Cameron Perkins struggles during first week of MLB career
Cameron Perkins has struggled early in his major league career with the Phillies
The Phillies looked to add a veteran presence and extra power in the outfield with the signing of Michael Saunders. Unfortunately, this turned out to be a huge mistake for the Phillies, as Saunders hit just .200 with six home runs and 51 strikeouts in 200 at-bats. His poor performance prompted the Phillies to designate him for assignment on June 20 and called up Cameron Perkins from Triple-A Lehigh Valley.
Perkins, a 26-year old outfielder, was drafted by the Mariners out of high school in 2009. Opting to play at Purdue University, the Phillies drafted him in the sixth round of the 2012 Amateur Draft.
At 6′ 5″ and 195 pounds, Perkins appeared to have the physical make-up to be a top prospect and a chance at a solid MLB career. His play in the Minor Leagues has been solid at nearly every level, yet unspectacular.
Perkins hit 11 home runs at Double-A Reading in 2015 and drove in 54 in 2013, both Minor League highs.
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This season at Triple-A, Cameron Perkins was batting .298 with 17 doubles, six home runs, and 21 RBI in 63 games. While his call-up may have been surprising considering the Phillies are going nowhere fast, it’s time to see if Perkins can be part of the future in the outfield.
After a pinch-hitting appearance in his first MLB game on June 20, Perkins went 2-for-6 the following night, although he was overmatched several times, striking out three times. The last seven games have been a considerable struggle for Perkins, going 1-for-20 with seven strikeouts. He has yet to get an extra-base hit and has walked only once.
On defense, Perkins has made all the plays in the field, albeit he’s only had 12 chances, so too early to gauge what kind of defensive player he’ll be.
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At 26-51, the Phillies are likely to give their young talent a chance to prove they are part of the future. Perkins should see a significant amount of playing time over the next 85 games, acclimating him to the game at the highest level.
Improvement is almost a certainty, but will Perkins be able to adjust once Major League pitchers figure out his weaknesses at the plate?
Keep on eye the develop of Cameron Perkins throughout the summer.