Bryce Harper is back in the Philadelphia Phillies lineup after missing 24 days with a right wrist injury.
His return comes at a critical time for a team that’s trying to stay on track in the National League East. The Athletic’s Matt Gelb reported Monday that Harper had been dealing with inflammation in his wrist, the same issue that gave him problems last season. The team has activated him without sending him on a rehab assignment.
The Phillies held a 13-14 record while Harper was out. They managed to stay afloat in the standings but lacked offensive consistency.
Harper’s Presence Changes Phillies Outlook
Before the injury, Harper was putting together a solid season. He was not quite at MVP level, but his numbers were still well above average. He struggled briefly after returning from an earlier elbow bruise but had shown signs of turning it around before the wrist flared up again. He then took time off to let it settle, eventually facing live pitching from Phillies minor leaguers instead of taking a rehab assignment.
He says he feels ready. The Phillies clearly agree. They designated infielder Buddy Kennedy for assignment to make room on the roster. Now all eyes are on whether Harper can stay healthy and regain his top form.
Wrist injuries are notoriously difficult for hitters. Even when pain goes away, it often takes time for power and timing to return. The Phillies were careful not to rush Harper, understanding the risk involved. They had him go through a full ramp-up process, including batting practice against high-velocity machines and live pitching, before deciding he was ready.
With Harper back, the Phillies instantly become a more dangerous team. Opposing pitchers have to change how they approach the entire lineup. His presence stretches the batting order and brings leadership and playoff experience. Since joining the team in 2019, Harper has delivered big moments and played through pain in multiple postseasons.
Crucial Boost Ahead of All-Star Break
The Phillies were already starting to regain some momentum. Trea Turner recently returned from injury. The team is now close to full strength for the first time in weeks. They have won enough games to stay near the top of the division, but the upcoming stretch of the season will test their depth and consistency.
Adding Harper now gives them a better chance to take control of the division. He has been the face of the team since his arrival and continues to deliver in high-pressure moments. In last year’s postseason, he hit over 300 and posted an OPS above one thousand. That kind of production changes the course of a playoff race.
The Phillies understand how important Harper is to their chances. They were never going to bring him back until they were confident in his health. His ability to return without any reported setbacks is a good sign. Now the focus shifts to staying on the field and helping the team close out a strong first half of the season.
The All-Star break is approaching fast. The Phillies would like to have Harper fully up to speed before then. They know the second half will be a grind. They will need their best players healthy if they want to hold off the Braves and make another deep run in October.
He is not back to make noise in July. He is back to help the Phillies play meaningful games in October. If his wrist holds up, that goal becomes much more realistic.
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