Harper Seems Happier

You've probably heard the expression TMI: "Too much information." While it's easy to point to a cliche for what went wrong with a ballclub, the Phillies have not lost since Tuesday, when the personable and persuasive Charlie Manuel replaced data-driven John Mallee as the club's hitting coach.

Just check the results -- especially the last three games from Bryce Harper. Four home runs, including that dramatic walk-off grand slam Thursday night to shock the Cubs. Last night's three-run blast in the 6th inning was the big blow en route to a win over the Padres that gave the Phillies control over the second National League Wild Card.

Harper and catcher J.T. Realmuto's bat's have heated up just in time for the Phils to more resemble the offensive force they were expected to be. Even diminutive Roman Quinn has joined the party. The center fielder the organization has waited for years to develop also homered, has gone 6-for-13 the last four games and is hitting .368 so far this month.

Of course, it always comes back to Harper. When you're making a third of a billion dollars, it always will. So, if he's happy, and more productive, everything looks sunnier in Philadelphia.

(My image of Harper is from the July 7th Phillies/Mets game in New York.)



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