When it comes to Bryce Harper, it has been all about the numbers this offseason.
How much money will he get. How many years will he sign. How many days until he finally makes a decision.
Well, after signing his 13-year, $330 million deal, now only one number matters for Harper -- No. 3.
That is the number Harper will be wearing for the Phillies, an iconic number in Philadelphia sports, as it was worn by one of the best athletes the city has ever seen in Allen Iverson. The number has been retired by the Sixers.
As to why Harper didn't pick No. 34, the number he wore during his time in Washington, the decision likely had to do with the fact that No. 34 was worn by Roy Hallady during his time with the Phillies. Although the number isn't retired, the Phillies have not given it out since Halladay passed away, and it is likely no player will ever wear it again.
Here is the first look at Harper's jersey:
We're ready for you, @Bharper3407. pic.twitter.com/4uUKu21i4P
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) March 2, 2019Harper, 26, may not be the best player in MLB, but he is baseball's biggest star. The former 2010 No. 1 overall pick won the National League MVP in 2015, putting together one of the finest seasons in recent memory, as he slashed .330/.460/.649 with 42 home runs, 99 RBIs, 124 walks and a 9.3 fWAR.
Now that he has his number, it is only a matter of time until his jersey is amongst the top selling in MLB.
You can reach Eliot Shorr-Parks on Twitter at @EliotShorrParks or email him at esp@94wip.com!
