Phillies: A look back at five pre-season projections

PHILADELPHIA, PA - AUGUST 27: The Phillie Phanatic performs in the seventh inning during a game between the Chicago Cubs and the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on August 27, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Phillies won 6-3. (Photo by Hunter Martin/Getty Images) /

4 of 6

PHILADELPHIA, PA – AUGUST 25: Tommy Joseph /

Can Tommy Joseph Hold Down First Base?

Tommy Joseph’s status as first base was a big question mark to open the season and I was just hoping this one to be true.

Joseph has not been terrible but he has definitely not solidified himself as the first baseman of the future. Joseph is currently hitting .241 with 19 home runs and 63 RBIs and should be able to eclipse the 20 home run/75 RBI mark this season.

However, with the emergence of Rhys Hoskins and his prolific power, Joseph looks as he’ll be heading for the bench once the outfield situation plays itself out.

As I stated in the original piece:

"“2017 will be a big year for Joseph. If he remains healthy and can keep pace with last season, Joseph could solidify himself as Philadelphia’s first baseman of the future.”"

Although Joseph’s 2017 campaign has been decent, it is a far cry from the big year I expected to materialize and to see him with any less than 25 home runs after last year’s pace is a slight disappointment.

Home/Phillies News