MLB Injury Update: Phillies' Bryce Harper eye Tuesday return; Padres' Fernando Tatis Jr’s injury break extension and more - July 7

As the Midsummer Classic just above the head, fans have chosen their favorites for this season’s All-Star game starters. The reserve list is scheduled to be released on Sunday, where the players who’ve wowed others will have the chance to play in the group of stars, including Shohei Ohtani, Aaron Judge, Juan Soto and Bryce Harper.

However, some players missed that opportunity as they were sidelined due to injuries. Let’s look at the potential players who might join their respective teams ahead of the All-Star break, while a few selected candidates are hinting at their absence for the Midsummer Classic showdown.

MLB Injury Updates for July 7

Bryce Harper

Philadelphia Phillies have three starters in the NL All-Star team, starting with Bryce Harper, who was chosen by fans in the Phase One voting for the first base. It’s his eighth All-Star invitation and his second since joining the Phillies.

However, things may not go smoothly for him. Harper has been dealing with a hamstring injury since June 27 after his game against the Miami Marlins. Although it doesn’t appear to be a pressing issue, it is concerning enough to put in a 10-day IL list. He might miss the All-Star game on July 16 at Globe Life Field.

Matt Gelb of The Athletic reported that Harper had a good run this morning under the supervision of Rob Thomson and Dave Dombrowski, and “possibly” return for the Dodgers series starting from Tuesday.

Clayton Kershaw

Another veteran All-Star, Los Angeles Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw, has yet to begin his season. He was sidelined after undergoing shoulder surgery (glenohumeral ligaments and capsule).

The Athletic’s Fabian Ardaya reported that Kershaw is facing live batters like Cavan Biggio and James Outman at Dodger Stadium. If all goes well, Dave Roberts, Dodgers manager, has plans for at least two rehab games before his debut in the majors.

Fernando Tatis Jr.

An All-Star game without “El Nino of MLB” is tough to accept. However, Fernando Tatis Jr. has been on 10-day IL since June 22 after having a stress reaction in his right thigh.

According to Mike Shildt, the Padres manager, his injury break might get extended, leading him to miss the Midsummer Classic for the third straight year.

Jordan Montgomery

One of the offseason's sensational pitchers and reigning World Series-winning ace, Jordan Montgomery, may soon resume his season, Jesse Friedman of PHNX Sports reported.

Montgomery, who joined the 10-day IL last month with knee inflammation, threw flat grounds on Saturday, along with Eduardo Rodriguez and Merrill Kelly, the Arizona Diamondbacks manager, Torey Lovullo, said.

They had positive feedback and Montgomery could soon return to the team if things go well.