The Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies delivered another chapter in their growing rivalry Tuesday night, but the headlines quickly shifted from the final score to a potentially alarming scene in the first inning. With just one out in the game, Bryce Harper took a 95-mph fastball from Spencer Strider directly off his right elbow.
Harper, who has battled back from Tommy John surgery on that very elbow, immediately exited in visible discomfort. Though Philadelphia would go on to shut out Atlanta 2-0 and improve their league-best record to 35-19, the moment cast a shadow over the win. X-rays later confirmed no fracture, diagnosing the two-time MVP with a right elbow contusion—an outcome that, while not catastrophic, still carries weight for a team with postseason ambitions.
In the aftermath, Strider addressed the incident with a blend of remorse and realism. His comments offered insight into a pitcher’s mindset when the game plan collides with unintended consequences.
Strider addresses the hit: “I do feel bad”
Asked about the pitch that forced Harper out of the game, Strider insisted there was no malice behind it. “Certainly not trying to hit him,” the Braves right-hander said via NBC Sports Philadelphia. “In the moment, I just assumed he had a guard on and was just pissed that I hit him. Then I saw him in pain, and that was tough.”
That moment of realization appeared to shift Strider’s tone, as he acknowledged the weight of seeing a star player in distress—especially one of Harper’s stature. “He’s one of the best players this century,” Strider added. “He needs to be on the field. It’s best for the game, and it’s good for us. It’s good to compete against him.”
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While he expressed regret, Strider didn’t shy away from the competitive balance he must maintain as a starter. “I’m not a complete sociopath, so I have some empathy. I do feel bad for him, to see a person in pain that I caused. But I’ve still got a job to do.”
A frustrating start to 2025 for Strider
Tuesday’s game marked only the third start of the season for Strider, who was sidelined early in the year. The 2023 All-Star has yet to find his rhythm, falling to 0-3 with a 4.50 ERA. While his strikeout numbers remain respectable, command and consistency have eluded him in high-pressure moments.
Harper’s health overshadows Phillies’ dominance
Despite losing Harper early, the Phillies kept their focus. Their bullpen combined for nine shutout innings, and timely hits from the middle of the lineup allowed them to secure the win. Still, all eyes remain on Harper’s recovery. Philadelphia has built its success this season on depth and resilience, but Harper remains the emotional core of the clubhouse.
