The Philadelphia Phillies enter the postseason looking like a team that could contend for the World Series. Heading into Monday’s game, the Phillies have an 81-56 record and are seven games ahead in the National League East division.

Unfortunately, there is cause for concern as the regular season nears its final stretch.

Bryce Harper, the team’s superstar first baseman, is battling numerous persistent injury problems.

He has been battling a wrist injury since May, but the elbow injury only occurred recently.

Recently, Harper has spoken about the injuries. He doesn’t seem too concerned about them, but they are something to keep an eye on as they could affect his performance in the final stretch of the regular season and in the playoffs.

“That’s part of the game. That’s part of the process that you go through in a season. I just have to keep at it and understand that I rely heavily on my body.”

Why should this worry Philadelphia? It’s simple: To win the championship, they need Harper to be at his best.

While the Phillies have plenty of other talented hitters, they will only go as far as Harper can push them. He is truly the heart and soul of the team.

Since the All-Star break, Harper hasn’t had nearly as much power. He’s hit just five home runs during that time. Those numbers are a little concerning.

Hopefully he will be fully healthy again during the rest of the regular season. Philadelphia has 25 games left before the playoffs, which will give him some time to get back into shape.

If he cannot reach his full potential in the postseason games, the Phillies’ path to the championship will become much more difficult.

Still, injuries are something to keep a close eye on. Philadelphia needs its superstar at his best. Whether it’s because of injuries or something else, Harper hasn’t been playing at that level in recent weeks.

This is a cause for concern, but there is no need to panic yet. He still has time to get well.