During the Phillies’ annual organizational meetings at Citizens Bank Park, hitting coach Kevin Long discussed several key players and the team’s outlook following another frustrating postseason. Before leaving Philadelphia, Long joined Phillies Extra, The Inquirer’s baseball podcast, to share thoughts on Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, Trea Turner, and others.
On Bryce Harper’s 2025 Season
Long said Harper’s year was shaped by a right-wrist injury early on and a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection that sidelined him temporarily. Despite the setback, Harper still produced strong numbers — 27 home runs and 75 RBIs — even with limited at-bats.
“If he had played another month,” Long said, “maybe that’s 35 homers and 98 RBIs. So we’re talking small differences.”
Long noted that Harper saw fewer strikes than almost anyone in baseball and may have expanded his strike zone too often. Still, he praised Harper’s consistency and impact:
“He’s a superstar. He’s an impact bat in the middle of the order, and we’re lucky to have him.”
On Kyle Schwarber’s Free Agency
Long has worked with Schwarber for four years, including during their time with the Nationals. Asked about the chances Schwarber stays in Philadelphia, he was optimistic:
“I think it’s very high. The owner wants him, Dave Dombrowski wants him, the coaches and Rob Thomson want him — and the fans do too. And so does Kyle.”
The question, he said, is whether the team is willing to meet Schwarber’s market value.
“I think the answer is yes. It would be devastating for the organization and the fan base if he weren’t a Phillie.”
Long added that everyone in the clubhouse believes Schwarber belongs in Philadelphia and that he expects him to return.
On Trea Turner’s 2025 Turnaround
Long praised Turner’s commitment to improvement after a challenging previous season.
“There comes a point when a player looks at what he needs to do to become who he knows he can be. Trea did that — he worked, adjusted, and performed at the highest level.”
Before injuring his ankle in September, Turner was on pace for 200 hits and 100 runs and led the league in batting average. Long also reflected on Turner’s emotional resilience after losing his mother last year:
“She would have been so proud. It’s emotional for me because I knew Donna. What Trea accomplished after going through that makes me incredibly proud.”
Summary:
- Harper’s production dipped slightly but remained strong despite injuries.
- Schwarber’s return is considered highly likely; losing him would be a major blow.
- Turner delivered an elite season through hard work and perseverance.
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