Mattingly, Harper Could Boost Each Other's Careers with Phillies

New Phillies manager Don Mattingly and star outfielder Bryce Harper may have a mutually beneficial relationship in Philadelphia.

Feb. 27, 2026 at 2:37pm

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In a scene from Phillies spring training, former MLB player and manager Larry Bowa was seen flipping baseballs to Phillies hitting coach Bobby Dickerson, who hit grounders and line drives at star outfielder Bryce Harper. This interaction highlights the potential for new Phillies manager Don Mattingly to help revive Harper's career, while Harper's star power could also benefit Mattingly as he takes over the team.

Why it matters

Harper has struggled with injuries and inconsistency in recent seasons, while Mattingly is looking to prove he can still manage at a high level after being let go by the Marlins. The two could form a productive partnership that helps the Phillies return to the playoffs for the first time since 2011.

The details

Mattingly, who was hired as the Phillies' new manager in the offseason, has a reputation for developing strong relationships with his players and getting the most out of veteran stars. Harper, the Phillies' $330 million man, is coming off a down year and will be looking to bounce back under Mattingly's guidance. The two could form a mutually beneficial partnership, with Mattingly helping to unlock Harper's full potential while Harper's star power and leadership could also elevate Mattingly's standing.

  • The scene described took place on Wednesday during Phillies spring training in Clearwater, Florida.

The players

Don Mattingly

The new manager of the Philadelphia Phillies, hired in the offseason to help turn the team around after they missed the playoffs in 2025.

Bryce Harper

The Phillies' star outfielder, who signed a record-breaking $330 million contract with the team in 2019 but has struggled with injuries and inconsistency in recent seasons.

Larry Bowa

A former MLB player and manager who was seen flipping baseballs to Phillies hitting coach Bobby Dickerson during the spring training scene.

Bobby Dickerson

The Phillies' hitting coach, who was hitting grounders and line drives at Bryce Harper during the spring training scene.

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What’s next

The Phillies will be closely watched this season to see if Mattingly can help Harper and the team return to the playoffs.

The takeaway

The partnership between new Phillies manager Don Mattingly and star outfielder Bryce Harper could be key to the team's success in the coming season, as Mattingly looks to revive Harper's career while Harper's star power could also elevate Mattingly's standing.