Philadelphia Phillies: Cesar Hernandez states his case

Cesar Hernandez hadn’t solidified his slot as the Philadelphia Phillies second base through 2015. But, his offensive and defensive efforts this season might be changing opinions.

Cesar Hernandez is working through his first full season as the Philadelphia Phillies starting second baseman. Always a competent defender, since making his major league debut in May 2013, he served as Chase Utley‘s backup until number 26 was dealt to the Los Angeles Dodgers last season. While still prone to baserunning issues, Hernandez is performing well in the leadoff spot this season, ranking fifth among all National League second basemen in on base percentage (.358) and fourth in steals (13). He also ranks first among all major league players in triples (9). Heading toward 2017, the 26-year-old appears to be stating his case to become J.P. Crawford‘s double play partner next season.

Crawford (21) is the Phillies’ top prospect and ranks third overall among all minor league players in the game. While 40-man roster issues might influence Philadelphia’s decision to recall him from Triple-A in September, there’s little doubt that the 2013 first round draft pick (sixteenth overall) will compete for the starting shortstop job next season.

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Past conjecture, about the Phillies current shortstop, Freddy Galvis, switching to second base is evolving. Hernandez’ efforts have understandably impacted baseball thinking in this instance. And, Galvis, who turns 27 in November, is the type of player and person who would help Crawford’s big league transition, while also serving in a valuable utility role.

Veteran utility man Andres Blanco‘s left index finger fracture in late July forced him onto the disabled list. As a result, Lehigh Valley IronPigs infielder Taylor Featherston was promoted to Philadelphia. Reading Fightin Phils All-Star second baseman Jesmuel Valentin was promoted to Triple-A and Clearwater Threshers second baseman Scott Kingery was promoted to Double-A.

Featherston, who turns 27 in October, was obtained from the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in a trade last February. He’s displayed some power in his minor league career and is a decent fielder. However, Featherston doesn’t have prospect status, as evidenced by the Angels accepting a player to be named later, or cash, in that off-season transaction.

Valentin was obtained from the Los Angeles Dodgers, along with pitcher Victor Arano (who’s currently serving as a reliever in Reading), for Roberto Hernandez in the summer of 2014. The 22-year-old second baseman has progressed steadily since being obtained. But, he isn’t currently slotted as a top Phillies’ prospect.

Kingery was selected by the Phillies in the second round of the 2015 amateur draft. He’s currently ranked fourteenth on Philadelphia’s Top 30 prospect list. Due to his collegiate seasoning and high-draft selection position, the 22-year-old bears watching. In lieu of dramatic progress next season, Kingery appears to be at least two seasons away from potentially challenging Hernandez for his job.

It’s always possible that general manager Matt Klentak could acquire a major-league ready infielder in the off-season through a trade, or free agency.

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If that doesn’t happen, Hernandez appears to be performing at the right time in the Philadelphia Phillies ongoing rebuild. Whether he remains part of the team’s renewing core depends upon future production and sharpening his in-game focus.