Bryce Harper is quickly making a great impression on the city of Philadelphia.
The 26-year-old kicked things off by signing a 13-year, $330 million contract (which in hindsight could look relatively team-friendly) with the Phillies and will now join a talented roster including Rhys Hoskins with the hopes of bringing the city its first World Series since 2008. Today, Harper was officially introduced by the team and there was one noticeable detail in his press conference. Rather than wearing his traditional #34, the outfielder will now rock #3. Why?
Because of the late pitching legend Roy Halladay.
Pure class.
A member of the Phillies from 2010-2013, Halladay was lights out during his time with the team, capturing a Cy Young in 2010 and making the All-Star game in both 2010 and 2011. He is a member of the Phillies’ Wall of Fame and was inducted into Baseball’s Hall of Fame on January 22, 2019, less than two years after passing away from a tragic plane crash.
#3 may not be what Harper’s been accustomed to wearing, but another Philly sports icon made sure to share his thoughts on the change. Remember that Allen Iverson guy? Wore #3 for the 76ers? Yeah, he chimed in as well.
Just an overall great move from one of the game’s top players.
(H/T John Clark)
