The Philadelphia Phillies will get a boost to the lineup to start a three-game series against the San Diego Padres at Citizens Bank Park. After missing 22 games with right wrist inflammation, first baseman Bryce Harper has been reinstated from the IL ahead of Monday’s series opener.
In a corresponding move, the Phillies designated Buddy Kennedy for assignment to make room for Harper. Kennedy was 0-for-7 in four games since joining the big league club on June 19.
Bryce Harper batting third in return to Phillies’ lineup
Harper has had a down year at the plate but had started to heat up before landing on the IL. Despite owning a .258 batting average this season, Harper hit .308 in 91 at-bats in May.
The 32-year-old originally missed a week of action after getting hit in the elbow by Atlanta Braves starter Spencer Strider on May 27. He returned on June 3 for a three-game series against the Toronto Blue Jays but was placed on the IL on June 7, retroactive to June 6, with his wrist injury.
The Phillies were 12-10 with Harper out of the lineup and have been going through an offensive lull as of late. Notably, the Phillies’ offense scored just one run in a three-game series sweep at the hands of the Houston Astros, and averaged 4.3 runs per game in his absence.
Harper will look to provide the Phillies’ offense with a much-needed spark through the final four series before the All-Star break and into the second half. The left-handed hitter is right back in the middle of the action, batting third in Monday night’s lineup against a good Padres team.
Otto Kemp filled in nicely after being called up for his first taste of major league action when Harper was placed on the IL. The 25-year-old has four doubles, 10 RBI and hit his first career home run in the Phillies’ 13-0 win over the Braves on June 27.
OTTO KEMP'S FIRST MAJOR LEAGUE HOME RUN! pic.twitter.com/xqbqnbbTKT
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) June 28, 2025
Kemp has shown his versatility at the big league level, making appearances at first base, third base and left field. He’ll remain with the Phillies for now, but Harper will take over as the team’s full-time first baseman.
The Phillies stayed afloat without their superstar, and now it’s time to get back on track as one of the top offenses in baseball. The Phillies are a much better team with Harper in the lineup.