CINCINNATI -- By now, you've seen Bryce Harper's video post. He took 60 swings in a batting practice session at Citizens Bank Park on Monday afternoon.
"It went well," manager Rob Thomson said. "I just texted him. He said he feels great."
Harper has been out since June 25 when an up-and-in fastball from San Diego's Blake Snell broke his left thumb. Harper is healthy now, building strength and getting his swing and timing back. Monday's outdoor BP session was his first since the injury. He had been taking swings in the indoor batting cage.
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SIGN UP HERE Harper's workout Monday included some work in the cage against a high-velocity pitching machine.
Thomson said Harper would probably not hit outdoors on Tuesday. He'll get back to that on Wednesday. Once Harper feels ready to take competitive swings, he will head out on a minor-league rehab assignment. Thomson was asked if that could happen as soon as this weekend. He thought about the question for a moment and concluded that this weekend might be a little too early. It does sound like Harper could be ready to play in the minors sometime next week if he continues to progress.
As for a return to the Phillies' starting designated hitter role, September 1, give or take, continues to be a reasonable target.
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Kyle Schwarber was out of the starting lineup for a fourth straight game Monday night as he recovers from a right calf strain. He did take batting practice and was available for pinch-hitting duty. Thomson said it was possible that Schwarber could serve as the DH in one of the games in Cincinnati. The Phils and Reds play again on Tuesday night before wrapping up the series Wednesday afternoon.
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