After a disappointing 5-8 start and dropping 4 of their last 5, the Phillies have shaken things up on the roster. Alec Bohm is now on his way to join the Phillies and should provide much-needed help at the infield positions. At the moment it is unclear what player will be sent down, but it seems likely that some sort of injury designation is soon to come. Known for his bat, Bohm will likely find a way into the lineup immediately as players like Rhys Hoskins, Scott Kingery, and Jean Segura have all been underperforming.
Bohm’s away!
Alec Bohm is now 24 years old and was the 3rd overall pick in the 2018 MLB draft. In his time in the minors last season, Bohm hit .305 with 21 home runs and 80 RBIs across time at Lakewood, Clearwater, and Reading. Standing at 6’5 and 225 pounds, Bohm has begun to grow into his frame and has seen his power numbers increase over the past year. When he got time in the majors in 2018 he went without a homer in 158 plate appearances, but his power numbers were more promising last season. It seemed likely that Bohm would find his way to the majors at some point, and while it may be earlier than most would have expected it certainly seems needed.
Bohm can play both First and 3rd Base and will provide much more flexibility for Joe Girardi when putting together a lineup. Excluding Didi Gregorius, the entire infield has underperformed. Rhys Hoskins is currently hitting .190, Scott Kingery’s average has dropped to .100, and Jean Segura has hit a measly .205. Neil Walker and Scott Kingery have a combined WAR of -0.8, which is the worst production out of any second base situation in the majors. Bohm may be given a chance at 3rd in order to move Jean Segura to his more natural 2nd base position and send Kingery to the bench. Bohm can also provide an intriguing DH option against left-handed pitchers.
Where will he fit in?
With the shortened season this year, the Phillies need to right the ship as soon as possible. Bohm will be expected to make an immediate impact on the team and hopefully provide this boost. The Phillies have dropped the last 2 games to the Orioles and have also lost the series with the Marlins this year. The costly misplay of the infield between Segura and Hoskins may have been the straw that broke the camel’s back and put this move in motion. Regardless, Bohm will bring some excitement to the Phillies, and hopefully, a change in the momentum of the team will come with it.
Mandatory Credit: Butch Dill-USA TODAY Sports
