4 more intriguing Phillies spring training storylines to watch as games begin

How Harper adapts to being the Phillies' full-time first baseman

Following Rhys Hoskins' injury a year ago, the Phillies were in a bind at the position. Hall's injury and struggles also put the club in a tough spot in finding a suitable replacement. Alec Bohm was not a long-term option, considering he was needed at third base.

After undergoing Tommy John surgery for an injury he sustained playing in the outfield, Bryce Harper emerged as an option to play at first base. He played there gradually last season before becoming the everyday player at the position later in the year.

The decision to make Harper the Phillies' full-time first baseman during the offseason led to Hoskins departing the club in free agency. The former right fielder wants to remain playing first base for the long term as well.

Harper answered questions on the matter not long after he arrived in Clearwater for the first full-squad workout.

"I don't think I'll move out to right. I don't. But never say never," Harper said.

He also went into detail about the conversation Dombrowski and he had during the offseason about him playing at first base full-time for the organization.

"Me and Dombo, we sat down and he said this would be great for our organization," Harper said. "I wanted them to know that I was on board with anything they wanted to do. I said, 'If you want me in right field, I'll play right. If you want me at first, I'll play first base.' I think collectively, they said, 'First base is where we want you.' I said, 'OK, I'll do everything I can to be there and that's what I want to do.'"

Philadelphia is in a much different position than a year ago when Hoskins suffered a torn ACL in his left knee during a spring training game shortly before the start of the regular season. Now, Harper represents the Phillies' present and future at the position.