Philadelphia Phillies’ first baseman Rhys Hoskins, who is battling a torn ACL in his left knee, faces an uphill battle in making it onto the postseason roster. Despite showing promising signs of progress, including hitting home runs in batting practice and increasing his daily swings to about 75 or 80, Hoskins remains unlikely to be cleared ahead of the World Series, if at all. With the World Series set to begin on October 27th, the Phillies would need to secure a wild-card spot for Hoskins to have any chance of returning this season. Despite this setback, Hoskins remains one of the team’s longest-tenured players and a valuable presence both on and off the field.
Recovering Power
Manager Rob Thomson acknowledges Hoskins’ efforts to regain his power during his recovery. Thomson notes that it often takes time for players to regain their strength after suffering a significant injury. Despite the challenges, Thomson reveals that Hoskins has been hitting an impressive number of home runs in practice, with a reported seven or eight balls leaving the ballpark during recent sessions. This demonstrates Hoskins’ determination to return to top form, but his ultimate fate still hangs in the balance.
Hoskins’ importance to the team cannot be understated. His three-run homer in Game 3 of the NL Division Series against Atlanta is forever etched in Philly sports lore. The iconic moment has even been immortalized on a mural in Citizens Bank Park, a testament to the impact he has had on the team. Despite his injury, Hoskins has maintained a positive attitude throughout the season, providing support and guidance to his teammates. His leadership and extensive knowledge of the game have proven invaluable, and he has become a trusted sounding board for his fellow players.
Even if the Phillies secure a spot in the World Series and Hoskins is cleared to play, his return is not guaranteed. With Bryce Harper firmly established at first base, it is unlikely that Hoskins would reclaim his position. Instead, he would likely be relegated to the role of designated hitter, while defensively limited Kyle Schwarber takes over in left field. This situation creates additional complications for the team, as Hoskins’ absence has provided an opportunity for right-handed reliever Orion Kerkering to make his case for inclusion on the playoff roster. Kerkering, who was not initially on the 40-man roster, would be eligible to pitch in the NL wild-card series as a replacement for an injured player. This player would be Hoskins, who remains on the 60-day injured list. Thomson views Kerkering as a potential high-leverage reliever in the postseason, highlighting his impressive pitching performance and positive impact in his MLB debut against the New York Mets.
A Promising Prospect
With each passing game, Kerkering’s potential becomes more evident. The Phillies have been impressed with his composure and skill on the mound, particularly his devastating slider that has already proven effective against major league hitters. Thomson has shown confidence in Kerkering, opting to give him a few days off before pitching him again in upcoming games against Pittsburgh and the Mets. This opportunity allows the Phillies to assess Kerkering’s abilities in high-pressure situations and determine his readiness for the postseason. The team is optimistic about what Kerkering brings to the table and sees him as a valuable asset in their bullpen.
Rhys Hoskins’ road to recovery and potential return to the postseason remains uncertain. While he has shown signs of progress and determination in his rehabilitation, his chances of being cleared for the World Series are slim. Additionally, the emergence of Orion Kerkering as a reliable reliever further complicates the Phillies’ decision-making process. The team must carefully weigh their options and consider both long-term implications and immediate needs. Regardless of what lies ahead, Hoskins’ impact on the team and his enduring leadership qualities are undeniable.
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