Harper On The Verge Of Incredibly Quick Comeback for Philadelphia Phillies

Bryce Harper is scheduled for a checkup on his surgically repaired elbow in early May.

If all goes well, there’s an outside chance he could be activated in time for the three-game home series against the Boston Red Sox May 5-7. If not this series, then the comeback could begin in mid-May.

That would be an amazing comeback for the Philadelphia Phillies’ incredibly talented player.

The world saw how valuable Harper was last season, even as a designated hitter as the Phillies came within two victories of capturing their first World Series title since 2008.

Harper had Tommy John surgery on Nov. 23.

Returning in early May would be a near miracle.

"It really is (amazing)," Phillies manager Rob Thomson told 94.1 WIP of Harper’s quick timeline. "It's a testament to him and our training staff because he's worked extremely hard. If it happens when it happens, he's gonna be one of the quickest if not the quickest guy back from this injury in history."

Harper has been fielding ground balls at first base, taking live batting practice and running the bases with feet-first slides. He looks great.

Harper has said that he feels great.

When the games resume for real, we all know what type of competitive player and person Harper can be. That’s why the passionate Phillies fan base loves him. He goes all out all the time.

That’s what could be troublesome, too.

If Harper does return in early May and hits a ball into the gap, it’s unlikely that he’ll ease around the bases. He’ll go on instinct.

What if Harper decides to take an extra base and throws his body into a headfirst slide? That could easily happen.

The medical team obviously won’t clear Harper if they don’t believe that he’s ready.

Since this would be an early return, it’s natural to wonder if it’s too early.

The Phillies need to look at the long-term impact here, not just winning games now. It can’t be easy.

Harper’s first home game back will be an intense atmosphere at Citizens Bank Park.

For the Phillies to make a deep postseason run once again, they’ll need Harper healthy. Sounds obvious, but it’s also true.

Stay tuned here. This storyline will continue to develop. And the Phillies will go as far as Harper can take them. Without him, they can reach the playoffs. With him, they can win it all.

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