Phillies’ Bryce Harper says he could return by All-star break

Phillies slugger Bryce Harper joined his teammates at spring training and hasn’t ruled out being back by the All-star break following Tommy John surgery. “Things can change either way,” the two-time league MVP said Thursday.“i could be after, I could be before. But as right now that’s the date we kind of solidified. We’re not going to rush.”

Harper was hurt in April and last played right field on April 16 in Miami. He had surgery in November.“once I was done with surgery I took the time off that I needed to let it heal,” Harper said. “It’s still healing right now, still evolving. Just trying to see how I feel each day and go from there.”

Entering the fifth season of a $330 million, 13-year contract, Harper is currently taking swings with a bat but not facing pitches. “I’ve never dealt with anything like an elbow, so definitely it’s different waters for me,” Harper said.

Manager Rob Thomson said Harper probably won’t take batting practice before spring training ends. “You’ve got a lot of steps to go through,” Thomson said.“it’s just how he progresses through this, his stages. We’re going to take it slow with him. Obviously, he’s a great player and we want him back 100%.”

Harper had a platelet-rich plasma injection on his elbow in May and became a full-time designated hitter to finish the season, helping lead the Phillies to their first World Series since 2009. They lost to Houston in six games. Harper will DH when he returns, It is expected to be a while before he starts throwing.“i want to play the outfield,” Harper said. “I want to get back out there and be in front of the fans in right field doing my stuff.”