With Andrew McCutchen out for the year with a torn ACL, Philadelphia Phillies prospect Adam Haseley has a chance to cement his place in the majors.
The Philadelphia Phillies were dealt a major blow on Tuesday. Andrew McCutchen, their new center fielder, was placed on the Injured List with a torn ACL. Odubel Herrera, who had been the Phillies center fielder, had his administrative leave for domestic assault extended for two more weeks. Even with Jay Bruce‘s recent acquisition, the Phillies outfield depth has been compromised.
In theory, this would be the time for Roman Quinn to shine. A former top prospect, Quinn has played well at AAA, but has yet to truly establish himself as a major leaguer. In limited action this season, he had produced a meager .120/.185/.120 batting line in 27 plate appearances. Quinn is also on the Injured List with a groin strain, and is expected to be sidelined until the middle of the month.
Enter another top outfield prospect from the Phillies system. Adam Haseley, the Phillies first round pick in the 2017 MLB Draft, has been brought to the majors. He was immediately inserted into the lineup on Wednesday, batting eighth for Philadelphia.
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Haseley has rocketed through the Phillies system, reaching the majors in just under two years. The former eighth overall pick had a solid showing in the minors at both AA and in his brief time in AAA. Over those two levels, he had produced a solid .275/.358/.466 batting line, hitting seven homers and 11 doubles in his 204 plate appearances.
Haseley, who had been considered the Phillies third best prospect heading into the season, was an exciting two way player in college. Considered to have a strong batting eye and excellent contact skills, his burgeoning power and speed could lead Haseley to be a potential five tool player in the majors.
He is certainly going to get the chance to prove he can belong. With the money being paid out to players like Bryce Harper and McCutchen, the Phillies will need to find young, inexpensive talent to fill in around them. Should Haseley be able to prove that he is ready for the majors, he may become a key part of not just the future, but the present as well.
The Philadelphia Phillies are giving Adam Haseley a chance at the major leagues already. If he gets off to a hot start, he may never return to the minors.