Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper (3) gets hit with a pitch against the Toronto Blue Jays during the first inning at Rogers Centre. Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images

Phillies' Bryce Harper leaves game vs. Blue Jays after being hit on elbow

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Sep 4, 2024 5:38 PM ET

Bryce Harper was already banged up, and the situation got worse for him Wednesday when he took a fastball directly to his elbow.

Harper was hit by a Bowden Francis pitch in the top of the first Wednesday against the Toronto Blue Jays. While the first baseman initially stayed in the game, he was eventually replaced by Edmundo Sosa in the third inning.

Edmundo Sosa has replaced Bryce Harper in the 3rd inning.

Harper was hit by a pitch on his left elbow in the 1st inning. pic.twitter.com/Qfj8INgyu3

— Phillies Tailgate (@PhilsTailgate) September 4, 2024

The Phillies said Harper had a left elbow contusion and would be further evaluated.

Per the Phillies: Bryce Harper was removed from today's game with a left elbow contusion. He'll be evaluated further.

— Alex Coffey (@byalexcoffey) September 4, 2024

Harper had already admitted recently that his right elbow has been bothering him lately. The good news is this won’t make that situation worse, but at the obvious cost of both elbows now being a problem for the former MVP.

Harper has hit six home runs since the start of July, a modest tally for him, but his other numbers are fine. Perhaps a few days off will be beneficial to him for the playoffs, much as he would rather be playing.

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

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