Hitting coach Kevin Long estimated that Harper will have about 50 at-bats against live pitching in those controlled settings by the time he’s activated. Harper continued his modified spring training over the weekend at Minute Maid Park and faced two minor-league pitchers in separate live batting practice sessions. The Phillies do not want to rush that aspect of this recovery.īut they were willing to be aggressive with the hitting component - so long as Harper felt comfortable. Harper will be the DH for a period of months he will continue to learn first base with pregame drills, but clearance to throw without restrictions will take time. The Phillies have decided that even if Harper is cleared Monday, he will not be activated Monday night for the series opener against the Dodgers. Neal ElAttrache, the orthopedist who performed Harper’s Tommy John surgery on Nov. The current plan all hinges on his appointment with Dr. Harper is returning only as a hitter, and that’s allowing him to author one of the quickest comebacks from Tommy John surgery ever recorded. “He’s pretty geeked up about getting out there and playing,” Phillies manager Rob Thomson said. But, as Harper’s body responded well to increased activity, the Phillies proceeded with an accelerated program. It is a stunning development for the Phillies, who before the season started were anticipating months without Harper.
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