Bryce Harper takes batting practice before Nationals’ game
Bryce Harper on Sunday took batting practice for the first time since hurting his knee last month.
The Washington Nationals outfielder was seen taking swings at Nationals Park before his team’s game against the Dodgers later that night.
Bryce Harper is taking BP right now. pic.twitter.com/pl8lMYSztL
— Jorge Castillo (@jorgeccastillo) September 17, 2017
The Washington Post’s Jorge Castillo says Harper looked good and showed some of his typical power.
Harper just hit a ball like 450 feet then 3 more bombs. So that's good.
— Jorge Castillo (@jorgeccastillo) September 17, 2017
Harper seems to be getting closer to making a return. He did some light running during the week, and then Sunday he also ran to first for the first time since his injury.
Harper said that was the first time hitting on the field since the injury. He also ran to first for the first time. Progress.
— Jorge Castillo (@jorgeccastillo) September 17, 2017
Harper also said he hoped to be ready for the playoffs.
Harper on if he'll be ready for Game 1 of the NLDS: "I hope so."
— Jorge Castillo (@jorgeccastillo) September 17, 2017
Nationals GM Mike Rizzo said something similar during the week, sharing that Washington was optimistic that Harper would be able to return for the postseason.
Harper has been out since Aug. 12. He’s batting .326 with 27 doubles and 29 home runs this season.