Bryce Harper OUT against the Brewers

Harper (#34) leaves game after being hit by a pitch (Mike McGinnis/Getty Images)

Washington Nationals star right fielder, Bryce Harper, will not play today versus the Milwaukee Brewers. He was plunked with a 95 MPH fastball on his left knee yesterday. Harper hobbled off of the field, and would not return to the game. Although many feel this move is only to give him rest, Harper’s leg will be monitored in the future by fans, as well as the Nationals’ organization. He will be replaced by Clint Robinson in the order.

It was in the top of the 9th, Harper was looking at a 1-1 count, when Pitcher Michael Blazak hit him in the knee. A pinch runner came in for Harper, mainly as a precaution, and finished the game, as the Nationals won, 7-2.

After the game, he was asked how his knee felt, he responded:

“It hurts,” Harper said afterwards, still sporting a limp. “Really bad. … Squared me up pretty well. 95 to the knee don’t feel very good. We’ll see what happens tomorrow and see if it feels good.”

Harper was having one of his better games this season, as he was 3-3 with 3 singles, a walk, and 2 RBI’s.The Nationals will be without one of the hottest hitters in the MLB on Sunday, while Harper “rests”. Bryce is batting .344, with 21 homers and 51 RBI’s. He has been one of the best players in the league, and at only 22, he is taking the league by storm.

The Nationals are currently 2nd in the NL East, falling a half a game behind the New York Mets. They have one of the most consistent pitchers in the league pitching on Sunday in Max Scherzer, so that may help them in their race to first in the NL East.

Harper’s absence is scary for the Nationals, but shouldn’t be too big of a concern. His injury doesn’t seem to be too serious, and will most likely return to the lineup against the Rays tomorrow night.