Bryce Harper cleared to play just five months after surgery

Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Bryce Harper Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

Bryce Harper cleared to play just five months after Tommy John surgery

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Larry Brown | Last updated 5/1/23

The Philadelphia Phillies are 15-14 entering play on Monday, and they will be receiving a major reinforcement soon.

Bryce Harper has been cleared for his return from Tommy John surgery. He is expected to be in the Phillies’ lineup on Tuesday against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Only 159 days after Tommy John surgery, two-time MVP Bryce Harper has been cleared to play by the Philadelphia Phillies, sources tell ESPN. A remarkable recovery, shattering expectations he’d return in July. He's expected to be in the lineup starting at designated hitter Tuesday.

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) May 1, 2023

Harper’s recovery has been nothing short of astonishing. He was cleared just over five months after undergoing reconstructive surgery on his elbow. Typically, pitchers take around a year before returning from the surgery. Harper will be returning as a designated hitter, which is why he is able to be back so soon. Perhaps it will take longer before he can play in the field. Regardless, his recovery timeline is impressive.

The Phillies made the World Series last year but struggled at the start of this season. They had been under .500 for the year until a win over Houston on Friday night.

Getting Harper back will bolster what’s already one of the most powerful lineups in the National League. He’s also coming back before the Atlanta Braves have much separation atop the NL East.

Harper batted .286 with a .877 OPS during the 2022 season, and was electric in the postseason, slugging seven doubles and six home runs alongside a 1.160 OPS en route to a NLCS MVP Award.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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