The Philadelphia Phillies entered the offseason prioritizing continuity, successfully retaining cornerstone players Kyle Schwarber and J.T. Realmuto. While those moves solidified the core, another familiar name could potentially make a return if Bryce Harper has his way.
According to Devan Kaney of SportsRadio 94WIP Philadelphia, Harper has been urging the front office to explore a reunion with free-agent slugger Rhys Hoskins. Sources indicate Harper believes the team needs more right-handed power and an added emotional spark in the clubhouse. While Hoskins is reportedly open to returning, president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski has not shown the same enthusiasm for the idea.
Hoskins, originally selected by the Phillies in the fifth round of the 2014 MLB Draft, spent the first six seasons of his career in Philadelphia. He burst onto the scene in 2017, finishing fourth in National League Rookie of the Year voting, and went on to produce multiple 30-home run campaigns. However, a torn ACL wiped out his entire 2023 season and ultimately ended his tenure with the club.
Throughout his time in Philadelphia, Hoskins consistently performed above league average at the plate. Even his lowest offensive output a 112 wRC+ in 2019 still included 29 home runs. After recovering from knee surgery, the Phillies opted not to pursue him in free agency, and he signed with the Milwaukee Brewers instead.
His first season back from injury was uneven. In 2024 with Milwaukee, Hoskins hit .214/.303/.419 with 26 home runs across 131 games, though he struck out at a career-high 28.8% rate. He appeared to regain form the following season, posting an impressive .849 OPS through May and serving as a key contributor in the Brewers’ lineup. However, struggles in June were followed by a thumb injury in early July that once again disrupted his momentum.
During his absence, Milwaukee acquired first baseman Andrew Vaughn from the Chicago White Sox. Vaughn thrived after the trade, eventually pushing Hoskins into a bench role upon his return. Hoskins was ultimately left off the Brewers’ postseason roster.
At first glance, Philadelphia didn’t appear to have a clear role available for another first baseman or designated hitter after re-signing Schwarber. But the landscape changed when the team released Nick Castellanos, absorbing the remaining $20 million on his contract. Castellanos has since signed with the San Diego Padres.
His departure creates at least a narrow path for a right-handed bat off the bench a role Hoskins could fill if Dombrowski reconsiders. Historically, Hoskins has punished left-handed pitching, compiling a strong .882 OPS in over 1,000 career plate appearances against southpaws. While he wouldn’t displace Harper or Schwarber, he could provide valuable matchup flexibility.
There’s also the possibility of defensive shuffling. If the Phillies were willing to deploy Schwarber in the outfield at times, Hoskins would fit more naturally at DH. Brandon Marsh is projected to handle left field against right-handed pitching, while rookie Justin Crawford is expected to take over as the everyday center fielder. However, Marsh has struggled mightily against left-handers, posting just a .581 career OPS in those matchups — making him a likely platoon candidate.
