Phillies OF Harper not in lineup with ankle bruise

Bryce Harper was not in the Philadelphia Phillies' lineup Saturday against the Houston Astros, one day after taking a pitch off his right ankle. There continues to be no long-term concern with the injury that is officially diagnosed as a bruise after X-rays were negative Friday. Harper was hit near the foot by a 96-mph fastball from Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Trent Thornton.

The new Phillies outfielder, who signed a 13-year, $330 million contract earlier this spring, remains on target for Opening Day on March 28 at home against the Atlanta Braves. Harper continues to look for his first hit in a Phillies uniform. He is 0-for-5 with three walks in 10 plate appearances, scoring two runs.

"It's definitely important to get back out there and get the at-bats that I need," Harper told reporters Saturday. "But also being smart. I'd rather be healthy than get my at-bats." --Field Level Media