Is Bryce Harper heating up?
The Phillies bats have started to come alive of late, but one notable exception has been Bryce Harper. The Phillies first baseman hasn’t been awful, but he hasn’t been anything close to his usual self either.
But it looks like things are starting to change. Harper has collected five hits in the last three games, but the most encouraging part is he’s starting to go the opposite way with those hits. That’s usually a sign that Harper is starting to lock in. His two-run double into the left-center field gap last night was a great sign that he may be close to erupting on a hot streak.
On to the links.
Phillies news:
- Taijuan Walker is focusing on being “ready to pitch whenever” in his new bullpen role. ($)
- Aroon Escobar is off to a blistering start to the season and is quickly climbing the Phillies prospect rankings. Take a look inside the mentality that has helped him do it.
- The Phillies still plan to give Johan Rojas some starts over Brandon Marsh despite the team in the middle of a nine-game stretch where they won’t see a left-handed starting pitcher.
- ESPN’s Jeff Passan believes that Kyle Schwarber getting a $100M deal this offseason is very possible.
MLB news:
- Nolan Arenado was scratched from the Cardinals lineup with back spasms before their game against the Pirates yesterday and is considered day-to-day.
- The Reds’ ace Hunter Greene left his start last night after three innings due to a groin injury.
- Yordan Alvarez has a strained muscle in his hand, but the Astros are hopeful it won’t keep the star slugger out for too long.
- Mike Soroka returned to the Nats’ rotation yesterday following a biceps injury and started off strong before faltering.
- Ten numbers that should start to cause some alarm for some teams. ($)