Nationals' Bryce Harper: Returns to lineup Friday

Harper (thumb) is in the lineup Friday against the Marlins, radio play-by-play announcer Charlie Slowes reports.

Analysis:

Harper had sat out the previous four games with a thumb injury and, with the Nationals already clinching the NL East title, it wasn't a given that he'd return before the end of the regular season. He's apparently recovered enough though, as he'll slot back into the starting lineup to open up the final series of the year, manning his usual responsibilities in right field and batting third against Miami starter Andrew Cashner.