The Philadelphia Phillies fan base went into frenzy mode when they learned that outfielder Bryce Harper finished his rehab assignment in the minors and his return to the active roster was imminent.
Several reports suggested that it could come as soon as Thursday.
However, that won’t be the case.
Instead, the reigning 2021 NL MVP will be a part of the Phillies’ lineup on Friday.
“Phillies manager Rob Thomson announced that Bryce Harper will return from the IL tomorrow,” Fox Sports tweeted.
Phillies manager Rob Thomson announced that Bryce Harper will return from the IL tomorrow pic.twitter.com/iEvKDvj3RI
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) August 25, 2022
Harper had suffered a fractured thumb a few weeks ago after being hit on the hand by a Blake Snell pitch.
That happened on June 25, exactly two months ago.
Phillies Fans Were Very Patient
Phillies fans knew they would have to be patient, and that it would be a challenge for the team to keep winning enough games to stay afloat without their biggest star.
Philadelphia managed to do that and more.
Before Thursday’s games, the Phillies are 69-55, third in the NL East but in possession of one of the Wild Card spots.
Now that the Phillies’ supporting cast gifted Harper a competitive team for two months, plus the chance to secure a return to the postseason, it will be his turn to make sure they qualify and make things interesting once in.
Harper was having one of his finest seasons, slashing .318/.385/.599 with a .984 OPS.
He has, to this point, 21 doubles and 15 home runs, not to mention nine stolen bases.
He missed too much time with his injury to remain in consideration for the MVP, but making the playoffs will probably be more meaningful to him.
The Phillies are a much stronger team with Harper.
NEXT: MLB Insider Reveals When Bryce Harper Will Return