Should the Philadelphia Phillies Re-Sign Their Injured Slugger?

When Bryce Harper moved to first base this season, it was much needed for a team who had one of the worst outfield defenses in the league. It allowed manager Rob Thomson to move Kyle Schwarber to designated hitter and put more speed in the outfield.

But Harper’s successful position change could mean the end of an era for Rhys Hoskins.

If their superstar is unable to return to right field following Tommy John surgery, Hoskins is going to have a difficult time working his way into the Philadelphia Phillies lineup once his ACL is fully healed.

Hoskins will be a free agent following the season. His contract demands could ultimately be too high despite being one of the Phillies’ most popular players.

The injured slugger has been around the team, in the clubhouse and doing light jogging on the field. His presence has certainly helped as Philadelphia looks to make the postseason for the second consecutive season.

If Harper can return to right and Nick Castellanos can move to left, then Schwarber can continue to be the designated hitter with Hoskins playing first base.

If Harper stays at first, Hoskins could be slotted at DH.

Do you want to pay a designated hitter $150 million or more?

It’s a tricky situation in so many ways. Hoskins was a huge reason why the Phillies advanced to the playoffs last season for the first time since 2011 and then came within two games of a World Series title.

Hoskins hit .246 with 30 home runs and 79 RBI. He added six homers and 12 RBI in 17 postseason games.

On the flip side, he made 12 errors in the regular season and some costly miscues and mental mistakes in the playoffs.

Overall, Hoskins was a huge asset. He would remain a huge asset in 2024 and beyond.

Like most decisions in life, this will come down to money.

There might not be enough to re-sign Hoskins and starting pitcher Aaron Nola.

If Nola opts to go elsewhere, the chances of retaining Hoskins will increase.

Philadelphia has proven this season, they can win without their injured first baseman.

But they’d be so much better with him.

If the front office of John Middleton and Dave Dombrowski can work out the financial details, they should do everything they can to bring Hoskins back.

It will only strengthen this roster which is already solid.

Re-signing Hoskins will make them even better moving forward.