Phillies’ Bryce Harper exits game after HBP

The month of June began with news that Phillies’ second baseman Jean Segura was going onto the Injured List with a broken finger. Now, as we enter the final week of June, it appears that the already wounded Bryce Harper will likely join Segura after getting hit in the left thumb on Saturday night.

How It Went Down

With one out in the top of the fourth inning, Harper stepped up to the plate. After flying out to right field in the first inning, Harper worked to a 2-2 count as he looked to give the Phillies their second base runner of the day. Padres’ pitcher Blake Snell then hurled a 97.2 MPH fastball high and in. As the fastball hurdled towards Harper’s head, the slugger managed to get his head out of the way, leaving his hand to take the brunt of the laces.

In the immediate aftermath, Snell clearly demonstrated frustration and regret regarding the pitch. His frustration, however, paled in comparison to Harper. Writhing in pain, Harper was escorted off the field by the Phillies’ athletic trainer, ending his day. Despite knowing that the pitch was not intentional, Harper let Snell have some of his frustration on his way out before accepting Snell’s apology in what was a very respectful encounter between the two.

The Latest on the Phillies’ MVP

With the toll of the bell at midnight, the Phillies announced that Harper did indeed fracture his thumb.

As Tom McCarthy detailed on the NBC Sports Philadelphia broadcast, the Phillies and Harper will further evaluate the injury over the next several days. Given that Segura’s finger fracture has him out 10-12 weeks along with the fact that a thumb fracture could take more time to heal, it does not look good for the reigning Most Valuable Player.

What’s Next for Bryce Harper?

With a looming shadow over the Philadelphia skyline, the Phillies will await further information. Harper is almost certainly going onto the Injured List, the main question on everyone’s mind is simply how long the trip will be.

In the meantime, the Phillies will almost certainly recall Mickey Moniak to fill Harper’s spot on the roster. Harper has carried the Phillies on his back through thick and thin over the past few seasons. Now, it is time for his teammates to return the favor.

AP Photo/Derrick Tuskan