Dave Dombrowski provides update on timetable for Bryce Harper return

Bryce Harper is taking batting practice on the field on Monday. (Brandon Sloter/Icon Sportswire)

Monday marks a significant point in Bryce Harper’s rehab from a broken left thumb. He took batting practice on the field at Citizens Bank Park this afternoon.

The next step for Harper, according to Rob Thomson, is to simulate high velocity in the cages before heading off to a minor league affiliate for a rehab assignment.

According to Dombrowski, the pace of Harper’s rehab is “up to him” as he’s been cleared to participate.

“When you say September 1, I think that’s a realistic goal,” Dombrowski said on High Heat with Christopher Russo.

Harper previously hinted at a “September-ish” return when he spoke with reporters last week.

Dombrowski also confirmed that Harper will return as a designated hitter. Thomson said on Sunday that Harper is still not throwing. He was cleared to begin a throwing program during the first week of August, but the team scaled back on it after Harper experienced some stiffness in his right elbow. He suffered a small UCL tear in April, but he’s able to hit without discomfort.

“We want to make sure we don’t rush it whatsoever,” Dombrowski said. “It’s made progress. It feels good, but there’s no sense in taking any chances. So we’re in a position where we’ll just take that gradually. Of course, even if we get his bat just back in the lineup, we’ll be thrilled with that.”