Phillies' Harper Misses Game 1 Elbow Injury, Game 2 Status Uncertain

Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper is sidelined for the first game of Thursday's doubleheader against the Atlanta Braves due to a right elbow injury sustained when hit by a 95 mph fastball. X-rays showed no fracture, but Harper has swelling and pain, making his participation in the second game uncertain though he is reportedly feeling better. Phillies manager Rob Thomson expressed optimism about Harper's progress after treatment, noting it was better than expected, but Harper has not yet swung a bat and remains day-to-day. In Harper's absence, Alec Bohm has moved to first base and cleanup hitter, with Edmundo Sosa starting at third. Thomson hopes Harper will wear an elbow guard upon his return, despite Harper finding it somewhat uncomfortable. Harper has been a key player this season, recently achieving a milestone of 1,000 RBIs, runs, and walks before age 33, marking him as one of MLB's elite players.