Phillies Send Blue Jays, Vladimir Guerrero Jr Message Amid Bryce Harper Surge

BusinessSportsMoneyPhillies Send Blue Jays, Vladimir Guerrero Jr Message Amid Bryce Harper SurgeByPeter Chawaga,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Peter Chawaga is a writer and editor covering Major League Baseball.Follow AuthorMay 17, 2026, 07:00am EDTTORONTO, CANADA - MAY 8: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. #27 of the Toronto Blue Jays looks on against the Los Angeles Angels in their MLB game at Rogers Centre on May 8, 2026 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Kevin Sousa/Getty Images)Editorial Image Credit line infoThe Philadelphia Phillies have recovered to a neutral record after a brutal start to the season.After falling into a deep hole in the standings, the Phillies fired long-time manager Rob Thomson and promoted bench coach Don Mattingly to lead the team. Since then, the Phillies have performed much better and it’s clear that the shakeup at the top has made a positive difference.“Philadelphia has responded to the change,” the Associated Press reported. “The Phillies are back to .500 (23-23) for the first time since April 13 after taking the first two games in Pittsburgh, including a thrilling 11-9 10-inning comeback win on Friday night.”ForbesBlue Jays’ All-Star Replacement Sends Trade Message With Roster Move LoomingBy Peter ChawagaPhiladelphia Phillies’ Franchise Slugger Bryce Harper Praises Don Mattingly Amid SurgeWhether Mattingly’s changes are practical or merely the introduction of a new voice with similar temperament and philosophy, he has clearly been a positive influence on the team. And no player has benefited more than franchise slugger Bryce Harper, who was openly challenged by president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski shortly after last season.In 2025, Harper slashed .261/.357/.487, one of the worst lines of his career. But so far in this season, Harper’s averages are up to .282/.372/.534, and it’s starting to seem as if he will be a lock to represent Philadelphia as they host the All-Star game this...