After Fiery Display Sunday, Has Bryce Harper Matured Throughout His MLB Career?

Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper caused a benches clearing incident on Sunday. But has Harper matured and shown he is a natural leader?

Bryce Harper has repeatedly said that he’s not going to change just because he’s fresh off Tommy John surgery.

Just look at Sunday’s game against the Colorado Rockies for more proof.

Harper isn’t altering anything.

Harper’s fiery personality was on display when he took exception with Rockies pitcher Jake Bird appearing to mock the Philadelphia Phillies as he went to the dugout.

Harper came charging out of the dugout and voiced his displeasure.

“I never want to put myself in danger of getting hurt or anything like that,” Harper told reporters. “But like I said, when anyone does anything to my teammates or anything like that, I don’t agree with that. That’s kind of how I react when people are coming after my team.”

The passionate Phillies fan base has been behind Harper since he signed a 13-year, $330 million deal. Harper gives 100 percent all the time and has continually produced in clutch moments.

And he’s always quick to show that fiery side.

How can you not love that grit?

“It’s a little bit unsettling, understanding Harper’s elbow,” manager Rob Thomson said. “But he’s protecting his teammates, and that’s what this group does. They protect each other. They fight for each other. And I’m proud of him for it.”

Harper’s emotional leadership is obvious.

His teammates all came out to protect him once the benches cleared.

“We all have each other’s backs,” Kyle Schwarber said. “Whenever somebody says something to one of our guys, there’s going to be 26 guys coming out.”

The Phillies lost the game, 4-0, but they had won five straight before that. They’re definitely playing better. If there was any question about the leadership on this team, well, that question was answered.

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