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Bryce Harper after Phillies’ early playoff exit: ‘You’re here to win games, and we didn’t’

Bryce Harper isn't making excuses for the Philadelphia Phillies' playoff exit. The Phillies lost 6-2 to the Atlanta Braves in the deciding Game 3 of their National League Wild Card series. Harper said the team didn't win games when it…

Published: Friday, 2 October 2026 at 5:02 AM
Bryce Harper after Phillies’ early playoff exit: ‘You’re here to win games, and we didn’t’
Key Things to Know
  • Bryce Harper expressed frustration after the Philadelphia Phillies were eliminated from the postseason with a 6-2 loss to Atlanta.
  • The Atlanta Braves defeated Philadelphia in deciding Game 3 of the NL Wild Card Series.
  • Michael Harris II hit a decisive three-run homer off Aaron Nola in the first inning.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Bryce Harper and the Philadelphia Phillies were eliminated from the postseason following a 6-2 loss to the Atlanta Braves in Game 3 of their NL Wild Card Series on Thursday in Atlanta. Harper voiced frustration in a quiet clubhouse, stating that the team is there to win games and failed to do so. The loss marked Philadelphia's fifth straight season falling short of a World Series title.

Atlanta gained early control when Michael Harris II hit a first-inning, three-run home run off Phillies starter Aaron Nola, who was pulled in the second inning. Opener Ray Kerr and bulk reliever Grant Holmes held Philadelphia in check, closing out the series. The defeat concluded a turbulent season for the Phillies, who rallied under interim manager Don Mattingly after firing Rob Thomson in April.

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