NEW YORK — In an unexpected turn of events, Bryce Harper was pulled from the Phillies’ lineup due to a migraine, just moments before the game against the New York Mets at Citi Field was set to begin on Tuesday. This decision came after Harper was hit in the head by an errant throw from Mets catcher Tomas Nido during the first inning of Monday’s matchup. Though he completed the game, concerns arose regarding whether the migraine was a result of the incident.
Phillies’ manager Rob Thomson, however, clarified the situation, stating that the migraine and the hit Harper took were unconnected. Despite being sidelined, Thomson noted in a postgame discussion that Harper’s condition improved within a couple of hours, making him an option for pinch-hitting duties if needed.
In addition to Harper’s situation, the Phillies received promising updates on another key player. J.T.
Realmuto, sidelined with a knee issue, showed significant progress, engaging in running, batting practice in the cages, and defensive drills including catching pitch sessions from Aaron Nola. This bustling activity comes as Realmuto gears up for a likely return in Wednesday’s game against the Mets, providing nothing unexpected occurs.
With Harper out of action, the Phillies adopted an unconventional infield setup with Alec Bohm at first base, Kody Clemens at second, Bryson Stott at shortstop, and Whit Merrifield taking over at third base. This alignment, although atypical, proved effective especially behind a near flawless pitching performance from Nola, who kept a perfect game alive into the sixth inning. Clemens, in particular, shone defensively, pulling off impressive plays against Mets hitters Brandon Nimmo and Francisco Lindor and contributing to a seamless 5-4-3 double play that concluded a notably efficient seventh inning for Nola.
The rationale behind this field positioning, as Thomson explained, was to leverage the preparedness of Stott and Clemens in their pregame infield positions, ensuring a solid middle infield defense against the Mets.
Thanks to Nola’s complete game, the Phillies’ bullpen remains fully stocked and ready for action in Wednesday’s game. On the contrary, the Mets faced pitching dilemmas on Tuesday, leading to strategic adjustments for Wednesday’s game.
Adrian Houser, initially set to start, was seen warming up during the Phillies’ ninth inning rally. This led to a change in plans, with the Mets expected to bring up lefty Joey Lucchesi for his season debut, as reported by Joel Sherman of the New York Post.