Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber have returned to the lineup for the Philadelphia Phillies after recovering from injuries sustained in a late June game against Miami. Harper strained his left hamstring while running the bases, while Schwarber strained his left groin making a throw from left field. The Phillies, who went 5-4 without their star sluggers, are now set to face the Los Angeles Dodgers in a series between National League division leaders.
Harper, a two-time NL MVP, is hitting .303 with 20 doubles, 20 homers, and 58 RBIs. He was named the National League player of the month for May and June and has been a standout performer in various offensive categories. Harper has confirmed his participation in the upcoming All-Star Game at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, where he will make his eighth appearance and seventh start.
Schwarber, who was leading the NL in walks before his injury, is batting .250 with 17 homers and 49 RBIs. He expressed his readiness to return to the field at full strength after ensuring his health was at 100%.
The Phillies made roster moves ahead of the series, designating outfielder David Dahl for assignment and optioning infielder Kody Clemens to Triple-A Lehigh Valley. The team is still without catcher J.T. Realmuto, who underwent knee surgery in June. Despite Realmuto's absence, Harper, Schwarber, and shortstop Trea Turner have been key contributors to the team's success.
Philadelphia, with the best record in baseball at 58-32, is anticipating a lively atmosphere at Citizens Bank Park for the series against the Dodgers. The matchup will feature a showdown between Harper and Shohei Ohtani, two of only three active players in MLB with multiple MVP awards.
The Phillies are looking to maintain their strong performance as they aim to secure a postseason berth and potentially make a deep playoff run. With key players returning to form and the team's resilience evident during their recent stretch without Harper and Schwarber, Philadelphia remains a formidable contender in the National League.
