That Balls Outta Here
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Phillies: 3 Options to Play at Shortstop Next Season

By David Esser

DETROIT, MI - AUGUST 29: Francisco Lindor #12 of the Cleveland Indians warms up to bat against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on August 29, 2019 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MI - AUGUST 29: Francisco Lindor #12 of the Cleveland Indians warms up to bat against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on August 29, 2019 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images) /
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SEATTLE – JULY 20: Didi Gregorious #18 of the New York Yankees looks on during the game against the Seattle Mariners at Safeco Field on July 20, 2017 in Seattle, Washington. The Yankees defeated the Mariners 4-1. (Photo by Rob Leiter/MLB Photos via Getty Images)
SEATTLE – JULY 20: Didi Gregorious #18 of the New York Yankees looks on during the game against the Seattle Mariners at Safeco Field on July 20, 2017 in Seattle, Washington. The Yankees defeated the Mariners 4-1. (Photo by Rob Leiter/MLB Photos via Getty Images) /

An Old Friend: Didi Gregorious

Didi Gregorious’ first public comment after not receiving a qualifying offer from the Yankees? Congratulating his old manager (Joe Girardi) on being hired for the Phillies job.

Considering the fact that Gregorious and Girardi have had a strong relationship for years and Didi just happens to be the top SS in the free agent market, this screams “match made in heaven”. The Phillies will no doubt shoot the Holland native a call this offseason.

Despite missing the first half of the season due to elbow surgery, Gregorious managed to put up impressive enough numbers through the final 82 games. A career .264 hitter, Gregorious had a slight down year in terms of average as he hit just .238 in 2019. However, his ability to generate runs and hit for power remained a constant.

Posting a slugging percentage of .441 while hitting 16 home-runs and 14 doubles, Gregorious more than silenced any doubts about his hitting ability. Throw in the 61 RBIs he produced in just half a season, it’s obvious why his name is being talked about as a potential upgrade over Segura.

The big “question mark” surrounding Gregorious will simply be his price tag. The Yankees declined his $17.88 million dollar option following the season, which is why we’re even discussing him as a FA option in the first place. Despite having a solid enough year, Gregorious’ production last season was not similar enough to his 2017 and 2018 years to warrant a New York style payday.

With that understood, the way Didi values himself could be somewhat of a mystery. On one hand, he’s coming off a rough injury and a drop in statistical production and could appreciate an opportunity to play for a contender on a smaller deal. On the other hand, Gregorious has been one of the better shortstops in the league the last few seasons and may be looking to cash in on a lucrative long-term deal.

With the Phillies expected to shell out major cash in the pitching department this winter, a decision on Gregorious may come down to if there’s even enough money to go around for him.

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