Bryce Harper urges Phillies to reunite with beloved slugger Rhys Hoskins

Hoskins is game to return, but Phillies GM Dave Dombrowski not convinced it's the right move

Feb. 20, 2026 at 11:55pm

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Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper has reportedly been advocating for the team to re-sign free agent first baseman Rhys Hoskins, a beloved postseason hero. Hoskins is said to be interested in a reunion, but Phillies GM Dave Dombrowski is not convinced it's the best fit for the team's roster at the moment.

Why it matters

The Phillies are heading into the 2026 season with World Series aspirations, but their offense and pitching staff have some question marks. Bringing back Hoskins could provide a power boost from the right side of the plate, but it may require roster shuffling that Dombrowski is hesitant to make.

The details

Harper has reportedly been advocating for the Phillies to sign Hoskins, who remains a free agent. Hoskins is said to be "game" for a reunion, but Dombrowski has decided that Hoskins is not a fit for the current Phillies roster. With Kyle Schwarber entrenched at designated hitter and Harper and Adolis Garcia in the outfield, there may not be an obvious spot for Hoskins on the team.

  • The Phillies are heading into the 2026 MLB season.

The players

Bryce Harper

A star outfielder for the Philadelphia Phillies who is reportedly advocating for the team to re-sign Rhys Hoskins.

Rhys Hoskins

A free agent first baseman who is a beloved postseason hero for the Phillies and is said to be interested in a reunion with the team.

Dave Dombrowski

The general manager of the Philadelphia Phillies who has decided that re-signing Rhys Hoskins is not the best fit for the team's current roster.

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What they’re saying

“Sources tell me Bryce Harper has been advocating for more right-handed power and someone who could give the Phillies more emotional edge/swagger. I'm told Harper suggested Dave Dombrowski (to) look into a reunion with Rhys Hoskins, who remains a free agent. I'm told Hoskins is game to come back and finish the job with the Phillies.”

— Devan Kaney, 94 WIP reporter (94 WIP)

“Dombrowski kicked tires on a potential reunion before ultimately deciding Hoskoins is not a fit, according to sources.”

— Devan Kaney, 94 WIP reporter (94 WIP)

The takeaway

While a reunion between Rhys Hoskins and the Philadelphia Phillies would be a feel-good story, Phillies GM Dave Dombrowski has determined that it does not fit the team's current roster needs and plans. Bryce Harper may be advocating for the move, but Dombrowski appears focused on other ways to improve the team's offense and pitching ahead of their World Series push in 2026.