Rizzo will move Harper from Hagerstown, just not yet

By Byron Kerr

Nationals

June 01, 2011, 8:48am

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Although he has slowed down a bit at the plate recently (.222 in his last 10 games, but 4-for-6 in his last two games) after a scorching few weeks, No. 1 prospect Bryce Harper continues to progress very well for the low Single-A Hagerstown Suns. Harper is batting .331 through 50 games with 14 doubles, 11 homers and 36 RBIs. Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo is happy with what he sees from Harper and his situation in Hagerstown. "His development is obviously a focal point for us," Rizzo said Wednesday. "He is having a terrific season there. I like the setup he has got (in Hagerstown). He is very comfortable in those surroundings. He has a got a great staff around him." Rizzo will not give an exact date or destination, but did say he sees Harper promoted some time this season. Rizzo previously said that Harper will not play in D.C. this season or be a September call-up. "I don't see him staying (in Hagerstown) for the entire season," Rizzo said. "He will be moved at some time. We are not at the point where he is going to be moved yet."