Bryce Harper will have surgery on his broken left thumb Wednesday, Phillies manager Rob Thomson said before Tuesday night's game against the Atlanta Braves.
Thomson would offer no further details so it was not immediately known who would perform the surgery or where it would take place.
"Bryce will be in later in the week to address the situation," Thomson said.
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Thomson added, "He does plan to play (again this season)."
Thomson would not offer a timetable for Harper's return, but sources familiar with the situation believe Harper can be back during the second half of August. The definition of "back" is open to interpretation. While Harper could be healed and ready to swing a bat during the second half of August, he will likely require time to build strength and get his swing and timing back before he's ready to face major-league pitching. Having a healthy Harper back in the middle of the lineup by September 1 would seem to be a win for the club.
Harper sustained the injury when he was hit by a pitch from San Diego's Blake Snell on Saturday night. Surgery is required to stabilize the fracture during healing.
Harper has been serving as the team's designated hitter since injuring his elbow in April. Nick Castellanos moved from right field to DH for Tuesday night's game against Atlanta. The Phils went with an outfield of Kyle Schwarber in left, Mickey Moniak in center and Odubel Herrera in right against Braves right-hander Charlie Morton.
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Thomson said it was difficult to lose Harper, but surgery "was the best thing for him." Thomson said the team shares Harper's optimism of returning for important games later in the season.
"We plan on being in the mix," Thomson said.
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