Today Bryce Harper turns 27 years of age. Late last night his former team, the Washington Nationals, clinched their first trip to the World Series in franchise history in their first season with him.
After seven seasons with the Nationals, Harper bolted to sign a mega $330 million deal with Washington’s rival, the Philadelphia Phillies. Many analysts thought Harper could boost the Phillies into contenders. However, his subtraction from the Nationals proved more fruitful.
The Nationals are loaded with young talent, especially at the skills positions with Anthony Rendon, Juan Soto and Victor Robles leading a group of veterans that were ready to get over the hump.
Harper and the Phillies struggled through a disappointing season. It was the Nationals that put them out of their misery, eliminating them from postseason contention. Their manager was fired at the end of the season.
Harper is sure to have fun with his family and friends. But human nature suggests this year’s born day may be a little bit difficult mentally, as he sees the team he spurned make it past the NLDS and to the World Series in their first season without him.
