After years of being poised to finally break out amidst the Philadelphia Phillies' middle infield, second baseman Bryson Stott could finally meet or even exceed his "breakout candidate" status this season. After hitting .280 with a .747 OPS in his sophomore season, Stott hasn't been able to replicate that success.
Heading into 2025, Stott focused on improving his plate discipline and he delivered. His chase rate dipped below 30 percent for the first time since his debut season in 2022, dropping to 23.3 percent while seeing a career-high number of pitches per plate appearance. However, he hit .257 with a .719 OPS.
The 28-year-old has been a defensive stalwart at second base, but offensively he's been hot and cold, despite having some moments of greatness in a Phillies uniform (typically, in October). If the changes he made in 2025 continue, then Stott could be in for a big 2026.
Phillies’ Bryson Stott could finally have his breakout season in 2026 thanks to a simple tweak
As MLB.com's Todd Zolecki notes, Stott tweaked his stance during the 2025 season. He dropped hand placement, which turned out to be crucial to his success. Before making the change, Stott hit .234 with a .636 OPS. After the change, he hit .294 with an .855 OPS in the second half.
When at his peak, especially at the top of the Phillies lineup, or even when he's batting toward the bottom, Stott always seems to want to attack the first pitch. It's proven that Stott hits well when swinging at the first pitch, batting .366. A key to Stott's success in 2026 will be to refine selective aggressiveness when analyzing the first pitch of the at-bat.
Last season, when being patient and taking the first pitch, he had a .948 OPS, and who knows how often Stott will reach base in 2026. Major League Baseball is introducing the ABS challenge system this season. Stott has been shown, statistically, to be one of the Phillies' starters who could benefit most from it.
Each year in the league brings more experience and growth, and 2025 showed that for him at the plate. Going forward, wherever Stott bats, if he continues to be patient success will hopefully come in due time. However, 2026 is shaping up to be a make-or-break year for Stott, with the team's No. 2 MLB Pipeline prospect Aidan Miller waiting in the wings.
Miller's offensive prowess is what led him to his fast-track promotion through the minors, and he has the defensive flexibility to get comfortable in Triple-A at second base. His primary position, shortstop, will be occupied by Trea Turner for the foreseeable future, and for now, the team will clearly give preference to the one Gold Glove finalist and he could have the best season of his career.