10 Moments That Prove Bryce Harper Is Built for October
Bryce Harper has delivered some of the most decisive and impactful moments in recent postseason baseball history.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
Bryce Harper’s postseason performances have consistently shown his ability to rise in high-pressure situations. His clutch hits, bold plays, and visible leadership have helped shape the outcome of multiple playoff series. These 10 moments show how Harper continues to meet and exceed expectations in October.
1. 2022 NLCS Game 5 Home Run Against the Padres
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In the bottom of the eighth inning with the Phillies trailing by one, Bryce Harper hit a two-run home run to put them ahead. It was his second hit of the game and came on a 2-2 count against Robert Suárez. The home run sent the Phillies to the World Series for the first time since 2009. Harper was named NLCS MVP for his consistent performance throughout the series.
2. 2022 Wild Card Game 2 Home Run in St. Louis
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Facing the Cardinals in the Wild Card round, Harper hit a solo home run in the second inning of Game 2. It was his first postseason home run with the Phillies. The hit gave Philadelphia an early lead in a close game they eventually won to advance. Harper’s swing gave the team a psychological edge and energized the lineup.
3. Three Home Runs in 2023 NLDS Game 3 vs. Braves
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Harper hit three home runs off Braves starter Bryce Elder in Game 3 of the 2023 NLDS. The first came in the third inning, a three-run shot to center field. His second was a solo homer in the fifth inning. He finished the game with four RBIs, leading the Phillies to a 10–2 win and a 2–1 series lead.
4. 2023 NLDS Stare After Homer and Base Running
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In Game 3 of the 2023 NLDS, Harper stared at Braves shortstop Orlando Arcia after each of his home runs. Arcia had reportedly mocked Harper after his Game 2 baserunning error. Harper’s response was calm but direct and reflected his focus. His play and behavior helped shift the tone of the series.
5. Home Run in First At-Bat of 2022 NLDS
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In Game 1 of the 2022 NLDS against the Braves, Harper hit a solo home run in the sixth inning. It was part of a 7–6 win that gave the Phillies a 1–0 lead in the series. The hit showed Harper’s timing and ability to perform early in games. It also contributed to building momentum for the team.
6. Aggressive Base Running vs. Braves, 2023 NLDS Game 4
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In a key play during Game 4 of the 2023 NLDS, Harper scored from second on a single by Nick Castellanos. His read on the ball and aggressive decision to round third base helped extend the Phillies’ lead. The play happened with two outs and required perfect timing. It showed Harper’s awareness and trust in his instincts.
7. 2014 NLDS Home Run at Nationals Park
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During Game 1 of the 2014 NLDS, Harper hit a towering home run to the second deck at Nationals Park. The home run came in the seventh inning and cut into the Giants’ lead. At 21 years old, Harper became the youngest player in franchise history to homer in the postseason. It marked the beginning of his reputation as a playoff performer.
8. 2017 NLDS Game-Tying Home Run vs. Cubs
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In Game 2 of the 2017 NLDS, Harper hit a two-run home run in the eighth inning to tie the game. The Nationals were down by two runs before the homer. It sparked a five-run inning that helped Washington win 6–3. Harper’s swing changed the direction of the game in a single at-bat.
9. 2015 NLDS Home Run at Citi Field
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Harper hit a no-doubt solo home run off Mets pitcher Matt Harvey in Game 3 of the 2015 NLDS. The hit was one of the few offensive highlights for the Nationals in the series. It showed Harper’s ability to respond to elite pitching. Though Washington lost the series, Harper remained a consistent contributor.
10. Postgame Interviews Highlighting Team Focus
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After key playoff games, Harper often credits teammates and talks about team performance rather than focusing on himself. His interviews in 2022 and 2023 reflect a mindset focused on group success. He often praises pitchers, coaches, and the fans for their roles. This attitude strengthens his role as a leader in the clubhouse.