The Philadelphia Phillies just cannot catch a break. After bursting onto the scene looking like a brand new team under interim manager Rob Thomson, the team is now set to deal with the greatest trial they’ve faced this season, the loss of Bryce Harper. The 2021 MVP will miss extended time, potentially the rest of the season, with a fractured thumb after being hit by a pitch in last night’s matchup against the San Diego Padres.
In the fourth inning of last night’s game against the Padres, pitcher Blake Snell lost control of a 97 MPH fastball that crept up in a hurry high and inside. In a reactionary moment, Harper soon found his hands met by Snell’s pitch and immediately fell to his knees in agony. Just by watching the unfortunate play, one could tell that there would likely be no good news for Harper when a diagnosis was made.
While walking towards the dugout Harper, fueled by frustration and adrenalin, exchanged words with Snell, who had inadvertently cost the Phillies’ slugger most if not the rest of his season. Surprisingly, it was not the “charge the mound” attitude one would expect in this type of situation. Harper actually acknowledged it was an accident though that doesn’t change the outcome as he will miss significant time and the team’s season is now on the line.
The loss of two-time MVP Bryce Harper has the potential to derail the once-promising season of the Philadelphia Phillies entirely.
Philadelphia fans are used to “gut punches” when it comes to recent injuries. The Philadelphia 76ers have been an injury-ridden comedy of errors for years, while the Eagles’ starting quarterback, until Jalen Hurts took over the reins, was more known for the games he missed than the ones he played in. While the city may be used to star players getting hurt, that doesn’t make it any easier when it happens.
Hopefully, Harper recovers fast, not just so the team’s season might be saved, but because he undoubtedly desires nothing more than to join his teammates in the lineup.