iVRzlH88SG
— Devan Kaney (@Devan_Kaney) March 27, 2025
Bohm is still under team control through 2026, while Stott and Marsh have another year beyond that. The Phillies will soon have to decide whether to extend, trade, or let each man walk in free agency.
For now, though, the task at hand is making a fourth straight playoff push – and this time, finishing it off with a World Series Championship.
