MLB News: Bryce Harper sends strong message ahead of Phillies showdown with undefeated Dodgers

Bryce Harper prepares to face the undefeated Los Angeles Dodgers at home in what could be a tough matchup for the Philadelphia Phillies, who are determined to protect their current three-game winning streak after a perfect series at home.

Ahead of the Phillies’ showdown with the 8-0 Dodgers, Harper delivered a bold statement, saying, “I feel like only losers complain about what they’re doing,” referring to the criticism surrounding the Dodgers’ heavy spending on acquiring and developing talent over the years.

“I think they’re a great team, they’re a great organization—that’s why guys want to go there and play,” Harper said. “L.A. is a great city to play in, obviously. They’re at the mecca of the world—everything from food to nightlife to sports, from the Dodgers to the Lakers to anybody.”

Harper spoke with both respect and clarity about how he views the Dodgers, acknowledging that they’re undefeated and a competitive powerhouse. Still, the Phillies—who are 5-1 after dropping just one game in the opening week of the 2025 MLB season—are also in strong form.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – APRIL 3: Bryce Harper #3 of the Philadelphia Phillies swings at a pitch in the first inning during a game against the Colorado Rockies at Citizens Bank Park on April 3, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Phillies won 3-1. (Photo by Hunter Martin/Getty Images)

Phillies dominated in their home opener

The Phillies looked sharp in their 2025 home opener, sweeping the Rockies 3-0 and allowing just one run in each game—a testament to the team’s impressive pitching and explosive offense.

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Harper has had a solid start to the season. Through six games, he’s batting .269 with a .719 OPS. He’s recorded one home run, two RBIs, and hits in five of the six games, totaling seven so far this season.

Dodgers still haven’t won on U.S. soil

While the Dodgers enter the series at 8-0, it’s worth noting that two of those wins came in Japan to open the season, and the remaining six were at home. They have yet to win a road game on U.S. soil this season.