Bryce Harper leaves Phillies-Blue Jays game after getting hit by pitch on elbow

Philadelphia Phillies All-Star Bryce Harper left Wednesday's game against the Toronto Blue Jays after getting hit by a pitch on his left elbow.

The incident occurred in the first inning with Philadelphia leading 1-0. Blue Jays starter Bowden Francis threw a 93 mph fastball inside that hit Harper on his left elbow. Harper immediately dropped his bat and clutched his elbow in pain.

Harper remained in the game to take first base but did not return to the plate. Edmundo Sosa pinch hit for Harper in the third inning.

The Phillies radio broadcast later announced that Harper sustained an elbow contusion, citing the club. After the game, Harper told reporters that he feels "fine" and doesn't anticipate missing any time.

“I just don’t know how good I’ll feel if I take one or two days,” Harper said. “You know what I’m saying? I feel like I’ll feel the same if I do take two days off or anything like that.

“So, that’s a conversation we’ve had before, but I just feel like I’m going to feel the exact same if I do take two or three days off and come back. I’ll feel the same.”

An eight-time All-Star and two-time NL MVP, Harper was sidelined for parts of the 2022 and 2023 seasons after Tommy John surgery on his right elbow. He has returned to All-Star form since the procedure and entered Wednesday's game slashing .282/.371/.521 with 26 home runs and 76 RBI in 122 games.

The Phillies entered Wednesday with an 82-56 record and a seven-game lead over the Atlanta Braves in the NL East. Harper, of course, is key to Philadelphia's hopes of competing for a championship in the fall.