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Phillies fans collectively swallowed their tongues during Friday’s Grapefruit League exhibition game against the Toronto Blue Jays when Bryce Harper was forced to leave the game after getting hit by a pitch on his ankle.
Ouch.
— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) March 15, 2019
Bryce Harper exits today's game after being hit in his right ankle. pic.twitter.com/RIZHGluHQM
Harper rolled around on the ground after being hit by a Trent Thornton fastball on his ankle, making a terrible sound on impact. Harper had to be helped off the field by trainers, and as of now, there’s no indication as to the severity of his injury.
However, there may be hope it’s not too serious.
He is, however, up and walking around the Phillies dugout.
— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) March 15, 2019
The broadcast said Harper walked to the complex under his own power, presumably to get an X-ray, but it’s likely the Phils will be cautious with him.
Bryce Harper walks off, gingerly, back to the clubhouse after being hit in the right ankle. pic.twitter.com/53GFqy6TrR
— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) March 15, 2019
Harper was expected to be in the lineup on Saturday and Sunday, but those starts are now in doubt. He was 0-for-2 in three plate appearances with that hit-by-pitch in his final at-bat.
Check back here for any updates on Harper’s status.
*** UPDATE ***
Harper has a right foot contusion, Kapler says. Harper is going to get an X-ray, but as of right now, “We don’t have reason for major concern,” Kapler said. #Phillies
— Meghan Montemurro (@M_Montemurro) March 15, 2019
*** UPDATE ***
Bryce Harper initial imaging was negative according to GM Matt Klentak. He will be reevaluated tomorrow.
— Jim Bowden (@JimBowdenGM) March 15, 2019