Bryce Harper is in the leadoff spot for Wednesday’s showdown against the Reds.
It’s an unusual development to see Harper atop Philadelphia’s lineup with speedster Trea Turner receiving a rare day off. It’s unlikely to be more than a one-game occurrence. The 33-year-old first baseman has put together a strong first-half performance with an .884 OPS and 20 homers through 92 games. He’s headed to the Midsummer Classic, which the Phillies are hosting next week at Citizens Bank Park, for the ninth time in his legendary career.