Phillies: Five prospects who had breakout seasons in 2018
By Josh Starr
Austin Listi, 1B/OF, Clearwater/Reading
Austin Listi came into the organization with somewhat low expectations. He was a late round pick, being selected by the Phillies in the 17th round in the 2017 draft. However, this year was his coming out party.
Listi spent the first half of the season in Clearwater hitting .344 with nine home runs and 45 RBI in 58 games.
After a call-up on June 18, Listi played the remaining 65 games of his season in Reading. There, he hit .281 with another nine home runs and 39 RBI.
Listi showed tremendous plate discipline throughout the year. He walked 65 times and struck out just 94 times in 123 games.
Although his average dropped after his call-up, Listi still put together a great year. Combined, Listi slashed .312/.412/.502 with 25 doubles, 18 home runs and 84 RBI.
The Phillies have a crowded pool of outfielders in their system, so he may not make it to the big club, but he will certainly move up in the organization next year. He could be a potential trade piece next summer with the Phillies expectations of competing for a division title once again.
The Phillies awarded Listi and Parkinson players as their Minor League players of the year, but they weren’t the only prospects who shined this season.