Phillies: Potential DH options if new rules are enacted

PHILADELPHIA, PA - SEPTEMBER 14: Rhys Hoskins #17 of the Philadelphia Phillies reacts after hitting a two run home run in the bottom of the sixth inning against the Miami Marlins at Citizens Bank Park on September 14, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Phillies defeated the Marlins 14-2. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /

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PHILADELPHIA, PA – AUGUST 18: Rhys Hoskins #17 of the Philadelphia Phillies gestures after he hit a double in the sixth inning during a game against the New York Mets at Citizens Bank Park on August 18, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Mets defeated the Phillies 3-1. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images) /

Rhys Hoskins

When you think of a designated hitter you think of the big sluggers who intimidate opposing pitchers every time they go to the plate. That’s what Rhys Hoskins has become in less than two seasons with the Phillies.

Hoskins just looks and feels like that prototypical designated hitter standing at 6’4 who is projected to hit 41 home runs over 162 games.

The Phillies tried Hoskins in left field and it clearly didn’t work for either party. Hoskins is, unfortunately, a one-trick-pony when it comes to defense. In left field Hoskins posted a -24 defensive runs saved, the fourth-worst in baseball, according to FanGraphs.

Hoskins’ metrics at first base in 2017 were substantially better with an 18 total fielding runs above average (Rtot/yr), though granted in limited time.

Making Hoskins the full-time designated hitter would have made more sense if Carlos Santana was still in town. Hoskins is still young and athletic enough to play first and the Phillies aren’t in a hurry to move him around again.

Unless they were to acquire a Gold Glove-caliber first baseman Hoskins isn’t going anywhere. He’s a valuable asset they need to keep happy while he earns the league minimum as a potential All-Star, Home Run Derby superstar, and darkhorse MVP candidate.

It shouldn’t be an idea to completely thrown away, but for now Hoskins, as the current centerpiece of the franchise next to Aaron Nola, will be the first baseman going forward for (hopefully) the next decade in Philadelphia.