The Philadelphia Phillies have been without Bryce Harper since June 6. However, the superstar is making progress towards his return to playing.
Harper was on the injured list with a wrist injury and has missed 21 straight games. The Phillies have a lead over the New York Mets in the National League East, entering play on Monday, but getting Harper back could be key in them pulling away from the Mets. Harper faced live pitching during the team's series in Atlanta.
"He was great," Philadelphia manager Rob Thomson said per ESPN.com. "Looked like he got his bat speed and his timing looked fine."
Harper is slashing .258/.368/.446 with nine home runs through 57 games. By his standards, he is having a down year. However, the two-time MVP is a game-changer when he's on the field.
He changes the complexion of the lineup and is a true threat at the plate. The Phillies already have great hitters like Trea Turner, Kyle Schwarber and Nick Castellanos. Adding Harper back to the mix may put the Phillies in a position to win the NL East.
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The Phillies have World Series aspirations. Harper will be a key factor in determining how far their team will go. The Phillies went to the World Series in 2022, in large part thanks to Harper. He slashed .349/.414/.746 that postseason and hit six home runs. He is an eight-time All-Star and four-time Silver Slugger, and could return as soon as next week.
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