The Philadelphia Phillies, one of the top teams in baseball and a favorite for the World Series, are currently grappling with injuries that threaten to derail their season. Recently, both Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber were placed on the 10-day injured list. Prior to these setbacks, starting pitcher Spencer Turnbull also landed on the injured list. Despite these challenges, the Phillies have been fortunate that none of these injuries appear to be severe, with all three players expected to return soon.
Team manager Rob Thomson provided updates on Harper and Schwarber’s conditions, expressing optimism about their recovery timelines. According to Thomson, both players could be back within 10-14 days, potentially even before the All-Star break. He described both injuries as very mild, likening Harper’s injury to a previous one suffered by Brandon Marsh.
Harper and Schwarber have been instrumental in the Phillies’ offensive success this season. Schwarber has been a formidable presence at the plate, boasting a .250/.373/.447 slash line with 17 home runs and 49 RBIs. His power-hitting capabilities make him a constant threat to opposing pitchers. Harper, on the other hand, has been one of the best players in baseball this season and is considered a strong candidate for the National League MVP. He has posted a .303/.399/.582 slash line, contributing 20 home runs and 58 RBIs. These numbers underscore his importance to the team.
The Phillies’ injury woes extend beyond Harper and Schwarber. Top prospect Andrew Painter, who underwent Tommy John surgery in July 2023, is currently on the minor league 60-day injured list. Painter is throwing 25-pitch bullpens twice a week, focusing on fastballs and changeups. While there is a possibility he might pitch in simulated games before the end of the year, he is not expected to play for an affiliate in 2024.
Luis Ortiz is also set to undergo Tommy John surgery, following a rehab appearance that ended with forearm discomfort. Ortiz’s surgery is scheduled for July 11.
J.T. Realmuto, another key player, is recovering from right knee surgery. He was placed on the injured list with right knee pain and underwent a successful meniscectomy. Realmuto is making progress, taking dry swings and hitting off a tee, with the team hopeful for his return in about a month.
Spencer Turnbull, who is dealing with a right lat strain, is expected to be out for 6-8 weeks. He was removed from a game against the Detroit Tigers due to right shoulder soreness, and subsequent testing revealed a more significant injury. The team plans to be cautious with his recovery.
Taijuan Walker is on the 15-day injured list with right index finger inflammation and a blister. He is playing catch and throwing weighted balls to regain arm strength but is not expected to return before the All-Star break.
Michael Rucker, dealing with a right hand arterial vasospasm, is on the 60-day injured list. He has been throwing bullpen sessions and is set to make a rehab appearance for Triple-A Lehigh Valley.
Dylan Covey, who has a right shoulder strain, was transferred to the 60-day injured list. He has also been dealing with a hamstring pull and is undergoing conditioning work.
Despite these injuries, the Phillies remain hopeful and are taking steps to ensure their players’ swift and safe return. The team is optimistic that Harper and Schwarber will be back soon, bolstering their lineup and helping them maintain their status as World Series contenders.
Source: Philadelphia Inquirer, Phillies Nation, MLB.com
