Harper gets 1st hit after 0 for 9 start in spring training

CLEARWATER, Fla. (AP) — Bryce Harper finally got his first spring training hit with the Philadelphia Phillies after an 0 for 9 start.

The slugger lined a 97-mph fastball to center on a 2-1 pitch from Detroit Tigers right-hander Spencer Turnbull in the fourth inning of Wednesday’s game.

It was Harper’s 16th plate appearance over six exhibition games. He has struck out six times and drawn four walks. Turnbull struck Harper out swinging in the first.

Harper agreed to a $330 million, 13-year contract in late February, almost two weeks after spring training began. He missed one game after getting hit by a pitch in the ankle on Friday.

Phillies infielder Rhys Hoskins didn’t play against the Tigers because of mild left shoulder soreness.

Philadelphia opens the regular season on March 28 at home against the NL East champion Atlanta Braves.