TORONTO – Philadelphia Phillies slugger Bryce Harper returned to the starting lineup on Tuesday against the Toronto Blue Jays, after missing the last five games due to a right elbow contusion. Harper played first base and batted third in his first game since being hit by a 95 mph fastball from Atlanta Braves pitcher Spencer Strider during the first inning of a game last week.
The Phillies went 1-4 without Harper and lost the first place in the National League East.
Harper’s elbow, which was operated on with Tommy John surgery after the 2022 World Series, remains a sensitive area. In light of the injury, Harper plans to use a protector on his right elbow upon his return. In 54 games this season, Harper is batting .267 with eight home runs and 33 RBIs. Alec Bohm had moved from third base to first base to replace Harper, while Edmundo Sosa had taken over at third base. Bohm returned to third base against the Blue Jays.
