Phillies Send Blue Jays, Vladimir Guerrero Jr Message Amid Bryce Harper Surge
The Philadelphia Phillies have rebounded to a .500 record after a poor start to the 2026 season, following the firing of manager Rob Thomson and the promotion of Don Mattingly. The team's improvement has coincided with a strong offensive resurgence from franchise slugger Bryce Harper. Harper, who struggled in 2025, is now performing at an All-Star level as the Phillies prepare to host the midsummer classic.
- ▪The Phillies fired manager Rob Thomson after a poor start and replaced him with bench coach Don Mattingly.
- ▪Since the managerial change, the Phillies have returned to a .500 record, including a comeback win in Pittsburgh.
- ▪Bryce Harper has improved his performance significantly in 2026, with stats rising to .282/.372/.534 compared to his 2025 numbers.
- ▪Harper is on track to be a main attraction at the 2026 All-Star Game, which Philadelphia will host.
- ▪Don Mattingly, a six-time All-Star with the New York Yankees, has positively influenced the team according to player feedback.
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