Phillies' Bryce Harper in Contract Extension Talks

Harper's agent says discussions have begun with Phillies leadership about keeping the star outfielder in Philadelphia beyond his current deal.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 11:34pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a baseball player in motion, with sharp planes of color and overlapping perspectives, conveying the complex negotiations around Harper's future in Philadelphia.A cubist interpretation of Bryce Harper's legacy with the Phillies, as the team explores a long-term contract extension for their star outfielder.Philadelphia Today

Bryce Harper's agent, Scott Boras, has confirmed that the Philadelphia Phillies and Harper have begun discussions about a contract extension that would keep the star outfielder in the city beyond his current deal. Boras stated that Harper has a 'legacy he wants to fulfill in Philadelphia' and that team owner John Middleton and president Dave Dombrowski are aware of this goal.

Why it matters

Harper is one of the biggest stars in Major League Baseball, and keeping him in Philadelphia long-term would be a major boost for the Phillies as they look to build a contending team around their franchise player. However, Dombrowski's previous comments about Harper's declining elite status could complicate negotiations.

The details

According to Boras, he has already had discussions with Middleton and Dombrowski about extending Harper's contract beyond its current term. Harper is under contract with the Phillies through the 2031 season, but the two sides are now exploring ways to keep the 33-year-old in Philadelphia for even longer.

  • Harper signed a 13-year, $330 million contract with the Phillies in 2019.

The players

Bryce Harper

A 33-year-old All-Star outfielder who has played for the Phillies since 2019 after signing a record-breaking free agent contract.

Scott Boras

Harper's agent, who is known for securing lucrative contracts for his high-profile MLB clients.

John Middleton

The owner of the Philadelphia Phillies.

Dave Dombrowski

The president of baseball operations for the Philadelphia Phillies.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“In my discussions with (Phillies owner) John (Middleton) and Dave (Dombrowski), they're fully aware that Bryce has a legacy that he wants to fulfill in Philadelphia beyond the current contract.”

— Scott Boras, Harper's Agent

What’s next

The Phillies and Harper's representatives will continue negotiating a potential contract extension, with the goal of keeping the star outfielder in Philadelphia long-term.

The takeaway

Bryce Harper's desire to finish his career in Philadelphia and the Phillies' interest in retaining him suggest the two sides are motivated to reach an agreement on a contract extension. However, Dombrowski's previous comments about Harper's declining elite status could complicate the negotiations.