How Does Bryce Harper Playing First Base Improve the Phillies’ Odds?

When the visiting Philadelphia Phillies took to the diamond Friday night to play the Cleveland Guardians, there was one position change that may have had fans at home adjusting their televisions. Bryce Harper, normally an outfielder, played first base.

Before we forget, check out our American League, National League, Interleague odds, and MLB props.

Phillies’ Bryce Harper Plays at First Base

The two-time MVP hadn’t played outfield for a long time, having undergone Tommy John surgery last year. Rather than being designated to his usual position in the outfield, the Phillies’ management got creative in how to use his talent, all the while preparing itself for some trade deadline bargaining.

Harper wasted no time in flashing some potential brilliance with a third-inning catch that had him topple into an empty photographer’s box in the foul ball territory.

The idea is that if Bryce proves to be a worthy first baseman, he could stay at that position, giving the club some wiggle room to trade for a right-handed hitting outfielder. Nick Castellanos played out in right on Friday. With Harper at first, Philly has Kyle Schwarber as their designated hitter of choice.

So while it seems as though the move could be temporary, the truth is there is a master plan in motion behind the scenes to help improve the roster as the Phillies commence a second-half push for a playoff spot.