The Philadelphia Phillies have some much-needed good news regarding Bryce Harper’s wrist injury.
On Friday, Harper played catch with front office executive Howie Kendrick, fielded some ground balls and took about 15 swings off a tee in the batting cage, according to Matt Gelb of The Athletic.
It’s baby steps for Harper, but steps that need to be taken to get him back on the field.
“It felt better than I thought it would,” Harper told Gelb. “So I’m happy about that.”
While Harper has reportedly been reassured by multiple doctors that he won’t need surgery now or in the offseason, that doesn’t mean he will finish the year pain-free when he does return. It will all come down to load management from the Phillies.
“Harper is all but certain to play through some continued pain this season; the goal is to make it tolerable,” wrote Gelb. “Harper said the best treatment has been rest. He’s now comfortable with beginning more activities on the field.”
The Phillies went into Saturday one game ahead of the New York Mets for first place in the National League East.
Manager Rob Thomson was certainly happy about the progress.
“Very good,” Phillies manager Rob Thomson told The Athletic. “I mean, we wouldn’t do the tee (Friday) if there was any significant pain, for sure.”
Gelb reported there is no specific timetable for Harper’s return, but he does note the star will not go on a rehab assignment to the minor leagues. It’s big leagues or bust for Harper.
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