Nationals OF Bryce Harper sore, but avoids disabled list for now

Bryce Harper has temporarily avoided a trip to the disabled list, although his ailing left hamstring sidelined the right fielder for Washington’s Friday home game against Pittsburgh. Nationals manager Matt Williams says Harper received medical treatment and was going to try to take a few practice swings. Williams said the team will wait to see how the two-time All-Star progresses before deciding when he can play again. Williams said, “He’s sore. We’re evaluating every day, and we’ll take the appropriate steps necessary to make sure that he’s 100 percent ready to go when he’s ready to go.” Harper slipped on damp grass in the sixth inning Thursday night against Tampa Bay and gingerly walked off the field. The 22-year-old is hitting .344 with 22 home runs and 53 RBIs. – AP