The Latest Breaking News from Bryce Harper

PHILADELPHIA — The offseason was less than an hour old when the annual lobbying campaign began. Somebody asked Bryce Harper if he wanted to send a message to the fans about the Phillies’ determination to repeat as National League champs. Instead, he responded with a message that seemed intended for…

PHILADELPHIA — A Phillies slugger committed 51 errors in his first six seasons playing first base in the majors. He also hit 148 home runs in his first 2,887 plate appearances.

Trey Mancini and Chas McCormick came through when Houston needed them.

Verlander overcame an early jolt to grit out the victory that long eluded him, and rookie Jeremy Peña hit a go-ahead home run for a 3-2 victory.

PHILADELPHIA — As the Phillies took their positions and made a few warmup throws before the sixth inning Thursday night, Nick Castellanos squatted in right field, alone with his thoughts.

Justin Verlander gutted out his first Fall Classic win to put Houston one win away from the title.

HOUSTON — It was the best of nights. It was the worst of nights.

SAN DIEGO — You can't find a World Series trophy in the Padres' display case, but an artist's paint brush, cast in gold, would be appropriate, in honor of three select Padres greats — each one homegrown — who dominated with flair and unorthodox brilliance that made them more interesting.

PHILADELPHIA — As Cristian Javier walked off the mound for the final time Wednesday night, he kissed his hand and looked skyward. In that moment, with the Houston Astros right-hander in complete control of Game 4 of the World Series, it was difficult to say which of his feats was…