Philadelphia Phillies fans have reason for cautious optimism as Bryce Harper nears a return from his right wrist injury that has sidelined him since early June. The two-time National League MVP has been making steady progress, with recent reports indicating that surgery is not required and that Harper is actively ramping up his on-field activities. However, an exact timeline for his return remains uncertain as the team carefully manages his workload to keep the injury manageable.
Harper was placed on the 10-day injured list retroactive to June 6 due to right wrist inflammation, the same issue that troubled him during much of last season. The injury forced him out after a brief return from an elbow contusion sustained when hit by a pitch in late May. Since then, Harper has been focused on rest and rehabilitation, with the Phillies cautious about rushing their star out of the lineup.
On June 20, Harper took a significant step forward by hitting off a tee and taking dry swings for the first time since landing on the injured list. Phillies manager Rob Thomson praised the progress, stating, “Very good. I mean, we wouldn’t have done the tee session on Friday if there was any significant pain, for sure.” Harper himself expressed optimism, telling reporters, “It felt better than I thought it would. So I’m happy about that.” He also noted that rest has been the most effective treatment so far and that he plans to continue increasing his activity gradually.
Despite the encouraging signs, Harper and the Phillies remain cautious. Multiple doctors have assured Harper that surgery is not necessary at this time or during the offseason, but that does not guarantee he will be pain-free upon his return. As Matt Gelb of The Athletic reported, “Harper is almost certain to play through some ongoing discomfort this season; the objective is to keep it manageable.” Harper echoed this sentiment, acknowledging that pain is part of the game and that he will need to adjust his routine accordingly. “I’ve played through pain in my career; I think everybody has at some point,” Harper said. “But those are matters we will need to address once I start playing again—how many swings I’m going to take, how often I’m going to throw.”
Manager Rob Thomson indicated there is no set timetable for Harper’s return and that he will not be sent on a minor league rehab assignment. “I think there’s gonna be a day at some point where he says ‘I’m ready to go,’” Thomson said. The Phillies are hopeful that day could come as soon as late June or early July, just ahead of the trade deadline, a critical juncture for the team as they seek to maintain their lead atop the National League East.
Harper’s absence has been felt keenly by the Phillies, who have relied heavily on his bat and leadership. Prior to the injury, Harper was batting .270 with a .360 on-base percentage and had already contributed several key home runs this season. His presence in the lineup not only boosts the team’s offensive firepower but also provides intangible benefits in the clubhouse.
As the Phillies continue their playoff push, the timing of Harper’s return could be pivotal. With the team currently holding a slim lead over the New York Mets, getting their star back healthy and effective would be a major boost. For now, fans and the organization alike remain patient, trusting the process to ensure Harper’s long-term health and impact.
In summary, Bryce Harper is making encouraging strides in his recovery from right wrist inflammation, with no surgery required and gradual ramping up of baseball activities underway. While no firm return date has been set, the Phillies anticipate he could rejoin the lineup in the coming weeks, ready to help lead Philadelphia down the stretch.
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