The Phillies are currently on a six-game road trip to Chicago and Atlanta without key players Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, and J.T. Realmuto. However, all three players are making progress with their injuries. Harper and Schwarber, who are dealing with a hamstring strain and groin strain respectively, hit in the batting cages at Wrigley Field. Realmuto participated in receiving drills and hit on the field for the first time since undergoing knee surgery on June 12. He has been hitting indoors in the cage in the days leading up to this.
Despite their absence, the Phillies managed to win two out of three games over the weekend. The team has a division lead of eight games over the Braves, but their performance in the next week to 10 days will be crucial with a short-handed lineup.
The manager, Rob Thomson, provided an update on Harper and Schwarber, stating that they are progressing well and could potentially return soon. While a specific date has not been set, Thomson expects to have more information in the next couple of days.
Harper and Schwarber are both eligible to be activated on July 9 when the Phillies return home for a six-game homestand. Realmuto is not far behind in his recovery, with Thomson suggesting a post-All-Star break return.
Players like Nick Castellanos and Trea Turner will need to step up to fill the void left by the injured players. With key players out of action for an extended period of time, it’s important for these players to rise above expectations if they want to keep their division lead intact.
In summary, despite being shorthanded due to injuries, the Phillies have managed well so far during their road trip. However, they will need strong performances from their remaining players in order to maintain their lead over division rivals such as the Braves.
