The Phillies are heading out on a road trip to Chicago and Atlanta without Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, and J.T. Realmuto. However, all three players are making progress in their recovery. Harper, who suffered a hamstring strain, and Schwarber, with a groin strain, were spotted hitting in the batting cages on Tuesday at Wrigley Field. Realmuto, who underwent a right knee meniscectomy, did receiving drills and hit on the field for the first time since June 12, having only hit indoors in the cage prior to that.
Manager Rob Thomson expressed optimism that the trio is not far away from rejoining the team as they are jogging and coming along well. While a specific date for their return has not been set, Thomson mentioned that Realmuto might make his return post-All-Star break as he is known to be a quick healer. The Phillies have managed decently without the trio, winning two of three games over the weekend without Harper and Schwarber. Even with their worst 20-game stretch of the season, the Phillies have only dropped one game in the standings but are still holding an eight-game division lead over the Braves. Moving forward, the team will rely on players like Nick Castellanos and Trea Turner to step up and contribute in the absence of key players to keep the season on track.