Doubts about Bryce Harper's health linger ahead of the playoffs
The Nationals are on the verge of clinching the NL East, but their postseason hopes might rest on the shoulders of their right fielder. Literally. And that might not be a good thing.
Bryce Harper, the reigning unanimous NL MVP, has been in a months-long slump, which might be due to a right shoulder injury. Earlier this week, Sports Illustrated’s Tom Verducci reported that Harper has been playing injured. It's claim the Nationals have repeatedly denied, as has Harper himself. But he slid headfirst twice on Wednesday — something he seemingly wouldn’t have done if he were in pain.
There was enough doubt about his condition, however, that Nationals GM Mike Rizzo had a closed-door meeting with Harper, manager Dusty Baker and trainer Paul Lessard on Wednesday, according to The Washington Post. From that report:
So, either Harper is fine, or he’s not being truthful with anyone in the organization. But if he is healthy, what’s behind his massive dip in production? A season after leading the majors in on-base percentage (.460) and slugging percentage (.649), Harper is at .374 and .439, respectively. And his batting average has dipped from .330 to .240.
Rizzo shared his theory with The Post:
Washington had better hope so. It likely will be without co-ace Stephen Strasburg (elbow) in the playoffs and needs a healthy Harper.
