In today’s baseball world, team captains have become rarer and rarer. In the 2010s, David Wright and Adrian Beltre were captains of the Mets and Rangers, respectfully.
One has to go back to 2011 to find a player with a “C” on his chest.
Jason Varitek was the heart and soul of the 2000’s Red Sox.
Currently, no one represents Philadelphia better than Bryce Harper. The reigning NL MVP has been a keystone of the franchise since signing in the offseason of 2018-19.
Harper brings a certain energy that Philadelphia hasn’t seen since the glory days of Jimmy Rollins. That energy can be seen anytime Harper goes out to right field and bows for the Philly Phaithful.
Those bows aren’t a symbol of his individual stardom, but, instead, a recognition of the gratitude he has for the fans. Contrary to popular belief, Bryce Harper is a true team player. Nothing shows that better than his acceptance speech for NL MVP. Harper went of his way to mention teammates like, JT Realmuto, Andrew Knapp, Brad Miller, and Rhys Hoskins.
Harper’s reach to teammates extends to the minors as Phillies’ top position prospect, Bryson Stott, has developed a unique connection with the right fielder. The pair were roommates in Spring Training and became friends (as seen through Stott’s Twitter).
While the relationship between the Las Vegas natives is a wholesome one, friendship isn’t the only thing Harper brings to the Phillies. He has the leadership quality needed to be a captain. Recently, he’s expressed the desire to represent the Phillies in a recreation of an iconic picture.
The last Phillies’ captain was Mike Schmidt from 1978-79. Other captains in Phillies’ history include Jimmie Wilson (1927-28), Fresco Thompson (1928-1930), and Granny Hamner (1952-59).
Arguments could also be made for JT Realmuto and Rhys Hoskins as captains. Bryce Harper actually called Realmuto the team leader last April.
As for Rhys Hoskins, he just seems like the guy that everyone on the team likes. Last season, he showed that through his reactions in the dugout, cheering on his teammates.
There’s no true need for a Phillies’ captain but with the Phillies in a 10-year playoff drought, giving someone for players and fans to rally behind couldn’t hurt.
Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire
