Is Bryce Harper Overrated?

Bryce Harper is currently one of the biggest names in MLB. Some love him, while others hate him. Before the 2019 season Harper signed a mega contract with the Philadelphia Phillies for $330 over the course of 13 years. Many think that the former National League MVP is overrated because of his contract and the way MLB markets him. However while in one point of his career he may have been overrated that is not the case today.

The biggest reason why Harper is not overrated is because his is not necessarily rated that high. He is seen as a star in todays MLB, not the best of the best, but a damn good ballplayer. That is quite frankly what he is. He does not hit for the highest average but he has no problem getting on base as he posted a .372 OBP. He also has pop in his bat as he is good for about 30-35 home runs a year.

Another aspect of Harper's game that has been criticized was his defense. However he made big changes to his defensive game in 2019. He recorded -24 DRS in 2018 and and improved up all the way to 10 in 2019. Harper seems to have figured out how to hold down the right side of the outfield. While Harper will be entering the second year of his lengthy, thirteen year deal he will have the opportunity to silence all his critics by putting up yet another great season.