Philadelphia’s Harper is ready for season despite ankle injury

Bryce Harper sat out the Philadelphia Phillies’ spring game against the Astros, saying he’s “a little sore” one day after getting hit by a pitch on his right ankle.

Manager Gabe Kapler said he had no concerns about Harper being ready for opening day on March 28 against Atlanta.

Harper, who recently signed a record $330 million, 13-year contract, agreed. “As of right now, no,” Harper said. “If I felt that way then I’d probably tell you guys. I really don’t.”

X-rays were negative and Harper was day to day.

When asked about dodging a major injury, Harper replied, “I wish I would have dodged the ball.”

Astros

Absurd as it sounds, Houston manager A.J. Hinch got ejected from a spring training game — repeat: a spring training game — Friday night. More ridiculous, he got tossed just one pitch into the Astros game against St. Louis. Home plate umpire Angel Hernandez said Hinch was “arguing balls and strikes.” Hinch afterward called Hernandez “unprofessional” and “arrogant.” Hernandez told a reporter: “He said that? Write it.” Something says this wasn’t about just one pitch.”

Nationals

From the pitch-accompanying grunts to the pawing at the mound with his cleats, from the nine Ks to the 14 consecutive outs, Max Scherzer looked to be ready for the regular season. Scherzer allowed one run and four hits in six innings against the Cardinals Saturday in his next-to-last outing before the opener. “He knows it’s getting to be that time.” Nationals manager Dave Martinez said.