To live out one’s passion is a dream that doesn’t come true for everyone. But even those hardworking and lucky enough to do it aren’t free from their troubles. For Bryce Harper, it’s his family. The Philadelphia Phillies slugger has been on a hot hitting streak, racking up stats. But for all his accomplishments, Harper would still choose another job over baseball if he could – being a dad.

Married to Kayla Varner, the couple has two kids – a three-year-old son as well as a two-year-old daughter. As for any athlete, Harper’s schedule limits his interaction with his family, and he sorely misses them. But he is a dad through and through and even helped a lost kid a few weeks ago. Then in a recent pregame interview, the DH opened up about balancing baseball and fatherhood with tears in his eyes.

Bryce Harper’s Family Brings Tears to His Eyes

Juggling a busy schedule while spending time with family is not the easiest thing in the world. And Bryce Harper wants fans to know. On August 21st, the Phillies player sat down with ESPN ahead of a game with the Washington Nationals to discuss his family.

“They are the light of my life, man. They make me happy every day, they thrill me every day. People don’t understand, you know, you get taken away from them a lot as they grow up,” Harper gushes. “As you guys know in the media, in professional sports, you’re always on the road, always traveling, you miss their first steps, you miss the way they talk. I’m missing them right now. I’m getting emotional, I just love my kids so much.”

Then the camera points to his family in the audience, with his wife and two kids waiting to watch him. And Harper says, “It’s a blast, I love being a dad. There’s nothing like it, there’s nothing better. All this doesn’t mean anything compared to being a dad.”

Harper’s Confession Melts Baseball Fans

Today, Bryce Harper is a beloved Phillies figure for his outstanding play. But interestingly, when the right fielder started out his career, his reputation was more that of a ‘bad boy’, given his long hair and perpetually dirty uniform, and general rebellious air.

READ MORE – Days After Announcing Move to Tennessee, Philadelphia Phillies Star Bryce Harper Exits Game After Tragic Incident

But now he’s a genuine family man. And fans love it, praising Harper for having his priorities right.

There was not a dry eye in the house.

Truly, who wouldn’t appreciate such a sweet moment? The Harpers are lucky to have him!

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