May 30, 2014; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals left fielder Bryce Harper works out before the game against the Texas Rangers at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Although the Nationals have suffered from injuries all season, none have been more damaging than the absences of Wilson Ramos and Bryce Harper.
After missing over a month early in the season with a broken hamate bone, Ramos returned to the disabled list earlier this month with a strained right hamstring. Fortunately for the Nationals, Ramos could begin his rehab assignment in the next few days and should be activated when he is eligible next Thursday.
Harper, on the other hand, has been out since May with a torn ligament in his left thumb. Harper could begin a rehab assignment in the minor leagues soon, but he likely won’t join the big league club until July.
"“I’m still trying to see where my swing’s at. … I don’t see myself coming back after five games or four games,” Harper told the Associated Press (via ESPN). “I really want to push it and see how I feel after eight, nine games down there. If I feel good before that, then I’ll see where I’m at.”"
While we still won’t get to see Ramos or Harper in the lineup for several days, both are well on their way back and both put on a killer performance during an early batting practice session Friday. Checkout the video below and stay tuned to District on Deck as we’ll continue to keep you updated on all Nationals injury news.