Phillies Expected to Retaliate After Braves Hit Bryce Harper

During a tense game between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Atlanta Braves, Bryce Harper was hit on the elbow by a 95 mph fastball from Braves pitcher Spencer Strider, causing Harper to leave the game with an elbow contusion, though X-rays were negative. Former Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. has called for retaliation against the Braves, citing Strider's lack of command and history of hitting batters this season, asserting that even if the pitch was unintentional, retaliation is justified to uphold baseball's unwritten rules. Strider expressed regret over hitting Harper and insisted there was no intent to cause harm, emphasizing Harper's importance to the game. The incident has ignited debate over whether the Phillies will respond, with Amaro Jr. confident that retaliation will occur during the upcoming games between the teams. Harper's health is critical to Philadelphia's postseason aspirations, and this latest hit exacerbates concerns given his injury history. The teams are scheduled for a doubleheader shortly, heightening anticipation around any potential on-field repercussions.