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Phillies GM Sends Clear Bryce Harper Message After Injury News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Zach Kaplan | Last updated Jun 25, 2025 1:55 PM ET

Bryce Harper's lingering and surprisingly long rehab from a wrist injury has been frustrating for Phillies fans, especially with their rival Mets in the midst of a tailspin.

With the Mets having lost nine of their last 10 games, the Phillies have gotten out to a 1.5 game lead in the National League East, but this June swoon won't last long.

Harper's extended absence would help the Phillies pull away, potentially for good, in the East.

Phillies general manager Dave Dombrowski made an interesting admission that could be interpreted as news that Harper is nearing a return.

Dombrowski said that at the deadline, the Phillies will be focused on bullpen help.

“Our starting pitching’s so good,” Dombrowski told El Extrabase's Daniel Alvarez Montes. “When {Bryce} Harper comes back, our lineup is in pretty good shape at that time. It’s probably bullpen is our biggest focus.”

The quote from the top executive comes in the wake of heightened rumors that slugging Orioles first baseman Ryan O'Hearn could be a target come late July.

The fact that Dombrowski doesn't appear stressed about Harper's return, enough to express full confidence in the lineup, should signify Harper's increasing game readiness.

Harper reportedly took 50 swings, fielded grounders and participated in a throwing program before Tuesday's game against the Houston Astros.

The news that the Phillies are prioritizing bullpen help isn't much of a surprise, as a bidding war was predicted between the Mets and Phillies over relievers like the Rockies' Seth Halvorsen and Orioles closer Felix Bautista.

Harper's return will be huge for a Phillies lineup that feels somewhat incomplete without him.

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

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