Wire Taps: What should we expect from Bryce Harper’s return to Nationals?; Harper sits with flu; Victor Robles as 2018 starter?

The Nationals are at 95 wins, so to get to 100, they need to go 5-1 in their next six games, which is difficult, but certainly not impossible given the state of the Phillies and the Pirates.

If they can go 4-2, they can record the most wins in a single season by the team, and if they go 3-3, they tie the 2012 record. If they go 0-6, we panic.

Here’s what’s shaking in Philly.

If Bryce is back, he's still not really *back*
Bryce Harper probably can't find his swing in a week's worth of at-bats. Also, Jayson Werth isn't hitting. Get it together, guys. Get it. Together.

Bryce Harper's return from knee injury delayed by day due to flu
Harper woke up with flu-like symptoms on Monday, but his knee felt fine. Harper could return today (then again, he could still feel sick and not come back until tomorrow). Either way, the end is in sight.

The Nationals have to consider Victor Robles for a 2018 starting job
Victor Robles is still officially a prospect, but with Jayson Werth gone, the Nats should consider him a part of their Opening Day roster.

A.J. Cole somehow does it again, Nats win again without Bryce Harper
A.J. Cole got jussssttttttt enough run support to get another win against the Phillies.

Harper remains out of lineup with flu-like symptoms
Harper got some fluids, enjoyed some chicken soup, a nice nap, and "The Sandlot."

Dusty talks anthem protests: "The bottom line is there's a problem"
Dusty Baker is one of baseball's only two African American managers, in addition to having served as a Marine Corps reservist. With the Athletics' Bruce Maxwell being the first MLB player to protest during the national anthem, Baker (as always) had sage words on the situation.

Today’s Game: Nationals vs Phillies — 7:05 PM
Probable Pitchers: Gio Gonzalez vs Jake Thompson