Phillies: New wrinkle to plan A
By Tal Venada
Outfield green:
Hoskins is averaging .260 with 21 bombs and 70 RBIs projecting to 32 homers and 108 RBIs. But because Nick Williams and Aaron Altherr had their difficulties in the first half, Hoskins received just a few days off. In fact, his disabled-list stint provided that and an opportunity for Williams and Altherr.
Odubel Herrera is a surprise every 162 except for the hot streaks and cold spells. Again, he’s caught everyone off guard by being among the club’s leaders with 19 home runs and 58 RBIs and is on pace for 29 long balls and 90 RBIs. But the non-productive right fielders didn’t provide Herrera with downtime.
However, Double D, Williams’ stats have improved since Altherr’s demotion on July 23. In fact, Williams has played every day beginning on July 22 and is hitting .361 with three bombs and five RBIs: nine games and 36 at-bats. And his .261 average represents an increase of 15 points.
Basically, Kapler’s original thinking was for Williams and Altherr to do more than split right field. And they had the entire first half. After the break, however, Altherr returned to Lehigh Valley. Translation: The league had adjusted to Altherr, and he had no answer. .
As for Roman Quinn, he had three rehab games: two with the Single-A Advanced Clearwater Threshers and one with the Double-A Reading Fightin Phils. Then, he went three for eight in two IronPigs’ contests before his call-up. But can he stay healthy and also provide some rest for Hoskins, Herrera and Williams?
"WORTH REPEATING: “Planning is bringing the future into the present so that you can do something about it now.” – Alan Lakein"