Dombrowski Questions Harper; Tension Over Wrist, Contract

After the Phillies’ postseason exit, president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski publicly questioned whether Bryce Harper can return to “elite” form after an off year. Harper told The Athletic he was “hurt” and “disappointed,” said the trade rumors blindsided him given his long-term commitment to Philadelphia, and said a wrist injury affected his 2025 numbers. Dombrowski later sought to tamp down trade talk, saying Harper isn’t getting traded and that the club values him, but reports that Harper was upset and that no one initially reached out suggest the comments strained relations. Media and analysts were split over Dombrowski’s public comments, and agent Scott Boras and Harper supporters pointed to the wrist issue as important context. With Harper holding a full no-trade clause and a contract through 2031, the episode adds uncertainty over his possible extension and complicates the Phillies’ offseason and 2026 roster planning.