Bryce Harper Makes Comeback for Phillies After Elbow Injury

Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper stepped back onto the field Tuesday, ready to face the Toronto Blue Jays after a five-game hiatus caused by a bruised right elbow.

In his return, Harper will take on first base duties and bat third, marking his first appearance since being struck by a 95 mph fastball from Atlanta Braves pitcher Spencer Strider last week.

The Phillies struggled in Harper's absence, posting a disappointing 1-4 record and slipping from their position atop the NL East standings.

Harper's elbow, previously subjected to Tommy John surgery following the 2022 World Series, remains a delicate area. To mitigate further risk, he intends to wear a protective guard on his right elbow during games.

This season, Harper has maintained a batting average of .267, with eight home runs and 33 RBIs across 54 games. In his absence, Alec Bohm transitioned from third base to first base, while Edmundo Sosa filled in at third.

With Harper back in the lineup, Bohm returned to his original position at third base against the Blue Jays, signaling a shift in the team's dynamics as they aim to regain their footing in the division.