Four Storylines From Phillies Weekend Sweep of the Braves

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Apr 23, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies second baseman Cesar Hernandez (16) hits a two RBI home run during the eighth inning against the Atlanta Braves at Citizens Bank Park. The Phillies won 5-2. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

Don’t Underestimate Cesar Hernandez

Cesar Hernandez has been Philadelphia’s best everyday player in the lineup this season, especially since Howie Kendrick went on the disabled list. Hernandez leads the team in batting average (.338), hits (27), runs (18), stolen bases (3), and fWAR (1.2).

Hernandez also leads the team in a surprising category: home runs. That’s right. The 5’10, 160 pound second baseman leads the Phillies with four home runs in 2017. Maikel Franco has three and several other Phils have two.

More from That Balls Outta Here

Hernandez’s fourth home run of the season started off three straight home runs that sealed the win Sunday for the Phils.

Considering Hernandez hit just six home runs in all of 2016, the fact that he has four through 18 games this season is definitely a surprise. Manager Pete Mackanin said he is definitely surprised with Hernandez’s power this season.

“Who would have thought Cesar would hit four home runs the whole year?” Mackanin told Corey Seidman of CSN Philly.

While it’s hard to imagine Hernandez keeping up this torrid pace at the plate, it’s not hard to imagine Hernandez finishing the season with a double-digit home run total. Combined with his on-base ability, that gives Hernandez even more value.

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