The Philadelphia Phillies continue to dominate the MLB, with a 57-29 record that speaks volumes about the competition. Injuries have hit the Phillies hard, as they have for any other club over the course of 162 games, but they have repeatedly demonstrated that their organizational depth is sufficient to overcome adversity. Some of the players the Phillies have relied on in recent years to dig themselves out of a hole are on the injured list, with overlapping missed time in the starting order.
There have been some promising developments regarding the three big impact bats the Phillies have been missing. Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, and J.T. Realmuto are all making solid progress. “I don’t think they’re too far away,” Phillies manager Rob Thomson told MLB.com. Here are the most recent updates on the three Phillies stars who can’t wait to return.
Bryce Harper doing everything he can to return to the field
Harper strained his hamstring while sprinting down the first base line on the final play of the game on June 27. Since then, Harper has been observed sprinting on the field at Wrigley Field on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, adding to his development. Manager Rob Thomson said he has a “good chance” of returning before the All-Star break because the strain is minor. The earliest Harper can return is July 9, and the Phillies want to take their time with his injury to avoid a disaster and another trip to the DL.
Kyle Schwarber on pace for a minimum IL stint
In the same game that Harper was pulled, Schwarber felt tightness after planting his foot to make a throw in the eighth inning. It’s unfortunate because it was one of the few times that Schwarber has played the outfield.
Schwarber also hit on the field in back-to-back days at batting practice. According to Thomson, Schwarber’s injury is also mild and the slugger will likely be ready for the return date of July 9. The Phillies are missing their leadoff power hitter in the lineup and are excited to see him return to their All-Star lineup.
J.T. Realmuto starting to ramp up for a return?
Realmuto hit the IL after discomfort and pain led to proactive knee surgery on June 12. Per MLB.com’s Paul Casella, Dave Dombrowski explained the reason for the procedure, “I think it’s time that we get this thing done from what everybody’s telling me.”
