Phillies Star Slugger Floated As Possible Offseason Free Agent Target For Red Sox

Should Boston actually pursue the former Phillies star slugger this offseason?

The Boston Red Sox likely will be in the market for a right-handed bat in the middle of the lineup.

There's a real possibility that the Red Sox lose both outfielder Adam Duvall and designated hitter Justin Turner in free agency which would lead to a real need for a right-handed hitter. There's always a chance that Turner or Duvall ultimately return, but at this point, it may be unlikely. If they don't there are some intriguing right-handed hitters available on the free agent market. 

MassLive.com's Christopher Smith compiled a list of possible offseason targets for the Red Sox and one name that stood out is Philadelphia Phillies slugger Rhys Hoskins.

"Hoskins didn’t play for the Phillies in 2023 after tearing his ACL during spring training," Smith said. "He’ll be 31 in March and has a career .845 OPS. He has blasted 27 or more home runs in every one of his four full seasons in the majors. Like (Lourdes Gurriel Jr.), he hasn’t played anywhere in the outfield except for left field as a major leaguer. But he also could be used at first base and (designated hitter)."

Hoskins missed the 2023 season but was dependable before that. He has hit at least 27 home runs in the last four full seasons -- excluding the 2020 shortened campaign -- and also drove in at least 71 runs in each of those seasons. He has seen time at first base and left field throughout his Major League Baseball career along with designated hitter. If the Red Sox lose Turner in free agency, Hoskins could be the type of player on a cheaper deal with high-upside that would make sense to target. 

Boston's offense already was good in 2023, but it wouldn't hurt to add a little more pop in the middle of the lineup.

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