Phillies Place Star OF Bryce Harper on Paternity Leave
The Philadelphia Phillies will unfortunately be without superstar outfielder Bryce Harper for a few games. Fear not, Phils fans, as the $330 million man isn't dealing with an injury.
Instead, Harper was placed on on paternity leave, as he and his wife Kayla are expecting their first child. He can remain on leave for three days, so he'll be back by Monday.
Bryce Harper is on paternity leave https://t.co/ed58yNX0zk via @HardballTalk
— Craig Calcaterra (@craigcalcaterra) August 23, 2019
Congratulations are in order for the Phillies' slugger and Kayla. The two announced the pregnancy on Instagram shortly after Harper chose to sign his 13-year deal in Philadelphia.
Harper has been on a power surge recently, stroking seven home runs and 18 RBIs in his last 11 games. The Phillies are 7-4 in those games, helping them creep back into the race for the NL Wild Card.
Perhaps he'll be playing with some added "dad strength" when he returns to the team after the birth of his son.
In a corresponding move, the team recalled Maikel Franco from Triple-A. Franco, formerly a glistening prospect for the Phillies, was sent down on Aug. 4 due to his struggles at the plate. During his time with the Phillies this season, he hit .231 with a .286 OBP, despite an incredible start to the year.
We're incredibly happy for Bryce and Kayla as they welcome their first child into the world.