The Phillies reinstated All-Star first baseman Bryce Harper off the 10-day disabled list on Monday, ahead of their series opening against the San Diego Padres, the team said. Buddy Kennedy, an infielder, was designated for assignment to free up space on the 26-man roster. Harper, who has been out since June 7 due to right wrist inflammation, returns to a Phillies team looking to maintain its National League East lead. Harper remarked today that he thought his recuperation was at a “standstill,” but that he can still perform at his best tonight.
Bryce Harper Activated from Injured List, in Monday’s Lineup
Prior to his injury, Harper led the Phillies to a 34-19 record, batting.267/.368/.446 with nine home runs and 33 RBI in 57 games. Since his absence, Philadelphia has a paltry 13-14 record, with 4.9 runs per game in victories but only 2.6 in losses, according to MLB.com. The team’s 49-35 record keeps them 1½ games ahead of the New York Mets in the National League East competition. It is vital to mention that Harper endured the anguish of this injury for some time before deciding it was too much to bear.
Harper missed 27 games this season due to wrist soreness that had persisted from the previous year. He characterized the discomfort as excruciating, stating, “It got to the point where I couldn’t function on a baseball field.” Rest proved successful, as Harper advanced from tee swings to live pitches, with manager Rob Thomson remarking, “He was fantastic. His bat speed and timing seemed fine.”
Harper took 45 swings every day during his rehab, hoping to return before the All-Star break. In an interview with the media, he stated why he chose today to return off the injured list. “Yeah, I didn’t think I was gonna take any other steps forward of feeling better or anything like that…”We had been feeling the same for the past few days. From BP, to living things like that, we basically got the same outcome.” He noted that the squad will arrange days off over the following few weeks and may add more if required.
Harper’s return strengthens a top-heavy lineup. “Bryce Harper’s return is expected soon. “The signs are very good,” remarked MLB Network’s Jon Morosi. Harper’s value was stressed by Phillies president Dave Dombrowski, who stated, “His presence changes our lineup’s demeanor.” Harper’s presence in the Phillies lineup creates a fear factor that rival teams must account for.