Segura could return to lineup next week; news not so positive for Eflin

The Phillies could be adding a key weapon to the lineup as soon as next week. No, a timetable for the return of reigning National League MVP Bryce Harper has not yet been set. But both the team's offense and up-the-middle defense could be bolstered with the return of infielder Jean Segura, who started taking swings and participating in the club's pregame warmups last week. A return to the Phils' lineup is projected as early as Aug. 4, a day after his time on the 60-day disabled list elapses.

Out with a fractured index finger on his throwing hand since May 31, the second baseman could see minor league action this week, barring any setbacks.

“I just can’t wait to come back and contribute with the boys,” Segura told reporters Saturday, adding that he hoped to begin the rehab assignment this week.

As far as the starting pitching rotation goes, a week ago, Zach Eflin had an MRI on the sore right knee that has kept him out since June 26. While the results showed no structural damage, there is lingering concern over soreness stemming from his patellofemoral (behind kneecap). No return date is set and there are murmurs of the Phillies pursuing another rotation arm prior to the Aug. 2 trade deadline, an indication the team fears Eflin could be sidelined at length. The Phillies came out of the All-Star break with unproven LHP Bailey Falter taking Eflin's spotin the rotation.

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Harper, who had surgery June 29 to repair a fractured left thumb, has vowed to play again this season. Neither he nor the team has been able to set any kind of timetable, although it's been reported Harper believes he can return in mid-August.

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RHP Zack Wheelerdidn’t make the All-Star team, but he continued his run of All-Star caliber pitching in his first start after the break. Wheeler had a 2.07 ERA with just 18 walks and 97 strikeouts in 87 innings in his last 14 starts before the break, and he allowed just one run on three hits in seven innings Saturday against the Cubs.

USA Today's John Perrotto contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Segura could return to Phillies lineup soon; news not so good for Eflin