Phillies’ Bryce Harper calmly responds to alleged ‘negative reception’ from Nationals fans on Opening Day

Bryce Harper couldn’t be happier after helping the Philadelphia Phillies secure a victory in their first game of the 2025 season. It was a strong start for the team, but not everyone at Nationals Park welcomed him warmly. Some Washington Nationals fans made their feelings known by booing Harper during the game.

Despite the negative reception, Harper remained calm and addressed the situation with composure. “I love my relationship with the workers [at Nationals Park], I like them a lot, going through the tunnel and talking to everybody, and they told me they love me…” he said. He added that anyone who watched him during his time with the Nationals knows the kind of player and person he is.

As for the boos, Harper simply shrugged them off, saying, “It’s part of it.” Reporter Mark Zuckerman noted that while Trea Turner, Kyle Schwarber, and Joe Ross were well received by Nationals fans, Harper was met with boos as if it were his first time returning since joining the Phillies.

On the field, Harper struck out twice but contributed with two runs, a hit, and a home run, finishing the game with a .250 batting average. It was a productive day for both him and Schwarber, who also recorded two runs in the Phillies’ 7-3 victory.

Harper could be in for a big 2025 season

Last season, Harper logged 631 plate appearances—the most since 2019—and could reach a similar mark in 2025 if he stays healthy. According to Baseball Reference projections, he’s expected to have 570 plate appearances with 24 home runs, 137 hits, 79 runs, and a .278 batting average.

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Harper praises Alec Bohm

Alec Bohm’s strong Opening Day performance didn’t go unnoticed, earning praise from Harper. The Phillies star emphasized how well-liked Bohm is in the clubhouse, saying, “A lot of guys in here, including myself, we love that kid over there.” Bohm finished the game with five at-bats, a .400 average, one run, two hits, and two RBIs.