Bryce Harper was removed from the game on Tuesday after being struck on the elbow by a 95-mph fastball from Atlanta Braves starter Spencer Strider. The incident occurred during a regular season matchup at Citizens Bank Park.
The pitch hit the same elbow that Harper had previously injured, prompting immediate attention from the Phillies’ medical staff. Harper exited the game following the play, and the situation generated discussion about a potential response from the Philadelphia team.
The following games came and went without any form of payback. No brushbacks. No inside heat. And no retribution. When asked about the lack of response, Philadelphia’s manager Rob Thomson offered a calm, straightforward answer that set the tone for his team’s approach.
Rob Thomson’s clear message
Rather than inflaming the situation, Thomson addressed the incident with measured clarity. Speaking to reporters before Thursday’s double-header, he dismissed the idea of retaliation.
“Because it’s not on purpose. Simple as that,” Thomson said. “If I think somebody is throwing at one of our hitters, I don’t know what I’d do, but if it’s a pitch that gets away from a pitcher, which I believe it was, and I think that everybody in that clubhouse thinks it was, that’s baseball. It happens.”
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His comments drew a line between reckless intent and routine mistakes. In a sport that often thrives on unwritten codes and emotional reactions, the Phillies manager opted for professionalism over provocation.
Reaction from Braves pitcher
Following the incident, Strider showed signs of concern regarding Harper’s condition. No disciplinary action or warnings were issued during or after the game. There was no further escalation between the teams, and gameplay resumed under normal conditions.
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Injury update on Harper
Manager Thomson provided a medical update regarding Harper’s status, confirming that the injury did not appear to be serious. Harper is expected to return soon, pending ongoing evaluations and absence of complications. No additional updates have been released by the team regarding his exact timeline for return.
