The Philadelphia Phillies have found a winning combination in the postseason with the powerful duo of Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber.
Over the past two postseasons, Harper and Schwarber have hit a total of 22 home runs, with 11 each.
Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber have combined for 22 HR in the last 2 postseasons (11 each).
That is the most combined HR by a duo over a 2-year span in the playoffs in MLB history. pic.twitter.com/YHG66Xa2wV
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) October 22, 2023
This incredible feat makes them the duo with the most combined home runs over a two-year span in playoff history, according to the Elias Sports Bureau.
But that’s not all, with their impressive home run totals, Harper and Schwarber have also climbed to the top of the Phillies’ all-time postseason home run leaderboard, tying with Jayson Werth. This is quite an achievement considering the rich history of the franchise.
Harper’s impact in the playoffs goes beyond just hitting home runs. In the first inning of a game, Harper executed a rare steal of home, becoming just the second player in postseason history to hit a home run and steal home in the same game.
Randy Arozarena of the Tampa Bay Rays achieved this feat in the 2021 ALDS Game 1. This steal of home added to the Phillies’ early lead, as Schwarber had already scored the game’s opening run.
While Harper’s contributions are undeniable, Schwarber has also played a crucial role in the Phillies’ success.
In the first inning of a game against Arizona, Schwarber reached first base on an infield single, followed by Harper’s single to advance him to second.
Bryson Stott then hit a single that brought Schwarber home, putting runners on first and third. This early lead set the tone for the game and gave the Phillies added confidence.
Harper’s impact extends beyond individual games. Remarkably, his teams have won 11 consecutive postseason games in which he has hit a home run, marking the longest streak for any player in postseason history.
This streak includes all 10 games in which Harper has hit a home run for the Phillies in the playoffs, as well as his final home run for the Washington Nationals.
With their victory in Game 5, the Phillies have the opportunity to close out the series and eliminate the Arizona Diamondbacks in Game 6, which will be played at home on Monday.
