While Phillies fans have been anxiously awaiting the return of their beloved No. 3, they may not have to wait much longer. After landing on the IL on June 6, Bryce Harper appears close to rejoining the starting lineup. According to Paul Casella of MLB.com, Harper is expected back this week—potentially as early as Monday.
Harper traveled with the team to Atlanta for this past weekend’s series against the Braves and faced live pitching at Truist Park before Saturday’s game. According to the Associated Press, that contest marked the 21st consecutive game the former MVP has missed since the injury.
“He was great,” noted Phillies manager Rob Thomson. “Looked like he got his bat speed and his timing looked fine.”
“If you had told me three weeks ago [I’d be] where I am now, I would have said you’re kind of crazy,” shared Harper. “So I’m very happy with where I am. I’m way farther ahead than I felt like I would be. Definitely way healthier than I was a couple weeks ago.”
Is Thomson ruling out an activation for Monday’s game against the Padres? “No, not necessarily,” said the manager.
Such news is music to the ears of Phillies fans, eager for their star’s return as the push for Red October continues.
In 213 at-bats this season, Harper is hitting .258 with 9 home runs, 34 RBIs, and a .368 on-base percentage.
The Phillies’ next two series are at home, welcoming San Diego on Monday for three games and Cincinnati on Friday for another three.
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