Will Bryce Harper Miss the All-Star Game? Freddie Freeman Wishes Him a Speedy Recovery as He Prepares to Be a Starter

Dodger’s ace Freddie Freeman made seven All-Star game appearances between 2013 and 2023. Yet again, for the eighth time, he has been nominated for the MLB All-Star game that will take place on Friday, July 16, at the Globe Life Field. Alongside him, LAD’s four more players have been privileged to represent their club. Joining Freeman, Dodger’s star Shohei Ohtani, outfielder Teoscar Hernandez, catcher Will Smith, and shortstop Mookie Betts will be a part of the event. 

However, starring at the other end, Phillies Bryce Harper’s injury is still a slight concern for his All-Star appearance. On June 27, he was put on a 10-day injured list right after his hamstring injury. As he is recovering, fans are hopeful for his potential return. Eventually, extending his support for Bryce Harper, Freddie had a few words to say for the Philadelphia Phillies veteran. 

Freddie Freeman’s heartwarming words for Phillies star Bryce Harper

Freddie Freeman spoke with the reporters after the Dodgers lost 2-9 against the Milwaukee Brewers. Initially, reflecting upon Bryce Harper’s injury and his potential return, he said,  “I hope Bryce is okay, I really Do. Fans want to see him, who knows. But, hopefully, Bryce is okay; it is good for Baseball.” Indeed, the Phillies’ offensive department looked sluggish after Bryce Harper’s hamstring injury. It was all due to the mishap as he attempted to extend his leg and score a single that led him to the potential injury. 

On the other hand, Freddie Freeman is performing well for the Dodgers. In the initial months of the 2024 season, he was struggling. However, improving each month, he showed his true caliber, hitting at .301 with 13 home runs, 58 RBIs, and four stolen bases. Additionally, his 157 wRC+ and 3.3 fWAR are second-best in the league. At the top, it’s Bryce Harper, sitting with 169 wRC+ and a 3.9 WAR. Still, Freeman does lead the pack when it comes to the doubles. 

Regarding his All-Star selection history, he made back-to-back All-Star selections in 2013 and 2014. Also, last year in 2023, Freddie Freeman became just the third Dodgers first baseman to be a starter in the All-Star Game. Previously, only Steve Garvey and Gil Hodges were given the same privileges from 1974 to 1980. Perhaps, while at one end, it’s Freeman, Harper is not left behind. He equals the Dodger’s ace player record and might embark on his eighth appearance at the All-Star game. Although this recent injury is a concern for Harper, there’s undoubtedly good news for the fans. 

Bryce Harper caught sprint-testing before the Phillies game

While the Philadelphia Phillies are in a comfortable position in the NL West, Harper’s injury came as a setback. Still, multiple scans were done after the injury, and reports looked positive. Thereafter, Bryce was involved in multiple training sessions, and recovery seemed inevitable. Additionally, he was seen running the bases ahead of the clash that took place on Saturday against the Braves. 

Regarding a potential comeback, MLB Insider Ken Rosenthal had snippets regarding Bryce: “Harper will probably return late next week, but Kyle Schwarber he’s going to be back first.” Apart from Bryce’s injury, Schwarber also suffered a left groin injury. Therefore, Kyle might return first, followed by Bryce Harper, who is not far behind. 

Undoubtedly, Bryce Harper has earned his position for the All-Star Game. Before the recent injury, he has been a prime asset for the Phillies. Analyzing his last 76 games, the two-time MVP hit 20 homers and 20 doubles. Also, he’s Phillies first baseman to record an astonishing .981 OPS and a 3.7 WAR. For the All-Star game selection, Harper got the most number of votes, beating Freddie Freeman of the Dodgers. Altogether, the event is still a week away, and Harper has ample days to recover.

Will he make the All-Star Game for the 8th time? What do you think? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!