CINCINNATI, OHIO – The Philadelphia Phillies made a significant announcement ahead of their series opener against the Cincinnati Reds on Monday. Star first baseman Bryce Harper has been placed on the paternity list, a move that allows him to be by his wife Kayla’s side as they welcome their third child.
Having been a key player in almost every game of the team’s first 22 matches of the season, Harper’s absence will be felt by the Phillies as they aim to extend their impressive 6-game winning streak. Throughout this period, Harper showcased his skills with a .381 batting average and a stellar 1.033 OPS, delivering crucial hits including a double, a home run, and 7 runs batted in.
Per the regulations outlined in the Basic Agreement, Harper is eligible to be away from the team for up to three days to support his wife during the birth of their child. This decision comes as the couple prepares to expand their family, joining their two children, son Krew and daughter Brooklyn.
Filling in for Harper on the 26-man roster is infielder Kody Clemens, who has been called up from Triple-A Lehigh Valley. Clemens, with a prior stint in the major leagues for the Phillies in 2023, displayed his capabilities with a .230 batting average, 11 extra-base hits, including four home runs, and a .644 OPS. Notably, his performance included a game-winning double in the ninth inning against the Detroit Tigers on June 8.
In the current season with the IronPigs, Clemens has been maintaining a solid .270 batting average along with three home runs and an impressive .841 OPS over 16 games, indicating his readiness to contribute to the Phillies during Harper’s absence.