Bryce Harper sets All-Star break as ballpark for return

CLEARWATER, Fla. — Philadelphia Phillies slugger Bryce Harper has joined his teammates at spring training and hasn't ruled out being back by the All-Star break following Tommy John surgery.

«Things can change either way,» the two-time National League MVP said Thursday. «I could be after, I could be before. But as right now, that's the date we kind of solidified. We're not going to rush. We're going to be smart about it.»

Dressed in red Phillies shorts with pinstripes and a white workout shirt, Harper sat on top of a picnic table outside the clubhouse.

«Just excited to be back out here, some sunshine and some warm weather,» Harper said. «Just really excited to be around the team again.»

Harper was hurt in April and last played right field April 16 in Miami. He underwent surgery in November.

«Once I was done with surgery, I took the time off that I needed to let it heal,» Harper said. «It's still healing right now, still evolving. Just trying to see how I feel each day and go from there.»

Entering the fifth season of a 13-year, $330 million contract, Harper is taking swings with a bat but not facing pitches.

«I've never dealt with anything like an elbow, so definitely it's different waters for me,» Harper said. «Just trying to take it day by day.»

Harper had a platelet-rich plasma injection on his elbow in May and became a full-time designated hitter to finish the season, helping lead the Phillies to their first World Series appearance since 2009. They lost to the Houston Astros in six games.

He will DH when he returns. It is expected to be a while before he starts a throwing program.

«Of course, I want to play the outfield,» Harper said. «I want to get back out there and be in front of the fans in right field doing my