As the All-Star break approaches, the Philadelphia Phillies could see Bryce Harper return as early as Monday.
Harper, who’s been out since early June with a wrist injury, has cleared key steps in his rehab and appears to be nearing activation. The Athletic’s Matt Gelb reported Thursday that Phillies manager Rob Thomson said Harper took 75 swings off a high-velocity pitching machine, a sign the two-time MVP is testing his wrist aggressively.
He’s expected to take on-field batting practice Friday at Truist Park in Atlanta and could face live pitching shortly after — a key final hurdle before being cleared.
Harper Won’t Be Shut Down Before All-Star Break
Philadelphia has held up without Harper, but the lineup has missed his presence.
Kyle Schwarber and Alec Bohm have carried stretches, but Harper changes how pitchers attack the entire lineup. His return would instantly lengthen the order and put pressure on opposing staffs.
The Phillies are taking no chances with his recovery. Wrist injuries are notoriously tricky for hitters, often affecting bat speed and power even after players are cleared. Philadelphia’s medical staff and front office have prioritized a full recovery over rushing him back. That caution now appears close to paying off, and a return for Monday is targeted.
Phillies Have Been Surviving
The Phillies have caught fire, winning 10 of their last 13 to take control of the NL East — and they’ve done it without Harper.
That said, getting him back would be a massive boost. Even with Kyle Schwarber, Alec Bohm, and Bryson Stott stepping up, Harper changes how teams pitch the Phillies — stretching the lineup and bringing postseason-caliber leadership.
The team has been cautious with his rehab, knowing wrist injuries can affect power. But with no setbacks and steady progress, the timing couldn’t be better as the second half looms. The lineup needs a serious boost after being shutout 2-0 to the Houston Astros on Wednesday.
Philadelphia already leads the division without its best bat. Add a healthy Harper to the mix, and the Phillies become even more dangerous. If he returns to form, this team won’t just be chasing a playoff spot.
If Harper returns Monday, he’ll have the second half to ramp back up while the Phillies try to pull away in a tight NL East race. The Braves, Mets, and Marlins are all still in the mix, and with the schedule about to tighten, every win will matter. Harper’s impact — both in the box and in the clubhouse — could be the edge Philadelphia needs to separate itself.
For now, all eyes are on the next steps. Batting practice Friday, then potentially live pitching. If everything checks out, Harper’s activation could follow quickly.
The Phillies are on the verge of getting their best player back, right when they need him most. With the All-Star break arriving and the stretch run looming, Harper’s comeback is encouraging.
He’s not officially back yet — but he’s close. And if all goes well, the Phillies will be getting a major piece of their October plans in place just as the second half begins.
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