Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Rhys Hoskins. Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

Phillies manager leaves door open for return of power-hitting 1B

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 7/27/23

When Rhys Hoskins suffered a torn ACL during spring training it was assumed that the 30-year-old wouldn't return to the diamond this season.

Philadelphia Phillies manager Rob Thomson said Wednesday there's a shot that Hoskins could return.

"He's doing extremely well. He's now jogging...I don't know what the timeline is because I am not a doctor or trainer, but it seems to me he is further along than I expected him to be.

"I think there's a chance he could be back."

— Thomson on Rhys (via @WIPMorningShow) pic.twitter.com/4Qe8XrSdhS
— SPORTSRADIO 94WIP (@SportsRadioWIP) July 26, 2023

Phillies fans know a thing or two about their favorite players defying the odds and making a quicker than anticipated comeback.

Former NL MVP Bryce Harper had Tommy John surgery in late November 2022 and was predicted to be back on the field in some capacity in July. Harper stunned fans in early May when he came back as Philadelphia's designated hitter just 159 days after the surgery.

The seven-time All-Star made his first career start at first base last week and is expected to see time at the new position as Hoskins continues his recovery. If Harper can successfully adjust to first base, it'll open up the designated hitter spot in the lineup for Kyle Schwarber, a known liability in left field.

Alec Bohm and Kody Clemens have received the majority of the playing time at first base in Hoskins' absence this season. If the latter is able to return at all this year, it'll be an added bonus for the defending NL champions.

Hoskins had a career high 145 hits during the 2022 campaign and added 30 home runs, 79 RBI and a .246/.332/.462 slash line over 589 at-bats in 156 games played.

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