Philadelphia Phillies superstar Bryce Harper announced a change he will be making following his recent elbow injury.
Harper exited Tuesday’s game against the Atlanta Braves after being hit by a 95 mph fastball from Spencer Strider and hasn’t played since. This isn’t the first time Harper has been hit in the elbow this season, as pitchers typically throw high and in against the 32-year-old.
While being asked about the swelling in his elbow by On Pattison’s Tim Kelly, Harper opened up on his plans to wear an elbow guard now and how he’s not frustrated with the rate at which he gets hit up and in.
“Yeah, I mean, I think that’s where teams try to go against me,” Harper said. “It’s a bummer just because guys throw so hard now, but that’s where guys go. I understand throwing inside, I totally get that, I’m all for it in baseball. But, just control. Guys throw a little too hard now to do that, up and in, things like that.”
“Yeah, I mean, I’m not going to back off the plate, I’ve always kind of been on top of the plate. Like I said, I totally understand throwing inside, it’s just a little scarier nowadays since guys throw harder. So wearing a brace, wearing an arm guard, it helps a little bit.”
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Harper has typically not worn an elbow guard throughout his career, but he plans to prioritize his safety as pitchers continue throwing harder and faster. The Phillies need Harper to remain healthy, as he is one of the top players in the league, if they want to make a deep playoff run this season.
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