Once, seemingly a long time ago, Odubel Herrera was considered to be a part of the solution for the Philadelphia Phillies. After two solid seasons, and an All Star berth in 2016, he was handed a five year extension, with the Phillies hoping that he would be a building block for years to come.
However, Herrera’s production began to decrease. After a mediocre start to his 2019 season, Herrera was suspended for 85 games for violating the league’s policy against domestic violence, leading to his being outrighted from the 40 man roster prior to the 2020 season.
Philadelphia Phillies hope Odubel Herrera can provide a spark
Desperate times call for desperate measures. Phillies center fielders have been a disaster this season, with just nine hits in 89 plate appearances. Their .114/.213/.177 batting line has been utterly atrocious, as neither Roman Quinn nor Mickey Moniak could provide any type of spark to the offense.
And now, in their desperation, the Phillies turn to Herrera, bringing him back to the major league roster. There had been rumblings that he was being considered for a spot on the Opening Day roster before he was ultimately sent to the alternate site, but the Phillies are essentially out of options.
All they need is for Herrera to be a competent major league outfielder. If he can match his career numbers, a .276/.333/.423 batting line with double digits in homers and steals, the Phillies would be ecstatic. That type of production would be light years ahead of what they had been receiving.
it is clear that Herrera will depart after this season. The Phillies hold two team options for a combined $24 million, as the team will pay the buyout cost instead of spending that money on a player they had no interest in bringing up. However, they may be able to get some return on investment, especially if Herrera can be an answer in center.
The Philadelphia Phillies are desperate to find anyone that can be useful in center field. That desperation has led to Odubel Herrera’s return.