Harper returns to Nats' lineup after 2-game absence

The Washington Nationals' lineup is getting a big boost.

Outfielder Bryce Harper will return to action Friday following a two-game absence due to a bruised knee. He'll hit third against the Cincinnati Reds and starting pitcher Brandon Finnegan.

Harper suffered the injury during Monday's game against the Philadelphia Phillies when he was hit in the knee by a Jeremy Hellickson fastball. He initially remained in the game but was replaced defensively to start the next inning.

After a searing-hot start to 2016, the reigning NL MVP had a rough month of May, slashing just .200/.422/.363 with four home runs, though he did walk 31 times. The Nationals are hoping the recovery from the bruised knee and the end of May will spark Harper, who would love to repeat his .370/.452/.691 line from last June.

While the Nationals missed Harper's presence on the field, they did win both games he missed to move three games ahead of the New York Mets in the NL East.