Phillies: 5 questions that remain unanswered this season
Is Carlos Santana worth it?
Signing Carlos Santana to a three-year $60 million deal came as a big surprise to many, but the Phillies saw hidden value in the veteran first baseman. Fast-forward to August and it’s been a mixed bag from the 32-year-old with a batting average below .220, and some are questioning the signing.
Philadelphia owes Santana more than $41 million over the next two seasons plus a club option for 2021 that comes with a $500,000 buyout.
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Is Santana really worth that? He’s hitting .219 with 17 home runs, 64 RBI, and 87 walks. The walks an on-base percentage are what drew the Phillies to Santana but even those haven’t come as a great benefit.
Since July 1 he’s walked 25 times and struck out 23 while hitting .210 with three home runs.
It’s likely impossible the Phillies find a team willing to take two guaranteed years of Santana, even if the Phillies fork over most of the salary.
If Santana blocks Rhys Hoskins from playing first base, it could prevent the Phillies from upgrading their offense by adding Bryce Harper or another outfield bat.