Bryce Harper returns to Phillies lineup

The Phillies announced Saturday that outfielder Bryce Harper (left forearm contusion) has been activated from the injured list. He’ll bat third and start in right field in today’s afternoon matchup against the Washington Nationals. For the first time since May 15, the Phillies will have all three of Harper, J.T. Realmuto and Rhys Hoskins in the starting lineup.

In a corresponding move, right-handed pitcher Héctor Neris has been placed on the paternity list. The Phillies closer can miss no more than three games while on the list.

Harper, 28, has played in just 38 out of the Phillies’ 56 games. He missed time after being hit in the face with a high 90s sinker in a game against the St. Louis Cardinals on April 28. The Phillies outfielder miraculously returned on May 2 but did not play again until May 7. As it turns out, Harper had to deal with the after-effects of the ball deflecting off his left wrist after it hit his nose and cheek. It was a tough month for Harper, who dealt with struggles at the plate as well as a shoulder issue.

The Phillies are going to need Harper to step up and provide a boost for a struggling offense. Their 17 run outburst on Wednesday night marked the only time the Phillies scored more than three runs in a game since Harper was officially placed on the injured list on May 25. He’ll be looking to break an 0-for-16 in his first game back.

For the first time since August 2019, the Phillies will have Jean Segura, Harper, Hoskins and Realmuto in the two, three, four and five spots. They face Joe Ross, who is looking to bounce back after posting an ERA of 6.00 in May.

Phillies lineup

1. Odúbel Herrera, center field
2. Jean Segura, second base
3. Bryce Harper, right field
4. Rhys Hoskins, first base
5. J.T. Realmuto, catcher
6. Andrew McCutchen, left field
7. Alec Bohm, third base
8. Nick Maton, shortstop
9. Spencer Howard, pitcher

Nationals lineup TBA

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