Phillies Avoid Arbitration with Cesar Hernandez

Hernandez led the Phillies in batting average during the 2016 season

One of the Phillies bright young stars was able to avoid going to arbitration this week, and can now focus exclusively on spring training.

According to multiple reports, the Phillies and infielder Cesar Hernandez have agreed to a one-year deal worth $2.55 million. The 26-year-old will enter the 2017 season as the club’s everyday second baseman for the second-straight season.

Hernandez has been one of the bright spots for the Phillies despite their recent struggles, and is fighting to become a long-term piece of their future. Playing in 155 games last year, Hernandez hit .294 with a league-high 11 triples.

Many expect Hernandez to start the season as the Phillies lead-off hitter, a role he strived in last year. He hit .296 with four home runs last year at the top of the lineup, compared to .238 hitting second.

With second base prospect Scott Kingery working his way through the minor leagues, the Phillies were not inclined to give Hernandez a long-term contract.

Unlike Odubel Herrera, who signed a large extension over the offseason, the team is likely to trade Hernandez at some point. He was the conversation of trade rumors involving the Dodgers and Tigers, specifically in a deal for outfielder J.D. Martinez.

For now, Hernandez will enter 2017 looking to boost his average above .300 and become a more consistent baserunner. The 26-year-old has the speed to be an above-average threat on the base pads, but he was caught 13 times and stole just 17 bags.

Hitters will arrive in Clearwater, Florida in a couple of weeks, signaling the end of winter and the arrival of the warm spring.