MLB analyst cautiously optimistic about unheralded Phillies 1B Darick Hall’s “Rookie of the Year” chances
MLB analyst Chris Gimenez feels that Darick Hall is an important key to the Philadelphia Phillies' success in the upcoming season.
As per Gimenez, after star first baseman Rhys Hoskins' injury, Hall will have to fill his shoes if the Phillies are to repeat their success from last season.
Darick Hall has been in the Philadelphia system since 2016 after his selection in the 14th round of the MLB draft. However, the rookie was only introduced to the MLB in 2022 and is yet to play a full season with his club. Hall slashed .250/.282/.522 with eight doubles and nine home runs in 41 games played during 2022.
Rhys Hoskins' injury came as a major blow to Philadelphia as the first baseman was injured on a regular defensive play in their Spring Training game. Hoskins had an ACL tear and will require surgery that should keep him out for the majority of the season. This is where Darick Hall should come in and provide a major backup to the National League penant holders.
Here's what Gimenez said on MLB Network Radio:
"I think people are sleeping on this guy a little bit. He had a phenonemal Spring Training with .315 and 3 bombs.
"Darick Hall if you ask me can be a potentially sneaky sneaky pick for Rookie of the Year. Hitting in that ballpark, in that lineup, you know he's got some protection there. I think he replaces a lot of protection that Hoskins provided with probably a better average."
"People are sleeping on this guy."
With Rhys Hoskins out, @ChrisGimenez5 thinks @HallDarick could be a major contributor for the #Phillies.
@Phillies | #RingTheBell https://t.co/NeJG1vc3xh
Chris Gimenez feels that youngsters like Darick Hall will look up to Rhys Hoskings for motivation
Apart from his prowess at the plate, the Phillies will be missing out on the leadership skills that Rhys Hoskins brought with him into the team. As per Chris Gimenez, the veteran first baseman held the team together in the clubhouse. He feels that Hoskins can still provide that leadership during his visits to the ballpark.
"Hoskins perennial thirty home run. He is going to hit .240 or .250, good. But where they are going to miss Hoskins the most is in the clubhouse, from a leadership perspective. He is kind of the heart and soul of this team. He will be around for some of this games but it is not the same... I feel some of these youngsters will listen to his words."
The Phillies will be looking to repeat their penant winning success and get back on track as the regular season unfolds.