Bryce Harper was asked to explain what it’s like playing in Philadelphia, and his response was nothing short of perfect, in a way only he can deliver.
“I don’t think you can. I don’t think you can really describe it until you really live it and understand what it’s all about. And I think the message last year was like if you don’t understand it, we don’t want you here…It’s passionate, it’s hard, it’s a lot of fun.”
Harper then added, “I love October.” While he enjoys football, Halloween, and his birthday during this month, those events are just the backdrop to what really matters to him—another chance to pursue his true goal. Everything comes together this Saturday when the Phillies take on the New York Mets in Game 1 of the National League Division Series at Citizens Bank Park.
This will be Harper’s 50th postseason appearance, 30 of which have come in the last two years. During that time, Harper has proven to be the top performer in playoff baseball, leading in hits, home runs, runs scored, and OPS. These aren’t just stats showing the Phillies’ success; Harper has been the driving force behind it all.
What is Red October?
Red October is the rallying cry that ignites the energy of Phillies fans during the playoffs. The stadium becomes a place visiting teams describe as “four hours of hell,” a phrase that sums up the intense, passionate environment that fans create, all through two simple words.
As the Phillies prepare for another Red October, they’re entering the postseason for the third year in a row. This time, the goal is clear: to go all the way and win it all.
When the Phillies make the playoffs, the city of Philadelphia comes alive. Fans deck out in team colors, gather at watch parties, and pack Citizens Bank Park, creating an electric atmosphere filled with hopes for a championship.
At 31, Harper just wrapped up his sixth regular season with the Phillies, finishing with an impressive .285/.373/.525 line, 42 doubles, 30 home runs, and 87 RBIs.
He’s about to kick off his third postseason with the team, aiming to build on his already legendary playoff legacy. Harper currently shares the franchise record for postseason home runs, tied with teammate Kyle Schwarber at 11.
In 30 postseason games with the Phillies, Harper has slashed .324/.432/.705 with an OPS of 1.137, delivering countless clutch moments. Only Lenny Dykstra holds a better Phillies playoff OPS, but Dykstra played in just 12 postseason games.
On Thursday, Harper reassured fans that he’s ready for the challenge: “I feel good, I feel ready to go. Mentally, physically, I feel ready to get this thing started on Saturday.”
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