In November, Philadelphia Phillies outfielder and two-time National League MVP Bryce Harper had Tommy John surgery to repair a torn UCL. The usual recovery time would have had Harper’s return set for some point around the All-Star break. However, it appears that Harper is ahead in his rehab and is striding towards a return sooner rather than later.

Phillies manager Rob Thomson said Tuesday that Harper has been cleared by doctors to hit in games as he progresses through rehab, though he hasn’t been cleared to slide just yet.

Here’s a quote straight from the source.

“Once he gets on base, then we can put a brace on him,” Thomson said, via KYW’s Dave Uram. “But if he hits a double, we can’t hand a brace off to him as he’s rounding first base. That’s really where it gets dangerous.”

Sliding is a major part of baseball. It’s instinctual. And for Harper, who gives 120% of effort to every play, sliding could unfortunately lead to a setback. Because of that, the Phillies remain meticulous, and understand there is no reason to rush Harper back. The slugger is looking at a late-May return and it’s evident the team would rather him when re-injury isn’t at such a great risk.

Harper began taking batting practice following the first series against the Texas Rangers. Fittingly, Phillies fans advanced into excitement when footage of Harper doing so in the Bronx surfaced. His first on-field session that fans saw came as the Phillies prepared to take on the New York Yankees. He continued his on-field hitting practice when the team returned to Citizens Bank park to face the Cincinnati Reds.

Though, Harper knows he’s not physically there, yet.

“Still got a minute to go,” Harper told ESPN. “Just trying to be smart about it, understanding my good days are going to be good and some days I’ll just be sore and it’ll be a little tougher. But I feel good right now, just got to keep that going and keep doing the same stuff.”

In 2022, Harper slashed .286/.364/.514 while leading the charge to the Phillies first playoff appearance since 2011, and first World Series appearance since 2009. Once ready, Harper will slot back into the full-time designated hitter role.

Read the latest sports news via Fantom Sports Industries. Follow us on Twitter @Fantom_sports. Like us on Facebook Fantom Sports Industries. Subscribe to our YouTube channel Fantom Sports. Subscribe to our Newsletter! Shop Fantom Sports Industries Merch.

Invest in your favorite athletes like stocks with “Prediction Strike!” Use code FANTOM when you sign up.