NEW YORK — Bryce Harper (fracture of his left thumb) is getting closer to a “Septemberish” return.
Manager Rob Thomson informed reporters that if all goes well for Harper on Sunday, he will take live batting practice on the field in Philadelphia on Monday. The next step in his progression — assuming there are no setbacks — would be to simulate high velocity in the cage.
After that, Harper will head to one lucky Phillies minor league affiliate for a rehab assignment. Thomson said the team hasn’t ruled out sending him to Florida for a more controlled rehab environment, but the team prefers him to see some higher level pitching.