Doctor recommends Harper to not throw for 6 weeks

Philadelphia Phillies superstar Bryce Harper won't be playing in the outfield longer than originally expected because of a small tear in his ulnar collateral ligament.

The doctor who gave Harper a PRP injection recommended the reigning NL MVP shouldn't throw for six weeks, Phillies manager Joe Girardi said Wednesday, according to Todd Zolecki of MLB.com.

Harper will have to start a throwing program before returning to the field, which could happen in late July at the earliest, Zolecki notes.

The Phillies were hoping the 29-year-old would be able to start throwing after four weeks when the injury was first discovered last Thursday.

Harper, who's played as a designated hitter for the majority of the season, is slashing .305/.361/.634 with nine homers and 27 RBIs over 34 games.