Bryce Harper makes debut in right for Phillies
Bryce Harper has every intention of being in the starting lineup for the Phillies on Opening Day. He moved closer to that goal on Tuesday, playing right field for the first time this spring. 

“It felt good to get back out there and get back into game mode, playing right field and hitting at the same time,” Harper said. “I felt good throwing the ball in. I got a little action with a ball to the wall down the line. Everything felt good today.” 

Harper battled back issues late last season and admitted earlier this spring that he felt pain when throwing a baseball. He took some time off this winter and revamped his workout routine before entering camp. 

“I like the way it’s going right now," Harper said. "I feel strong. I feel good." Harper is hitting .286 this spring with a pair of homers and a 1.161 OPS. He finished 0-for-1 with a walk in Tuesday's 14-5 loss to the Blue Jays in Clearwater, Fla.

Nola likely to start on Opening Day
Joe Girardi noted on Tuesday that Aaron Nola is on track to be the Phillies starter on Opening Day, though he has yet to inform the 27-year-old righty of the likely assignment. 

“I have not, but there’s a saying about tea leaves,” Girardi said. 

Nola was roughed up on Tuesday, surrendering six runs over 2 2/3 innings. He walked two and gave up seven hits. His ERA on the spring sits at 10.38. 

Didi left early 
Didi Gregorius was hit in the back of the helmet by a pitch in the second inning on Tuesday and eventually left the game. Though it didn't appear to be too serious, it's likely Gregorius will undergo concussion protocols and will be out of action on Wednesday. 

Realmuto on the mend
 J.T. Realmuto continues to inch closer to making his spring debut. He's taking batting practice and throwing, though it's unclear when he'll be inserted into the lineup. He is scheduled to undergo X-rays on his fractured right thumb on Thursday. 

"That will determine his next progression," Girardi said. 

Roster moves
The Phillies made some roster moves on Tuesday, optioning infielders Nick Maton and C.J. Chatham and left-hander Cristopher Sánchez to Minor League camp.
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Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PGordonPBR

BY PATRICK GORDON
Managing Editor
pgordon@philadelphiabaseballreview.com

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