Bryce Harper injury update: Shocking return date revealed for Phillies star

Bryce Harper could be back in the lineup for the Phillies within days, completing his incredible return from Tommy John surgery in record time.

Going into the 2023 season, Phillies fans might have hopefully expected to see Bryce Harper back in the dugout sometime near the All-Star break in July. Who could have imagined he’d be good to go at the very start of May?

It certainly looks like his return is that imminent.

Harper is scheduled to see a doctor on Monday morning in hopes of being cleared to play, according to Matt Gelb of The Athletic. If cleared, Philadelphia would have him in the lineup as a designated hitter on Tuesday when they begin their series with the Dodgers in Los Angeles.

Bryce Harper injury update: Phillies star aims for Tuesday return

It’s been a hell of a week for Philadelphia. The Eagles were one of the clearest winners of the NFL Draft. Now the Phillies have gotten incredible news with Harper’s return literally right around the corner.

And it doesn’t sound like this is a “maybe he’ll be cleared” kind of situation.

Phillies manager Rob Thomson told Corey Seidman of NBC Sports that he’d be disappointed if Harper wasn’t cleared.

Harper had Tommy John surgery on on Nov. 23 after playing much of the 2022 season with a torn UCL in his right elbow. He was limited to a DH role but he still kept his bat on point. He even got hot when the Phillies needed him in the playoffs, leading the team to the World Series where they lost 4-2 to the Astros.

Phillies fans will have to wait to see Harper return to his role in the outfield. Right now the plan is to have him at DH with the possibility of playing first base down the line, since that would require less from his arm.

Wherever he plays, it’s wild he’ll be back at it so quickly.