Latest Update On Bryce Harper Revealed

The Philadelphia Phillies are on a 5-game win streak, and winners of 9 of their last 10. But that doesn't mean they wouldn't love to have their leader Bryce Harper back ASAP. 

The latest update on his status doesn't sound extremely encouraging, however. 

Bryce Harper is still hitting off a tee. Won’t face live pitching until there’s more flexibility in the broken thumb that’s kept him out since June 25

Phils backing off his throwing program b/c of some elbow stiffness. That wouldn’t affect his ability to DH once thumb’s better.

— Corey Seidman (@CSeidmanNBCS) August 9, 2022

Harper recently started hitting off a tee, but according to reports, he won't face live pitching just yet because he hasn't re-gained as much flexibility in his broken thumb as hoped. 

And "stiffness" in his previously-injured elbow has caused them to back off on his throwing program. 

But does manager Rob Thomson feel discouraged? Doesn't sound like it. When asked if he expects Harper to return this season to help the Phils' playoff drive, he responded “no doubt about it.”

The elbow injury forced Harper into DH duties strictly, then he broke his thumb June 25th. But somehow, the Phillies are actually 21-11 since then, leapfrogging into the 2nd Wild Card spot in the NL.

Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports