Nick Castellanos is a perfect example of the Philadelphia Phillies‘ flawed roster.
Both Castellanos and Kyle Schwarber should not be anywhere near the outfield. They are designated hitters masquerading as outfielders, forced into action on the grass due to Bryce Harper’s injury. However, another injury, this time to Rhys Hoskins, may have opened a path to improve the Phillies’ defense.
Philadelphia Phillies may have place for Nick Castellanos
As Hoskins is likely lost for the season due to a torn ACL, the Phillies need an answer at first. Darick Hall is the leading candidate to take over, but he is another left handed bat in a lefty tilted lineup. Alec Bohm has seen some action at first in the majors but is needed at the hot corner. Enter Castellanos, who has volunteered to take grounders at first in an effort to learn the position and help the Phillies move forward.
The Phillies certainly need Castellanos in the lineup. Although he disappointed in his first season in Philadelphia, he is still a noted power threat, having four seasons with at least 20 homers. A shift to first may help as he would no longer have to focus on his defense. As Castellanos cost the Phillies eight runs in right last season, a potential move could help the team overall.
Hoskins is going to be impossible to replace. Even if Castellanos takes over at first, his absence leaves a giant hole in the lineup. However, even if it is just a few times a week, moving Castellanos to first will help the defense and possibly minimize that impact. It certainly does not hurt to give him a chance at a new position.
The Philadelphia Phillies need to find a new answer at first base. Nick Castellanos could be a part of the solution.
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