Phillies: Bryce Harper has 1 wish for Spencer Howard’s debut
By Matt Rappa
Phillies outfielder Bryce Harper wants Spencer Howard to take in the moment
The day has finally come for Philadelphia Phillies top pitching prospect Spencer Howard.
Although the right-hander did not start out the 2020 season with the team, he will still make his MLB debut no more than one-sixth of the way through the Phillies’ 60-game sprint.
Star outfielder Bryce Harper vocally advocated for Howard being called up sooner a few games sooner, but, as the saying goes — better late than never.
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Following Saturday evening’s 5-0 shutout victory over the Atlanta Braves at Citizens Bank Park, Harper already began looking ahead to the team’s doubleheader. At least one of the games will be Howard’s for the taking.
“This is where it starts. It’s not minor league ball anymore or anything like that. It starts now,” Harper said. “I am excited to see what he does. I’m excited to get him up here and get him acclimated to this team, what we do, and how we go about it.”
After #Phillies win over #Braves Saturday night Bryce Harper is looking forward to rookie P Spencer Howard getting first start in one of the games in Sunday doubleheader. @SportsRadioWIP pic.twitter.com/Bx7oOhp5Ul
— Howard Eskin (@howardeskin) August 9, 2020
Harper called Howard a “great competitor” who has a lot of “plus” stuff within his pitching repertoire.
“I think Philly fans and this organization should be very excited to see what Spence does,” Harper continued. “He just needs to keep working hard, doing his thing, and just be Spence. That’s the biggest thing; when guys get up here, they try to change this or change that. And, people want to see them do this or do that.”
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The six-time All-Star went on to reveal his one wish for Howard in his Sunday debut against the Phillies’ National League East rival. And, it doesn’t necessarily involve pitching performance.
“My biggest thing is, when guys get up here and when guys play, I want them to be able to enjoy themselves,” Harper said. “I want them to take in the moment and really know that they have the stuff to get here and to be here.”
“I’m really excited to see what he does,” Harper added. “I just want him to enjoy the moment; enjoy with himself, his family, his teammates, and just everybody around.”