Bryce Harper, who has been sidelined with right wrist inflammation since June 6, is scheduled to face live pitching on Saturday in Atlanta as part of his recovery process. The Phillies placed him on the 10-day injured list on June 7, and his progress suggests a potential return to the lineup next week, coinciding with the team‘s home series against the Padres at Citizens Bank Park.
Details of Harper’s Recovery and Live Pitching Session
After taking batting practice on the field last Friday, Harper is set to continue his rehabilitation by facing live pitching. To aid this session, the Phillies flew in two right-handed minor league pitchers, Joel Kuhnel and Jack Dallas, to Atlanta, ensuring Harper receives high-quality pitching practice. Harper expressed optimism regarding his return, telling Scott Lauber of the Philadelphia Inquirer,
“I think next week is definitely in play.”
This update indicates the team is cautiously moving forward with his recovery plan as he approaches activation from the injured list.
Other Phillies Injuries Affecting the Roster
Alongside Harper’s injury concerns, the Phillies are managing the absence of ace pitcher Aaron Nola, who is currently on the 60-day injured list due to a stress fracture on his right rib. Nola’s condition came after an initial sprained right ankle diagnosis in May, and Phillies manager Rob Thomson initially labeled it a stress reaction before confirming the fracture. Nola has been progressing with limited throwing exercises, having played catch inside the batting cages on June 22, with plans to attempt outdoor throwing from a distance shortly thereafter. His return is anticipated during the second half of the MLB season, adding another key player’s recovery timeline to the team’s considerations.
Team Outlook as Injuries Impact Performance
Injuries to key players like Harper and Nola contribute to roster challenges for the Phillies this season. The team has experienced fluctuating results, and although some fans have debated whether the team is in a slump, the club remains competitive, as reflected in a strong recent winning record. Discussions among fans also highlight emerging talent waiting in the wings, such as a promising center fielder currently performing well at the Triple-A level, ready to make his MLB debut. This emergence may provide fresh options to manage playing time as injured starters return.
Implications for the Phillies’ Upcoming Schedule
With Bryce Harper targeting a return next week during the series against the Padres and Aaron Nola expected back in the latter half of the season, the Phillies hope to strengthen their lineup and pitching rotation as the campaign progresses. Harper’s live pitching session in Atlanta marks a significant milestone in his rehabilitation, and the team is monitoring his progress closely. The gradual reintegration of key players could improve the Phillies’ overall performance and lineup depth as they aim to maintain momentum through the summer months at Citizens Bank Park and beyond.
“I think next week is definitely in play.”
—Bryce Harper, Phillies Outfielder