Philadelphia Phillies: Unexpected possibilities
By Tal Venada
While righty Shohei Otani‘s goal is to play in the big leagues, many writers are focusing on the monetary factor or a designated-hitter role. Generally speaking, all 30 clubs can negotiate with him if they agree to the $20 million transfer fee for the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, but 12 franchises due to exceeding the financial limit in previous summers can’t offer more than $300,000. The Phillies aren’t one of them. Additionally, the maximum for the International Bonus Allotment to accumulate and proffer is $10.1 million, and no organization even totals that.
Otani, 23:
- 2015: 22 Gms., 15-5 with a 2.24 ERA for 160 2/3 Inn.
- 2016: 21 Gms., 10-4 with a 1.86 ERA for 140 Inn.
- 2017: 5 Gms., 3-2 with a 3.20 ERA for 25 1/3 Inn.
Under consideration, many opportunities are available to Otani: American League clubs can offer the DH for regular at-bats, a rebuilding Senior Circuit organization might propose being a starter and an outfielder, or a contender can proffer pitching and pinch-hitting. Meanwhile, a west coast team has a geographical advantage. But the situation is up in the air because the posting agreement between the MLB and the NPB (Nippon Professional Baseball) recently expired. However, only the MLB Players Union is holding up going by the old pact.
Otani, 23:
- 2016: 104 Gms., 382 PA, .322, 22 HR and 67 RBI.
- 2017: 65 Gms., 231 PA, .322, 8 HR and 31 RBI.
As for the red pinstripes, Klentak’s statement in September indicated the days of regulars playing almost daily is ending. In other words, the Phillies will eventually have 13 position players with the versatility to handle multiple infield and/or outfield roles like Crawford, Williams and Hoskins. Yes, all 13 will receive at least 300-400 ABs each and stay fresh through the postseason: A semi-regular spot and rotation slot could appeal to a two-way standout like Otani. And if the negotiation impasse continues, most franchises will still build their rosters, while the hometown nine can replace a reserve outfielder with Otani at any point. Advantage: Phils!