Spring Shocker: Harper Will Not Be Placed on the 60-Day IL

In many of the discussions surrounding the Spring battles for positions included one note.  That would be that the Phillies would have a 60-man roster spot to use.  After all, the reasoning went, Bryce Harper would be sidelined until at least the All-Star Break and could be taken off of the 40-man roster via the 60-day injured list.  But that may not be the case.

In a Spring Training shocker, Phillies president Dave Dombrowski told radio station WIP-FM in Philadelphia that the Phillies were optimistic that Harper might be ready before May 29.  That would be the day that a 60-day injured list stint would end.  That is welcome news.

After undergoing "Tommy John" surgery this past offseason, the expectation was that Harper would not need a full year like a pitcher would need.  But most estimates placed Harper's return at or around the All-Star Break.

While Harper is likely limited to designated hitter duty when he returns, he would be a big boost to a Phillies lineup that might be pretty dynamic even without him.