MLB Awards: 2017 NL Rookie of the Year Ballot

2. Rhys Hoskins: Philadelphia Phillies

In just a bit under two months, Rhys Hoskins put himself firmly in the National League Rookie of the Year conversation. If he started the year in Philadelphia, the Rookie of the Year race may have been a lot closer.

Hoskins tore up the International League in his first taste of AAA. He remained in the minors until August 10, producing a .284/.385/.581 batting line, hitting 29 homers and 24 doubles. With his production, and the struggles of Tommy Joseph, it was a matter of time before Hoskins received the call.

In that brief time in the majors, he certainly impressed. He produced a solid .259/.396/.618 batting line, belting 18 homers. In a way, his performance looked a bit like Aaron Judge, as Hoskins also drew 37 walks and struck out 46 times in 212 plate appearances. He may not have had as extreme splits, but Hoskins was a bit of a Three True Outcome player himself.

With the Phillies in the midst of their rebuild, Hoskins certainly appears to be a potential cornerstone player. As they seek to find their way back to the postseason and respectability, Hoskins may well be a part of the next Core Four in Philadelphia. His power bat would certainly look great at first for the next decade.

Rhys Hoskins had a great start to his major league career. Had he spent more of the season at first, he could have made a stronger push as the Rookie of the Year.