A Blake Snell pitch hit Philadelphia Phillies slugger Bryce Harper in the hand over the weekend.
As it turns out, it could be the exact moment in which the Phils’ season was derailed.
It’s still too early to tell if the Phillies will be able to overcome an extended absence from their biggest star, but their resolve, talent, and determination will definitely be tested following news about Harper’s recovery timeline.
“Bryce Harper will have thumb surgery, and is expected to be out at a minimum of six weeks, while hoping the #Phillies still are in contention for at least a wild-card spot upon his return,” USA Today’s Bob Nightengale tweeted.
Bryce Harper will have thumb surgery, and is expected to be out at a minimum of six weeks, while hoping the #Phillies still are in contention for at least a wild-card spot upon his return. https://t.co/932EkxAdfs
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) June 28, 2022
If Harper recovers nicely and according to expectations, he should be back around mid-August.
Now, the Phillies have shown they rely heavily on Harper, and they need him to succeed.
The Phillies Badly Need Harper To Make A Run At The Playoffs
He won the National League MVP award last year, and the Phils still couldn’t make the playoffs.
It’s not hard to imagine the Phillies struggling a lot for the next six weeks, but they do have some stars to rely on during Harper’s absence.
They signed Kyle Schwarber, who has been showing off his power, and Nick Castellanos, who are both capable of leading a lineup with their power hitting.
They also have Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola to lead the rotation, so it’s not like they are lacking in talent.
But losing your best player for most of the summer has to hurt.
Harper was hitting .318/.385/.599 with 15 home runs and nine stolen bases in 275 plate appearances before the injury, en route to another MVP award candidacy.
Can the Phillies move on without him?
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