Bryce Harper Exits Game After Hit by Pitch, Diagnosed with Elbow Contusion

Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper had to leave the game against the Atlanta Braves early after being hit by a pitch in the first inning, and has been diagnosed with a right elbow contusion after X-rays came back negative for any fractures.

"We'll just have to see tomorrow," Phillies manager Rob Thomson said after the game.

The 32-year-old is hitting .267 with eight home runs and 33 RBI on the season, sporting a .372 OBP, 13 doubles, and eight stolen bases in 53 games this season.

Four candidates to replace Harper in the lineup

If Harper is forced to miss time with his injury, the Phillies will be down their starting first baseman. Bohm would be the logical option to take over for Harper in the immediate future with Sosa handling third base,

The team could use Kyle Schwarber at first base, as he played there during Spring Training and has played in 11 big league games at first base.

Weston Wilson has played six games at first base and could be a short-term answer if Harper needed a few days off.

One other option on the current roster would be J.T. Realmuto, who played first base in 51 games.  It would be a way to get him out from behind the plate, but keep his bat in the lineup.

As far as who the Phillies could call up from Triple-A Lehigh if Harper needed some time on the Injured List, there is one interesting candidate that could get an opportunity.

Otto Kemp. Kemp is now hitting .319 with 12 home runs and 44 RBIs in 49 games at Triple-A this season. The right-handed hitter has played first, second, third base this season and the outfield.