Phillies should feel confident in Bryce Harper bouncing back in second game

After a rough Opening Day, the Philadelphia Phillies should feel confident in Bryce Harper bouncing back on Saturday when facing the Atlanta Braves.

While the Philadelphia Phillies started off their 2019 season in one of the hottest ways possible, Bryce Harper didn’t exactly have the best debut on offense for his new team, although there’s obviously no reason for concern.

Defeating the Atlanta Braves 10-4 was a huge statement for the Phillies in regards to showing this year is going to be different from previous seasons when it comes to being a contender in the National League.

However, after all of the hype surrounding Harper following his previous record-setting deal, it was somewhat disappointing to watch the star outfielder fail to record a single hit in his Philadelphia debut after going 0-for-3 with two strikeouts and a run.

Whether he was feeling nervous playing in front of the Philadelphia crowd for the first time in a Phillies uniform or simply the fact that it was an off day, it was frustrating to watch Harper struggle on offense, but also there’s no reason for concern.

Baseball is a long season, and Philadelphia knows these kind of games are going to happen every once in a while for Harper. If anything, the Phillies should just be thrilled over the opportunity Harper finds himself in for Saturday’s second game against the Braves in which he seems to be in great position to bounce back.

With Atlanta sending rookie Bryse Wilson to the mound, Harper will hopefully figure out a way to take advantage of the inexperienced pitcher in the big leagues by finally getting that first hit, or better yet a home run.

Either way, as long as Harper figures out a way to contribute with his bat to put the Phillies in great position to win, and start the year off 2-0, this is all that matters the most.

Deep down, Philadelphia knows the hits are going to start rolling eventually with Harper as he continues to adjust to playing with his new team.

But with a favorable matchup on Saturday for the second meeting of the year against the Braves, don’t be surprised if Harper has the kind of monster game to help eliminate some of the early pressure he’s been dealing with as one of the newest members of the Phillies.