The Philadelphia Phillies reached out to free agent Rhys Hoskins on a possible reunion, according to Devan Kaney of 94 WIP. Kaney added that Bryce Harper suggested the move, but Phillies President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski decided against it. This comes amid tensions between Harper and Dombrowski heading into the 2026 season. Harper recently publicly criticized Dombrowski for not doing enough to protect him in the lineup. This adds another layer to the ongoing feud between the two. In this case, Dombrowski is correct that there is not really a fit for Hoskins on the roster. Harper is also correct that Dombrowski should be doing more to help the lineup.

Phillies Reunion with Rhys Hoskins Would Be a Poor Roster Fit

Sources tell me Bryce Harper has been advocating for more right handed power and someone who could give the Phillies more emotional edge/swagger. I’m told Harper suggested Dave Dombrowski look into a reunion with Rhys Hoskins who remains a free agent.

I’m told Hoskins is game…

— Devan Kaney (@Devan_Kaney) February 20, 2026

Last season with the Milwaukee Brewers, Hoskins recorded a .237/.332/.416 line with 12 home runs and 43 RBI in 90 games. He added a 109 wRC+ and a .297 BABIP along with a .324 wOBA. Because of injuries, Hoskins did not play as much in 2025 after having played in 131 games in 2024 with the Brewers. Hoskins had a 0.42 BB/K rate last season. He improved on his OBP, OPS, wRC+, and BB/K rate relative to 2024. The on-field performance does justify looking into bringing Hoskins back to the Phillies. With that being said, Dombrowski has constructed the roster in a way that makes it hard to find a position for Hoskins to play. Dombrowski put himself in this bind by failing to close the deal with Bo Bichette.

Limited Playing Time Opportunities

If Hoskins were to return, Harper would probably have to go back to the outfield to make it work. Harper is on the record saying he would be willing to play the outfield again. However, Dombrowski has passed on multiple opportunities to upgrade by adding a corner infielder and moving Harper back to the outfield. Hoskins has experience in left field, but was moved to first base because of his terrible defense in the outfield. He has a -17 DRS/-19 OAA/-19 FRV fielding line in left field across over 165 games. Another alternative is to have Kyle Schwarber play left field on occasion, while using Hoskins as the right-handed platoon partner for Brandon Marsh. Schwarber is also a subpar defender in left field, though, which is why he is the designated hitter.

What Will Happen Instead with Open Bench Spot

The Phillies will have a roster competition for an open bench role during spring training. Otto Kemp is viewed highly by the club and is likely going to be the platoon partner for Marsh. This leaves one spot open. Johan Rojas is the favorite for the role in part because he is already on the 40-man roster. Rojas does have a minor league option if that comes into play. Dylan Moore and Bryan De La Cruz are also candidates for the role. Moore can play both infield and outfield like Kemp and give defensive flexibility. De La Cruz has experience at all three outfield spots. All three can play center field, unlike Hoskins, which is important from a roster construction standpoint. Hoskins being on the team would limit the Phillies’ defensive versatility.

 

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