Bryce Harper limped off the field after being hit by a pitch in the ankle during the Phillies spring training game against the Blue Jays Friday.
The mood around Phillies spring training took a major hit Friday as Bryce Harper was forced to leave the game after being hit by a pitch by Trent Thornton. He had to be helped off the field by a trainer after taking a 96 mph fastball to the ankle.
From the sound and where the ball hit Harper, it looks like it went right off the bone on his right ankle. He immediately went down in pain before heading back into the dugout after yelling a few words at Thornton.
Philly fans don't look... Bryce Harper leaves the game after being hit in his right ankle.
— FanSided (@FanSided) March 15, 2019
(via @NBCSPhilly) pic.twitter.com/WwUYrL3ypQ
Harper made his way back to the clubhouse from the dugout under his own power, which is a good sign. If he had to be helped all the way back to the clubhouse, things would be a lot grimmer.
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Harper was supposed to play in all three games this weekend, but that is unlikely as the team will be cautious with their star player. The severity of the injury, if there is one at all, will determine just how long Harper will be out.
If this is merely a bruise or something similar, Harper would likely be fine for Opening Day in two weeks. He could be back in action soon depending on how he feels.
However, if the worst occurs and something is broken, Harper would likely miss the first month of the season. Everyone who bought tickets after the prices jumped would have to miss the reason they bought the tickets in the first place.
The team already has had its fair share of injuries. Cesar Hernandez returned to action Friday after suffering a strained hip flexor. Odubel Herrera will DH Saturday as he works his way back from a hamstring injury.
Roman Quinn and Tommy Hunter may open the season on the injured list. Quinn has been dealing with a strained oblique while Hunter suffered a flexor strain in his forearm. There is enough depth at both of their positions that they can take their time working back.