That Balls Outta Here
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Phillies Roster Push to Contention

By Mike Azzalina

Mar 13, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Philadelphia Phillies shortstop J.P. Crawford (77) against the New York Yankees at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 13, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Philadelphia Phillies shortstop J.P. Crawford (77) against the New York Yankees at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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May 19, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Toronto Blue Jays outfielder  Bautista (19) in the dugout in the eleventh inning against the Minnesota Twins at Target Field. The Toronto Blue Jays beat the Minnesota Twins 3-2 in 11 innings. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports /

LINEUP

Herrera, CF- Interestingly enough, I do not know how long ‘El Torito’ will be around with us.  I love him, but the Phillies have a bulk of CF talent in the minors with Roman Quinn and Carlos Tocci. But for the next couple of years, I expect Herrera to be bat-flipping at the top of the order.

Crawford, SS- He and Herrera give the Phillies plenty of scoring opportunities atop the order.

Franco, 3rd Base- Having Bautista behind him helps to settle Franco back in after what is likely going to continue being a difficult 2016 season.

Bautista, RF- Gives the Phillies another year to figure out what they have in Dylan Cozens at AAA.

Joseph, 1st Base- One more season with Joseph to find out if Rhys Hoskins can hit at the next level, or if Joseph himself may be for real.

Williams, LF- He is going to have to cut down on the strikeouts, and gain a bit more maturity, but he will be ready soon.

Prado, 2nd Base- Kingery is quickly rising through the system, so having Prado for one season is a perfect placeholder.

Rupp, Catcher- Rupp has emerged offensively, but he needs to improve his pitch calling.  He seems as though he is aware of that though.  Also, it would not surprise me if they give Knapp a shot to compete for the starting job at spring training as well. And Jorge Alfaro is on both of their heels.

Next: POTENTIAL PHILLIES 2017 BENCH

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