Tyler Trumbauer
Since the 2016 Phillies season ended, I’ve looked at the roster by position group and predicted whether that player will be with the big league club in 2017. I’ve looked at the infielders and the catchers, so far. Today, it’s the outfielders’ turn.
Aaron Altherr: The 2009 draft pick by the Phillies missed most of the 2016 campaign due to a wrist injury suffered during spring training. Before being sidelined, there were high hopes for Altherr after he had a very successful 2015 season in Triple-A. Upon his return, Altherr had a hot start, but slowed down by the end of the season, ending with a .197 batting average. The outfield was muddled this year and I expect the same for 2017, but I believe Altherr has a shot to be an everyday starter in Philly next season.
Cody Asche: Asche has never perfectly fit in at one position with the major league club. First at third base, but then forced to convert to the outfield. He struggled at the plate this season as he hit .213 in 197 at-bats. The outfield is crowded with too many average to above-average players on the roster. With Asche due to be a free agent, I think it is time to let him walk.
Peter Bourjos: The Phillies claimed Bourjos off of waivers last December and signed him to a one-year deal worth $2 million for the 2016 season. Bourjos was a dependable option for the Phillies and I think the Phillies received more from him than they expected. However, I don’t think he provides the big bat the manager Pete Mackanin is looking for the front office to get him this offseason. With other, younger talent in the pipeline for the outfield, I think Bourjos won’t be back in 2017.
Tyler Goeddel: Goeddel, a Rule 5 pick by the Phillies last year, made his MLB debut this past season. Keeping that in mind, he was still a bit underwhelming. Additionally, he does not pass the “eye” test as he does not look strong enough to be a power hitter that the Phillies need out of their outfielders. Goeddel has a chance to be back, but I would rather he wasn’t.
Odubel Herrera: This is the easiest one. Despite the trade rumors that popped up throughout the season, Herrera was the lone Phillies’ All-Star this season and was one of the best players in the MLB in the first half of the season. He will be back in 2017.
Roman Quinn: The young outfielder was part of the September call-ups and showed some promise, especially on the basepaths, as he swiped 5 bags in his 15 games played during his short first stint in the big leagues. The call up was a great chance for Quinn to show his progress, even as he made the jump from Double-A. Quinn is a promising prospect, but will be at Triple-A in 2017.