Bryce Harper was placed on the 10-day injured list on June 7 due to inflammation in his right wrist, with the move retroactive to June 6. Since then, Harper has been wearing a brace on the injured wrist, and the Phillies are closely monitoring his recovery. According to Phillies manager Rob Thomson on June 15, the range of motion in Harper’s wrist is nearly back to normal, allowing him to take ground balls. However, Harper has not yet resumed throwing or hitting activities.
Phillies Leadership Remains Optimistic About Harper’s Return
Dave Dombrowski, Phillies president of baseball operations, addressed the injury during a pregame show on June 17. He expressed confidence that Harper’s right wrist inflammation will not have significant long-term consequences. Though no specific date for Harper’s return has been announced, Dombrowski indicated that it is unlikely to require an extended absence from the Philadelphia lineup.
“He’s been cleared to go ahead and get back in the lineup whenever he feels comfortable to do that,”
Dombrowski said.
Aaron Nola Continues Rehab from Rib Injury
Meanwhile, the Phillies’ right-hander Aaron Nola remains sidelined with a stress fracture in his right rib, extending his time on the 15-day injured list. Initially diagnosed with a sprained right ankle in May, Nola disclosed on June 13 that his main injury is now a stress fracture, causing pain during deep breaths, certain movements, and throwing attempts. Phillies manager Rob Thomson had previously described the injury as a stress reaction.
Nola has been shut down from throwing while waiting for the rib to fully heal. He remains uncertain about the timing of his return, stating,
“I don’t really have any answers right now.”
Once back, Nola will likely need multiple rehab starts to regain his form as a starter, making a return during the first half of the season improbable.
Overall Team Health and Impact on Phillies Season
The Phillies are coping with multiple key injuries, including Harper’s and Nola’s, which have contributed to the team’s struggles recently. Some commentators have pointed out a slump affecting the team’s overall performance, though others note favorable game outcomes, including a strong run with only a single loss in ten games. Injuries to starters and position players like Nick Castellanos, who recently missed games due to disciplinary reasons, also affect team dynamics.
Meanwhile, emerging talent in the minor leagues is gaining attention as potential reinforcements. Fans and analysts have highlighted promising players ready for Major League Baseball debuts, discussing options for outfield replacements given current injuries and lineup needs.
Looking Ahead: What Harper’s Recovery Means for the Phillies
The improvement in Bryce Harper’s right wrist inflammation represents an encouraging sign for the Phillies as they aim to stabilize their roster. Harper’s return, when he feels prepared to rejoin, could strengthen the lineup and help the team recover from recent setbacks. Additionally, Aaron Nola’s recovery progress will be critical for restoring pitching depth later in the season.
Phillies management remains cautious but hopeful that these injuries will not derail the team’s overall season goals. Ongoing updates on player health and performance will continue to shape the team’s strategy as they approach the midseason stretch.
“The range of motion in Harper’s wrist is almost back to where it should be. He is cleared to take ground balls.”
—Rob Thomson, Phillies Manager
“He’s been cleared to go ahead and get back in the lineup whenever he feels comfortable to do that.”
—Dave Dombrowski, Phillies President of Baseball Operations
“I don’t really have any answers right now.”
—Aaron Nola, Phillies Pitcher