Two Philadelphia Phillies Stars Are Pushing Each Other In Road to Recovery

The Philadelphia Phillies need all the reinforcements they can get. Two of the stars are close to a return as they push each other in the road to recovery.

Before the Philadelphia Phillies split a doubleheader with the Chicago White Sox on Tuesday, there was a simulated game on the field.

And it’s all good news for the Phillies.

Left-hander Ranger Suarez threw about 25 pitches to Bryce Harper and Cristian Pache.

Suarez is expected to throw another simulated game when the team returns to Philadelphia for its upcoming seven-game homestand beginning Thursday against the Colorado Rockies.

If Suarez continues to progress, he could begin a Minor League rehab assignment.

"Just looked like Ranger," Harper said. "Sinkers, changeups, sliders -- everything. I hope he gets back healthy as soon as possible, because we definitely need him."

Harper is still recovering from Tommy John surgery and could come back anywhere between mid-May and mid-July depending on who you ask.

Harper also did some work at first base. He recently indicated to the Phillies that he’s open to playing first base at some point this season.

In addition, Harper has been practicing modified slides feet first. He still needs to be cleared for full slides.

Haper is expected to see Dr. Neal ElAttrache soon to check on how his elbow is healing.

But just seeing Suarez and Harper take another step forward is huge. The Phillies need both players healthy in order to make another deep postseason run.

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