Philadelphia Phillies: Unexpected possibilities

Below the surface of normality, next season will unfold in unpredictable ways even without the injuries and rehabs expected by general manager Matt Klentak of the Philadelphia Phillies.

Wrinkles ahead: 

The best time to review the past is in the present when you’re searching for clues to the future.

After the Phils finished their final games with a 37-36 record, the front office continued to examine the rosters and situations of their 29 competitors. Yes, the phone calls, the powwows and the strategy are part of the methodical work of acquiring the missing pieces for Opening Day. Meanwhile, writers are speculating, while they seek bits of information on the franchise’s direction. However, the Winter Meetings will accelerate this process with clues from other organizations and agents. Rumor or real?

In 2017, Aaron Nola made an impact in his third summer: GMs anticipate two years of development before a major leaguer begins leaving his mark. And even though fans didn’t expect a two-month stretch of dominate pitching, baseball men knew it was a possibility.

Regarding Rhys Hoskins, seeing his at-bats made the difference in the level of surprise experienced by the faithful and scribes alike. But his first test in the majors was to prove he could hit a fastball: He did. That stated, starters will now throw off-speed stuff or unintentionally walk him to face Nick Williams instead. Yes, when this happens, it will stun many but it was visible for the final 17 days of ’17. He’ll need the patience to wait for mistakes.

If you really want a jaw-dropper, Odubel Herrera will not disappoint you. The Rule 5 draftee and converted second baseman had quickly switched from left field to center during spring training in 2015 and averaged .297 as a rookie. For 2016, he batted .294 with 47 free passes for the first half. And last season, he had a long cold spell and a lengthy hot streak. Basically, he’s full of surprises.

During the last 162, Williams demonstrated his hitting skills, power and RBI potential. But the left-handed outfielders will alternate in front of and behind Hoskins if hurlers pitch around him to face Williams. In other words, can Williams handle the pressure of that and a steady diet of breaking balls? Will he again be an eye-opener?

"THE WAY IT WAS: “I saw a lot of good hitters but I never saw a better one than Paul Waner. I mean I once threw a side arm spitter right into his belly and he hit it into the upper deck.” – Burleigh Grimes"