Bryce Harper injury: Nationals OF cleared for strength training on knee

The “strengthening activities” are limited to walking and jogging for the time being, but the Nats will ramp up the activity soon so long as the swelling in Harper’s knee doesn’t flare back up. Head athletic trainer Lee Kuntz added that Harper is pain-free at the moment and is hopeful that he’ll continue to progress as the club steps up the rehab process:

“We are going to try to notch his activity and keep progressing... We are adding bricks every day. We are trying to improve upon what he did yesterday and not lose any ground.”

The Nats have yet to give any sort of timetable for Harper’s return to the club. Diagnosed with bursitis in his knee after colliding with the outfield wall at Dodger Stadium in mid-May, Harper has been on the disabled list since June 1.

The Nats have struggled in Harper’s absence, falling under .500 on the year with a 6-8 start to the month of June. The club now sits in second place in the NL East at 34-35.

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