Harper went 2-for-3 with a two-run homer and a walk in Thursday's 5-0 win over Cincinnati.
After missing Philadelphia's last three games while on the paternity list, Harper returned with a bang Thursday, launching a two-run homer off Nick Martinez to extend the Phillies lead to 4-0 in the third inning. After a slow start to the year, Harper's starting to turn it around at the plate -- he's hit safely in his last seven games, going 10-for-24 with two home runs and nine RBI in that span. He's boosted his slash line to .256/.347/.488 with five homers and 16 RBI across 22 games this season.
Phillies' Bryce Harper: Reinstated from paternity leave
Rotowire
The Phillies reinstated Harper (personal) from the paternity leave list Thursday.
Harper missed the first three games of the series in Cincinnati after welcoming his third child into the world, but he's back for the series finale in Cincinnati. The two-time MVP will start at first base and bat third against the Reds.
The Phillies placed Harper (personal) on the paternity list ahead of Monday's game against the Reds.
Per MLB rules, players placed on the paternity list have to miss between one and three games, so expect Harper to take the maximum amount of time to welcome in the newest addition to his family. Harper could link back up with the Phillies in Cincinnati on Thursday for the club's series finale with the Reds. Infielder Kody Clemens was recalled from Triple-A Lehigh Valley in a corresponding move.
