Bryce Harper’s top 5 home runs of 2023

Bryce Harper hit 21 home runs in the regular season. (Kyle Ross/Icon Sportswire)

Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper’s 2023 season was one of the most intriguing of his career as he made a miraculous recovery from Tommy John surgery and went on to learn a new defensive position at first base as the year progressed. His production at the plate, however, was only as expected from the two-time NL MVP.

In 126 games, Harper hit 21 home runs while posting a .900 OPS, his fifth time with an OPS of .900 or higher in his career. He also provided a number of memorable — even signature — moments as the Phillies made it back to the NLCS before collapsing to the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Here’s a look at the top five home runs of Year 5 of Harper’s 13-year contract in Philadelphia:

5. Birthday Bash

Stepping to the plate in Game 1 of the NLCS on his 31st birthday, Harper helped Citizens Bank Park celebrate in style. The left-handed hitter launched a solo home run to right-center field for the Phillies second long ball of the bottom of the first inning against D-Backs starter Zac Gallen to kick off a win and a party in the seats.

4. Hello, Pole

With the Phillies trailing by three in the bottom of the ninth on Aug. 23, Harper delivered a laser down the right-field line with two men on — all it had to do was stay fair. The line drive against Giants closer Camilo Doval hit the foul pole and sharply shot back onto the field for a dramatic three-run, game-tying homer. Unfortunately for the Phillies, this didn’t prove to be enough to win the game, as they lost 8-6 in extras.

3. In Stride

The Phillies went into Atlanta for Game 1 of the NLDS hoping to steal a win in a bullpen game against Braves ace Spencer Strider. And as the pitching staff shut it down, Harper provided a spark and some insurance as he took Strider deep in the top of the sixth at Truist Park to help secure an all-time Phillies victory.

2. Mr. 300

Harper reached a career milestone with a bang on Aug. 30 as he skyed his 300th home run high into the air and over the wall for a go-ahead bomb. Down one against the Angels in the bottom of the eight, the slugger came up clutch with a significant two-run homer.

1. Atta Boy

Harper’s baserunning mistake to end an NLDS Game 2 loss may have earned him some jabs from Braves shortstop Orlando Arcia, but it’s clear who came out on top. A two-for-one special in Game 3, Harper blasted two home runs in a blowout win, giving Arcia a stare as he rounded the bases both times. Atta boy, Harper, indeed.