Former slugger with the Phillies Connected to Free Agency Division Competitors.
After being linked to a division rival in free agency, one of the Philadelphia Phillies’ former sluggers could end up playing for that team. After Bryce Harper went to first base in 2023 and performed admirably, the writing was on the wall for the Philadelphia Phillies to release Rhys Hoskins at the end of the season.
Hoskins was set to become a free agent in 2024, but a ruptured ACL in spring training kept him from playing in a single game last season. His market worth suffered as a result. Because of this, there was speculation that the Phillies could be able to re-sign him to a team-friendly contract.
However, Dave Dombrowski announced that Harper will be the Phillies’ starting first baseman going forward. Hoskins, he added, understood the decision and accepted it well. So, with their former slugger slated to wear a different uniform next season, Andy McCullough of The Athletic forecasts that Hoskins will join the division foe Washington Nationals.
“If Hoskins can demonstrate good health and renewed success in 2024, the Nationals are well-positioned to offer him a pillow contract to help him re-enter the market.” “The team could also benefit from a veteran to provide ballast to its young lineup,” he writes.
It is beneficial to both parties. Hoskins requires playing time to boost his worth in the future, and the Nationals would like to add additional talent to their squad. Across six MLB seasons, he owns a career slash line of.242/.353/.492. He has 405 RBI and 148 home homers.
With Hoskins slated to be released, the Phillies may have to watch their second-longest tenured player suit up for their division rivals in Washington.