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Phillies' Bryce Harper Shares Reason for Monday Return to Lineup

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Mike Ostrowski | Last updated Jun 30, 2025 5:30 PM ET

After what seemed like a painstakingly long month of June, Bryce Harper is set to make his return to the Philadelphia Phillies' lineup. Harper will bat third and play first base Monday night against the San Diego Padres.

Bryce had missed the previous 22 games with right wrist inflammation - shortly before that, he sat out for most of six outings following a fastball to the elbow.

When asked about why he is returning to action tonight, Harper had a candid answer:

"I didn't think I was going to take any other steps forward of feeling better or anything," Harper said before Monday's game. "I thought we were kinda at a standstill and feeling the same the last couple of days. From BP to live (pitching), stuff like that, gave us the same results each day, so I thought today was good."

Bryce Harper explains why today was the day to return.

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— On Pattison (@OnPattison) June 30, 2025

Harper had previously stated that the wrist issue was something he tried to play through early in the season. His response here seems to indicate that his discomfort is not completely gone, but it's now manageable enough again.

It's also a good sign that he is returning straight to first base, as opposed to extended time at DH like in 2022 and early 2023.

Harper slashed .258/.368/.446 with nine home runs, 13 doubles, and 34 RBI before missing most of last month. His bat will hopefully reignite a Philly offense that has sputtered in terms of power numbers lately - they scored only one run all series at the Houston Astros, then three combined between Saturday and Sunday at the Atlanta Braves.

First pitch against the Padres is scheduled for 6:35 PM, with Harper and the Phillies facing off against 28-year-old righty Matt Waldron.

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

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