PHILADELPHIA — In a promising sign for the Philadelphia Phillies, Bryce Harper took significant steps forward in his recovery from right wrist inflammation ahead of a weekend series against the New York Mets. Over three hours before the game, Harper was seen participating in various activities, including throwing and fielding ground balls, and taking swings from a tee — his first since being sidelined for 15 days.
“It felt better than I thought it would,” Harper commented on his swing activity, a hopeful indication of his progress in recovery. While Harper’s treatment plan hasn’t been fully disclosed by the Phillies, he has received assurances from multiple doctors that he will not require surgery, either now or in the offseason.
Despite the positive outlook, Harper admitted there are still uncertainties surrounding his situation and the possibility of recurring pain. “We haven’t really got too many answers about it,” he said, highlighting the complex nature of his injury and the ongoing challenge of managing it throughout the season.
Phillies manager Rob Thomson expressed optimism over Harper’s performance in the cage. “Very good,” he said, noting that the decision to let Harper hit from the tee indicates that there were no significant issues with pain. No specific timeline for Harper’s return has been established, but with a few more productive swings, he could potentially make his comeback as early as next week.
As Harper prepares for his return, he is focused on finding ways to manage any discomfort. “I understand what I can tolerate and what I can’t,” he explained, drawing on his experiences of playing through injuries throughout his career.
This situation has been a pivotal moment for Harper and the Phillies, showcasing his determination and resilience as he seeks to push through the injury. As he remains committed to returning to full form, fans and the team alike are hopeful that he can effectively manage this challenge and contribute to the Phillies’ success moving forward.