Harper's new drill, Wheeler's sweeper spin and more Phillies notes

May 7, 2026 - 21:37

Bryce Harper is trying something new at the plate, and early results suggest it might be working. The Phillies slugger has incorporated a drill he picked up during his time with Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, focusing on a more controlled swing path through the zone. The goal is simple: make better contact on pitches inside the strike zone. For a hitter known for chasing and still producing, any improvement in that area could mean a jump from great to elite. Teammates have noticed a quieter, more deliberate setup in the cage, and the early spring at-bats reflect that discipline.

Meanwhile, Zack Wheeler is showing a different look on the mound. After undergoing surgery in the offseason, his signature sweeper pitch has taken on a new shape. The sweeping slider, which was already a weapon, now features a slightly different break and velocity band. Wheeler has been careful not to overexert it in camp, but the early feedback from catchers is positive. They describe the movement as sharper and more horizontal, making it tougher for hitters to track out of the hand.

In other camp notes, the Phillies are experimenting with defensive alignments in the outfield, trying to maximize range with a deeper starting depth. The team is also monitoring the workload of several relievers, aiming to keep arms fresh for the long season ahead. No major roster moves are expected before Opening Day, but the coaching staff is clearly fine-tuning the details that could make a difference in October.