Harper intends to play for Team USA at WBC

Another MVP appears bound for Team USA, as Phillies superstar outfielder Bryce Harper intends to play for the United States in the 2023 World Baseball Classic.

Harper, the reigning National League MVP, is the latest All-Star to commit to Team USA, joining Mike Trout, Nolan Arenado, Paul Goldschmidt, J.T. Realmuto and Trevor Story.

This would mark the first time Harper has participated in the WBC. However, his health is still up in the air. While Harper is expected to return from his left thumb fracture before the end of the 2022 season, there are lingering questions about his right elbow.

Before fracturing his thumb when he was hit by a pitch from Padres left-hander Blake Snell on June 25, the 29-year-old was relegated to designated hitter duty due to a torn UCL in his throwing elbow. The injury often leads to Tommy John surgery.