Phillies prepping Bryce Harper to possibly play first base after he returns from injured list, per report

Philadelphia Phillies slugger Bryce Harper is continuing to work his way back from the Tommy John surgery he underwent last November. As the team ponders his welcome return to the lineup, a new possible role has emerged for Harper.

As Matt Gelb of The Athletic reports, Harper approached the team about playing first base at some point after his return to the active roster, and the club liked the idea enough to proceed with it. Gelb writes:

“This week, the Phillies initiated the plan. They are preparing Harper to play first base later this season. This does not affect his timetable to return to the Phillies’ lineup — he will still return as the designated hitter because he will be cleared to hit in games before he is cleared to throw. But if Harper takes to the new position, the Phillies think it could allow him to return to the field sooner than if he played right field.”

The Phillies have a need at the position because incumbent Rhys Hoskins suffered a major knee injury in spring training that may sideline him for the entire season. As the Phillies and Harper realize, first base would presumably tax his surgically repaired throwing arm less than right field would.