Jean Segura hasn't suited up for the Philadelphia Phillies in nearly two months. However, according to the shortstop, he could be returning to the active roster very soon.
Segura hopes to start a rehabilitation assignment next week, and believes he can return to the game day field as early as August 4. Phillies beat writer Todd Zolecki tweeted Jean Segura's optimistic injury update Friday afternoon.
Jean Segura hopes to begin a rehab assignment next week. Thinks he could rejoin #Phillies following PIT and ATL road trip. He has been hitting and throwing recently without issue.
— Todd Zolecki (@ToddZolecki) July 22, 2022
Jean Segura was placed on the IL list after he broke his right index finger on May 31 and had subsequent surgery on June 3. According to MLB.com, the Phillies expected him to be out until at least August 12. However, he's determined to come back sooner than the original 10-to-12-week timeline.
Article Continues Below“I’m not letting this thing go 10 to 12 weeks,” he said earlier this month (per MLB.com). “I don’t think that’s going to happen. As soon as I feel I can grip the bat and take a couple of swings …”
Having Jean Segura back would be huge for the Phils for a couple of reasons. One, he's arguably the most consistent offensive performer for the Phillies. Two, his absence at shortstop left a gaping hole in the defense. The team was not prepared to properly fill this vacancy and was forced to move multiple pieces around to make things work.
Not to mention, the Phillies are also missing their top player, Bryce Harper. The outfielder, who also doubles as an offensive powerhouse, hasn't played for the Phils since late June. He broke his thumb after being hit by a pitch by San Diego Padres pitcher Blake Snell. There is no official timeline for Harper's recovery and return. However, the team is optimistic that he'll be back for the end of the regular season.