Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Phillies provide update on Bryce Harper's future in OF

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 8/5/23

Philadelphia Phillies slugger Bryce Harper hasn't played the outfield in over a year, and it appears he won't be back out there anytime soon.

Speaking with reporters ahead of Saturday's contest with the Kansas City Royals, Phillies manager Rob Thomson made it sound unlikely Harper will play the outfield in 2023.

"I wouldn't think so, not at this point, unless something changes," Thomson said.

Bryce Harper likely won't return to outfield again this season. #Phillies

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The news shouldn't come as much of a surprise. Thomson said as much in late July when asked if Harper would man the outfield sometime this season, responding, "Never say never, but probably not."

Harper's last start in the outfield came in April 2022. However, an elbow injury relegated him to designated hitter duties, and he underwent Tommy John surgery during the offseason. After making a sooner-than-expected return in May, Harper began a transition to first base, making his first start there on July 21. Since mixing in occasional starts at first, Harper has surprised even his manager with his play there.

Meanwhile, learning a new position hasn't hurt him at the plate. In the Phillies' 9-6 victory Saturday night, Harper finished 3-of-4 with a two-run home run. On the year, Harper is batting .296/.387/.422 with six homers and 34 RBI over 78 games.