Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper’s 2023 season was one of the most intriguing of his career as he made a miraculous recovery from Tommy John surgery and went on to learn a new defensive position at first base as the year progressed. His production at the plate, however, was only as expected from the two-time NL MVP.
In 126 games, Harper hit 21 home runs while posting a .900 OPS, his fifth time with an OPS of .900 or higher in his career. He also provided a number of memorable — even signature — moments as the Phillies made it back to the NLCS before collapsing to the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Here’s a look at the top five home runs of Year 5 of Harper’s 13-year contract in Philadelphia:
5. Birthday Bash
Stepping to the plate in Game 1 of the NLCS on his 31st birthday, Harper helped Citizens Bank Park celebrate in style. The left-handed hitter launched a solo home run to right-center field for the Phillies second long ball of the bottom of the first inning against D-Backs starter Zac Gallen to kick off a win and a party in the seats.
4. Hello, Pole
With the Phillies trailing by three in the bottom of the ninth on Aug. 23, Harper delivered a laser down the right-field line with two men on — all it had to do was stay fair. The line drive against Giants closer Camilo Doval hit the foul pole and sharply shot back onto the field for a dramatic three-run, game-tying homer. Unfortunately for the Phillies, this didn’t prove to be enough to win the game, as they lost 8-6 in extras.
3. In Stride
The Phillies went into Atlanta for Game 1 of the NLDS hoping to steal a win in a bullpen game against Braves ace Spencer Strider. And as the pitching staff shut it down, Harper provided a spark and some insurance as he took Strider deep in the top of the sixth at Truist Park to help secure an all-time Phillies victory.
2. Mr. 300
Harper reached a career milestone with a bang on Aug. 30 as he skyed his 300th home run high into the air and over the wall for a go-ahead bomb. Down one against the Angels in the bottom of the eight, the slugger came up clutch with a significant two-run homer.
1. Atta Boy
Harper’s baserunning mistake to end an NLDS Game 2 loss may have earned him some jabs from Braves shortstop Orlando Arcia, but it’s clear who came out on top. A two-for-one special in Game 3, Harper blasted two home runs in a blowout win, giving Arcia a stare as he rounded the bases both times. Atta boy, Harper, indeed.
