Bryce Harper exits game after being hit in elbow; X-rays negative

PHILADELPHIA — Phillies superstar Bryce Harper exited Tuesday night’s game in the first inning after being hit by a pitch in the elbow.

Taking his first at-bat in his team’s series opener against Atlanta, the left-handed-hitting Harper took a 95 mph fastball from Braves starter Spencer Strider to the right elbow. The Phillies announced that Harper suffered a contusion; X-rays on the elbow were negative.

Harper, sporting long red sleeves, did not appear to be wearing a pad or a guard on his elbow. He underwent Tommy John surgery on the same elbow following the 2022 season. After being hit, Harper walked toward Philadelphia’s dugout and crouched down in pain as he was met by a trainer and…