Bryce Harper's Stats, Metrics, Game Logs, Projections & Rankings

Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper (back) was held out of the lineup for the fifth consecutive day in Tuesday's 0-0 Grapefruit League tie with the Tigers. The 31-year-old has been dealing with back stiffness. However, manager Rob Thompson said, "He took ground balls today and swung the bat. He's feeling better." It does not sound like a serious injury, and the Phillies may simply be playing it safe with one of their top players. Fortunately, at this time, it seems like the organization is not worried about his health heading into Opening Day.

Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper (back) has been out of the lineup since Thursday, which has raised some concerns about his health. On Sunday, Phillies manager Rob Thompson confirmed that Harper is dealing with minor back stiffness. The lefty slugger has been out since Thursday and will remain out until at least Tuesday. It's worth noting that the organization is not concerned about this being a long term issue. Thompson says that Harper should be back in the lineup by the end of the week. That being said, fantasy managers shouldn't be concerned about Harper's health heading into Opening Day.

Both Philadelphia Phillies management and first baseman Bryce Harper have expressed interest in an extension that would keep Harper on the team through the end of his career. However, managing partner John Middleton said on Monday, "We need to get something done, but when we get it done and how it gets done, it's not clear to me." The team agreed to a three-year, $126 million extension with starting pitcher Zack Wheeler on Monday, and Harper currently has eight years remaining on a 13-year, $330 million contract. The 31-year-old had another strong season in 2023, slashing .293/.401/.499 with 21 home runs, 84 runs scored, 74 RBI, and 11 stolen bases in 546 plate appearances.

Philadelphia Phillies manager Rob Thomson said that first baseman Bryce Harper and catcher J.T. Realmuto are expected to make their Grapefruit League debuts on Wednesday against the Atlanta Braves. Harper and Realmuto are just getting a few days in camp to ramp up. Harper is making the full-time transition from the outfield to first base in 2024, but it's unclear if he'll be eased in as the designated hitter early in spring games. The 31-year-old former MVP got a late start to last season while recovering from Tommy John surgery in 2022 but finished with a strong .293/.401/.499 slash line with a .900 OPS, 21 home runs, 72 RBI and 11 stolen bases in 126 games. Harper is no longer eligible in the outfield for fantasy managers, but with him ready to go to start the 2024 season, he should be viewed as a top-five fantasy first baseman in 2024.