As Nationals' Offense Sputters, Bryce Harper Nears Return From Knee Injury

Given that the Nationals entered the month with a 15-game division lead, the biggest suspense surrounding Washington in September wasn't when they would clinch the NL East, but when Bryce Harper would return. Out since August 12 due to a left knee injury, the 24-year-old slugger took an important step forward on Sunday, taking his first on-field batting practice since the injury. As the team's offense has struggled without him, he's racing the clock to get back into the swing of things.

On a rainy night against the Giants at Nationals Park, Harper hyperextended his left knee and suffered a deep bone bruise when while attempting to beat out an infield grounder. He slipped while crossing first…