Some sports statistics simply don't make sense. For example: The Philadelphia Phillies have a superior record this season (35-26) without two-time National League MVP Bryce Harper in the lineup than they do with him (35-29), but it's safe to say the Phillies will be that much better Friday when Harper is activated off the injured list and in the lineup. Philadelphia is a big home favorite at Caesars Sportsbook against the Pirates, but won't have ace Zack Wheeler on the mound as planned.
Harper hasn't pla yed since taking a pitch from the Padres' Blake Snell off his left thumb on June 25. The pitch was coming toward Harper's head so he raised his left hand to protect himself, which resulted in a fracture. He had surgery a few days later and while there was always optimism that he would return this season, it wasn't a sure thing. Instead, he will be back ahead of schedule.
In 64 games this season, he was hitting .318 with 15 homers, 48 RBI, an OPS of .985 and a WAR of 2.6. Harper's odds to repeat as NL MVP shifted from +1400 to +5000 at BetMGM after the diagnosis.
Since last year's All-Star break, Harper has played in 137 games and slashed .328/.433/.656 with a 1.089 OPS, 103 runs, 49 doubles, two triples, 35 home runs, 98 RBI, 91 walks and 15 stolen bases. Among all MLB players with at least 500 plate appearances since last year's break, Harper ranks first in OPS and slugging, and second in on-base percentage and batting average.
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