PHILADELPHIA (AP) \u2014 Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper remains day-to-day as he continues to recover from a bruised right elbow, leaving his return to the lineup uncertain.<\/p>\n
Harper was hit by a 95 mph fastball from Atlanta Braves pitcher Spencer Strider during the first inning on Tuesday. Although X-rays indicated no fracture, Harper described the injury as \u201cstill super sore\u201d and has yet to resume swinging a bat.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m not sure when I\u2019m going to play again,\u201d Harper said Friday before the Phillies opened a weekend series against Milwaukee. \u201cIt hit me in a pretty bad spot. I think the swelling has gone down, which is good, but like I said, it\u2019s a really tough spot where he got me. I just want to be smart about it, too.\u201d<\/p>\n
Harper\u2019s elbow, which underwent Tommy John surgery in 2022, remains a sensitive area. In light of the injury, Harper plans to wear a protective guard on his right elbow upon his return.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s really hard to find braces that feel good, that don\u2019t feel as bulky,\u201d Harper said. \u201cI haven\u2019t really worn them my whole career. I have here and there, just to feel it. I did in spring training this year because of this reason. I didn\u2019t like the way it felt.\u201d<\/p>\n
Despite the setback, the two-time National League MVP emphasized that he does not believe Strider\u2019s pitch was intentional.<\/p>\n
\u201cObviously there was no intent on it,\u201d Harper said. \u201cHe\u2019s a competitive guy, a really good pitcher.\u201d<\/p>\n
Phillies manager Rob Thomson echoed Harper\u2019s sentiments, stating that he doesn\u2019t anticipate a stint on the injured list for the star player.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019ll have to see (when he can return),\u201d Thomson said. \u201cWe have to get the swelling out and him be pain free, or close to it.\u201d<\/p>\n
Harper took ground balls and fielded throws at first base before Friday\u2019s game, but he didn\u2019t throw any balls or swing a bat. <\/p>\n
Harper is hitting .267 with eight homers and 33 RBIs in 54 games this season. Alec Bohm has shifted from third base to first base to replace Harper. Edmundo Sosa has taken over at third. <\/p>\n
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