First baseman Bryce Harper returned briefly to the Philadelphia Phillies’ lineup but sat out Wednesday night against Los Angeles due to a bruised left hand.
Harper, who had been sidelined for nine games with a strained left hamstring, sustained the injury during Tuesday’s 10-1 victory over the Dodgers. Phillies manager Rob Thomson noted that Harper bruised his hand while fielding a groundball in the first inning.
During the game, Harper appeared to be in discomfort after a second-inning play involving a ground ball hit by Miguel Rojas.
In Harper’s absence, All-Star third baseman Alec Bohm shifted to first base, and Edmundo Sosa started at third base for Philadelphia in their 4-3 win over the Dodgers.
“His condition is improving. The swelling has gone down,” Thomson commented after the game. “We will assess his status again tomorrow.”
Harper has been a key contributor for the Phillies this season, batting .299 with 20 home runs and 58 RBIs. The team had the best record in baseball as of Wednesday.
A two-time NL MVP, Harper has been recognized with consecutive National League Player of the Month honors in May and June. He ranks near the top of several NL statistical categories, including batting average, home runs, RBIs, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, and OPS.
Harper confirmed his intention to participate in the All-Star Game on July 16 at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, during Tuesday’s remarks.
Thomson also provided an update on All-Star right-hander Zack Wheeler, who underwent an MRI for back tightness but fortunately showed no structural damage. Despite some lingering soreness, Wheeler managed to pitch five innings and secure the win against the Dodgers on Tuesday, throwing 76 pitches under challenging weather conditions in Philadelphia.
