Bryce Harper is returning to the Philadelphia lineup Tuesday night when the club plays north of the border against the Toronto Blue Jays . Harper, who has missed the last five games after being hit by a 95 mph fastball from Spencer Strider, is batting third and playing first base.

Harper remains cautiously optimistic about avoiding a stint on the injured list, but the pain and swelling in his elbow continue to raise concerns as the Phillies prepare for a crucial upcoming series against the Milwaukee Brewers at Citizens Bank Park.

Philadelphia Phillies slugger Bryce Harper has returned to the starting lineup against the Toronto Blue Jays after he missed the last five games with a bruised right elbow