Phillies slugger Bryce Harper unlikely to return to outfield this season

PHILADELPHIA — Phillies slugger Bryce Harper probably gained’t play the outfield once more this season.

The two-time NL MVP served strictly as Philadelphia’s designated hitter for many of final season after injuring his proper throwing elbow on an outfield throw in April 2022. After offseason Tommy John surgical procedure, Harper returned to his DH position on May 2 earlier than debuting at first base for the primary time in his profession on July 21.

Since then, supervisor Rob Thomson has been alternating Harper between first base and DH and that’s probably the plan for the rest of the season.

“I wouldn’t think so, not at this point, unless something changes,” Thomson mentioned on Saturday, when requested if Harper would return to the outfield this season.

Seven-time All-Star Harper has performed effectively at first base, making only one error in 9 video games over 80 innings. He made a spectacular catch, diving into the digital camera effectively, in his debut at Cleveland.

“He’s played extremely well,” Thomson mentioned. “Him handling situations, him fielding ground balls, his work around the base, I’m really happy and, frankly, surprised a little bit.”