Phillies' Manager Not Concerned About Superstar's Back Tightness
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Bryce Harper missed the Philadelphia Phillies' past three spring training games with back tightness.
That doesn't seem to be encouraging with Opening Day approaching at the end of the month.
But the Phillies don't seem concerned.
Not at all.
"None. Zero," manager Rob Thomson told The Athletic’s Jayson Stark and Matt Gelb of issues with Harper's back.
Philadelphia needs Harper to make a deep postseason run and ultimately a World Series title.
That's not exactly shocking news.
The superstar has dealt with back tightness in the past. This appears to be similar.
"Yeah, it's similar, but it's really just stiffness, so I don't have any concern at all. He's going to be ready by Opening Day. He's going to be playing for sure by the end of the week. So ready to go."
Harper's back is worth tracking.
If he can't play first base and needs to be inserted as the designated hitter, Kyle Schwarber would have to play left field to stay in the lineup.
There's a bit of a domino effect if Harper isn't the DH.
He's played through injuries in the past and come back incredibly early as well. Harper wants to win. He'll do anything possible to help the Phillies win.
In his five seasons with Philadelphia, Harper's leadership has been evident.
Expect the Phillies to be extra cautious with Harper's back, especially in spring training.
It's the right move.
At the same time, he needs to be prepared for Opening Day.
If that means resting Harper as much as possible, they should do it now. No reason to push him through anything during spring training.
