The Philadelphia Phillies announced on Monday that Bryce Harper has been reinstated from the 10-day injured list and will rejoin the team’s active roster. To make room for Harper, the Phillies designated utility player Buddy Kennedy for assignment.
Harper’s Injury and Recent Performance Overview
Harper had been sidelined for nearly four weeks due to inflammation in his wrist, an issue that appears to have impacted his performance before he was placed on the injured list. Despite a strong showing in late May with a .276/.382/.470 slash line, Harper struggled in the eight games leading up to his injury, producing a .143/.273/.286 line. During this period, he was also hit on the elbow by a pitch from Spencer Strider, likely contributing to his need for recovery time.
Prior to this season, Harper has consistently produced at a high level, but his current stat line of .258/.368/.446 reflects a decline compared to his usual standards, although it still translates to being 26 percent better than average in weighted runs created (wRC+). Phillies manager Rob Thomson noted that Harper’s wrist had been troublesome for some time before he was placed on the injured list, emphasizing the challenge Harper has faced.
Buddy Kennedy’s Roster Status and Performance
Buddy Kennedy, 26, has been designated for assignment by the Phillies for the second time this season. After failing to make the opening-day roster, he experienced a brief free agency period before rejoining the team on a minor league contract. Eleven days ago, he was called back up to the majors but managed only four appearances, going hitless in eight plate appearances while drawing one walk.
Kennedy’s major league track record includes stints with the Diamondbacks, Tigers, and Phillies, totaling 157 plate appearances, where he has posted a .193/.287/.296 batting line. However, he has shown better numbers in Triple-A, hitting .281/.391/.437 over nearly 1,600 plate appearances. Defensively, Kennedy is versatile, having mostly played second and third base, along with over 400 innings at first base and 93 innings in left field throughout his professional career.
Next Steps for Buddy Kennedy Following DFA
After being designated for assignment, Kennedy’s future with the Phillies will be decided within the next five days. Philadelphia can either trade or release him during that window. If he goes on waivers, the process will take 48 hours, after which Kennedy will know his status. Should he clear waivers, he has the option to refuse an assignment to the minors and instead elect free agency to explore opportunities elsewhere.
With Harper’s return to the lineup, the Phillies reinforce their core offensive strength, while the decision around Kennedy highlights the ongoing roster adjustments the team is making to contend effectively this season.