The Philadelphia Phillies are entering the 2023 season with a mission to defend their place as the reigning National League champions and this time finish the job in the World Series.
However, despite a busy offseason, they’ll be beginning the season without Bryce Harper, who is rehabbing from Tommy John surgery.
They’ll still have Trea Turner, Nick Castellanos, Kyle Schwarber, and JT Realmuto in their lineup, but it’s going to be a while before Harper suits up for the Phils.
This morning, MLB.com writer Anthony Castrovince provided an update on the veteran slugger and former NL MVP, reporting that the Phillies are pleased with his progress so far.
Bryce Harper continues to recover well from Tommy John surgery, according to Phillies President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski.#MLBNHotStove | @castrovince | @SieraSantos pic.twitter.com/J4aZfRfQWk
—MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) February 24, 2023
Castrovince noted that Dave Dombrowski was telling reporters that Harper may in fact be ahead of schedule.
The slugger tore his UCL last season and was forced to serve as the designated hitter for the rest of the season.
While it didn’t affect his offense too much, it prevented him from playing in the outfield.
But Harper appears to be progressing well and is reportedly already taking swings.
The Phillies hope that soon, he’ll be able to hit off a tee and later transition to live pitching.
The team was hoping to have Harper back around the All-Star break.
Castrovince notes that as of now, the team will rotate certain players in and out of the designated hitter spot.
The good news is that Harper appears to be headed in the right direction and may soon be ready to ramp up his baseball activities.
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