By Michael Lipinski, Sports Talk Philly Editor 
Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Bryce Harper was selected as the National League’s starting designated hitter for the 2022 MLB All-Star Game, the league announced on Friday. Harper was selected as a starter by fan vote.
Your first ever fan-elected designated hitter in the NL.
All-Star Bryce Harper. pic.twitter.com/6OCxjg81JJ
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) July 8, 2022
This marks Harper’s first All-Star selection in a Phillies uniform and his seventh overall. Harper is currently recovering from thumb surgery and will not play in the game.
Harper was hitting .318 with 15 home runs, 48 RBIs, 21 doubles, and nine stolen bases before being injured. The reigning NL MVP told the media he expects to return this season. The belief is he will be out until mid-August.
The MLB All-Star Game takes place on Tuesday, July 19, from Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles.
