Bryce Harper leaves Phillies-Blue Jays game after being hit in the elbow by pitch

Philadelphia Phillies star pitcher Bryce Harper left Wednesday’s game against the Toronto Blue Jays after being hit in the left elbow by a pitch.

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

Harper stayed in the game to take first base, but did not return to the plate. Edmundo Sosa replaced Harper in the third inning.

THE The Phillies radio broadcast was announced later Harper suffered a contusion to his elbow, the club said. Details of Harper’s injury and prognosis were not immediately available.

An eight-time All-Star and two-time National League 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 surgery and entered Wednesday’s game hitting .282/.371/.521 with 26 homers and 76 RBIs in 122 games.

The Phillies entered Wednesday’s game with an 82-56 record and a seven-game lead over the Atlanta Braves for the lead in the National League East. Harper, of course, is key to Philadelphia’s hopes of competing for a World Series this fall.