Bryce Harper Out for Game 1 of Doubleheader Against Braves

Bryce Harper will not be in the Philadelphia Phillies' lineup for the first game of their doubleheader against the Atlanta Braves on Thursday. This decision comes after Harper was struck by a fastball clocked at 95.6 mph, impacting his right elbow just two days prior.

During the Phillies' 2-0 victory over the Braves on Tuesday, Harper exited in the first inning following the incident with pitcher Spencer Strider. The impact was particularly concerning given Harper's history of elbow surgery.

Following the game, the Phillies confirmed that Harper sustained a contusion to his elbow, but X-rays returned negative results, providing some relief to the team and fans alike.

“When your best hitter gets hit like that, there's always a concern,” said Phillies manager Rob Thomson after the game. “You're always concerned, but we'll just have to see tomorrow.”

With Wednesday's matchup against the Braves postponed, no further updates on Harper's condition were provided by the team.

As for his availability for the second game of the doubleheader, uncertainty looms. The team has yet to decide whether to rest him entirely or allow him to play later in the day.

The Phillies do not believe Strider intended to hit Harper, a sentiment echoed by the Braves' pitcher himself. “Certainly not trying to hit him,” Strider remarked. “In that moment, I just assumed he had a guard on and was just upset that I hit him. Then I saw him in pain. That was tough. I'm definitely relieved he's OK.” He added, “He's one of the best players this century. He needs to be on the field. It's best for the game.”

With Harper sidelined for Game 1, Alec Bohm will take over at first base while Edmundo Sosa steps in at third base. Rafael Marchán is set to catch during this game, with Cristopher Sanchez starting on the mound for Game 1 and Zack Wheeler slated for Game 2.

The Phillies will don their powder blue uniforms for the first game of the doubleheader.