Bryce Harper (Philadelphia Phillies) is getting closer to returning with superhuman resilience.
The US’MLB.com’ reported on the 1st (Korean time), “Harper is showing a surprisingly fast rehabilitation speed. He can return as early as this week.”
Harper underwent Tommy John surgery on his right elbow in November last year. According to ‘MLB.com’, Harper’s original scheduled return was around the time of the All-Star break. However, Philadelphia did not place Harper on the 60-day disabled list during Opening Day. That’s when speculation began that Harper could return as early as May.
Harper went to batting practice over the weekend and Philadelphia manager Rob Thompson hinted that he’ll likely return for a showdown against the Dodgers. He told the American media ‘ESPN’, “Even if he is in good shape, he will not play in the game on the 2nd. But his condition is fine and he wants to play.”
‘MLB.com’ said, “Considering that Harper did not participate in string camp and did not participate in minor league rehab, it would be surprising to return two months earlier than expected.”
Harper came to the free agent (FA) market ahead of the 2019 season and signed a 13-year, $330 million (approximately 442.5 billion won) contract with Philadelphia. He appeared in 99 games last season and had 106 hits, 18 homers, 65 RBIs and 63 runs for a 0.286 OPS of 0.878.안전놀이터
Philadelphia is 4th in the National League East with 15 wins and 14 losses this season. If Harper joins, it looks like it will be a big boost. It is 4 games behind the first place Atlanta Braves, 1 game away from the 2nd place New York Mets and 3rd place Miami Marlins.
Meanwhile, Philadelphia will play three consecutive matches against the Dodgers at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California, USA from the 2nd to the 4th. Attention is focusing on whether Harper will appear as a designated hitter.