Bryce Harper is DHing for a second-consecutive game on Monday. Manager Joe Girardi told reporters in Denver that Harper’s right elbow, his throwing elbow, is sore. It does not affect his swing, so he is clear to hit. He’ll DH for the remainder of the series.
During an April 11 win against the Mets, the broadcast showed Harper grabbing at his elbow after a throw to home. Girardi told reporters after the game that his elbow is OK. It appears that the injury is not serious, but it’s worth monitoring. So far this season, Harper is 8-for-37 with two home runs and nine RBIs.
In other lineup news, Alec Bohm makes his first start at third base since his three-error game last Monday. J.T. Realmuto, who has seemingly usurped Kyle Schwarber as the team’s preferred leadoff hitter, is batting first. Jim Salisbury of NBC Sports Philadelphia recently laid out the rest schedule for Realmuto for the remainder of the roadtrip. Realmuto will catch on Monday and Tuesday and receive a scheduled day off on Wednesday. Zach Eflin is scheduled to pitch the series finale on Wednesday.
Here is how the Phillies and Rockies line up for Monday’s series opener at Coors Field. Kris Bryant is not in the Colorado lineup.
Phillies
Starting Pitcher: Aaron Nola
Rockies
Starting Pitcher: Chad Kuhl