Three Potential Teams Hoskins Could Land with in Free Agency

The Philadelphia Phillies have not given first baseman Rhys Hoskins a qualified offer and have till Monday to do so before he is free game for all other clubs without draft compensation attached. 

The qualifying offer is $20.5 million this winter, a hefty price tag for a single season of Hoskins, but it could still make sense for both sides. However, Harper has transitioned well to first and that could lead to a more permanent role at the position.

With Harper at the first, the Phillies don't have much of a reason to try and pursue a long-term deal with Hoskins. 

Additionally, there are some concerns surrounding Hoskins. The slugger was sidelined for the entirety of the 2023 season due to a torn left ACL he suffered in MLB Spring Training. However, Hoskins has a career .242/.353/.492 slashline but his defense has hovered around serviceable for the majority of his career. 

If Hoskins doesn't remain in Philadelphia's organization, there are three teams he could be a great fit for according to MLB.com.

Milwaukee Brewers

The Milwaukee Brewers are among those listed as a potential fit for Hoskins. The Brewers won the National League Central division, but were swept 2-0 in the Wild Card series by the Arizona Diamondbacks. 

The Brewers current first baseman, Rowdy Tellez, had a below average season hitting .215/.291/.667. Whether the goal is to win another division title or make a run at the World Series, Milwaukee needs to make those smalls changes to take that next step further. Additionally, they will have to fend off the surging Chicago Cubs.

Hoskins' leadership and slugging ability may be exactly the thing Milwaukee needs to get over that next hump. 

Seattle Mariners

It is hard to see why the article would link Hoskins to the Seattle Mariners. For starters, Seattle already employs Ty France who is an obvious comp to Hoskins. France's career slashline of .270/.344/.417 looks a lot like Hoskins, just with a bit less power. 

Additionally, the Mariners have plenty of holes to fill on the roster if they hope to contend in a stacked American League West. Spending money on a long-term deal on a player to man a position they already have a budding star at seems a bit irresponsible. But it was listed as a "fit" in the article so here it is.

San Diego Padres

As far teams making sense for Hoskins, this one tops the list. . . despite being listed last. The San Diego Padres are entering the season with Matthew Batten (?) at first base. A career .669 OPS type guy over 139 at-bats doesn't inspire much, so adding Hoskins could be a great addition. 

It just depends on which direction the Padres want to go. There is plenty of speculation that they will be shedding payroll and that they had even taken out a massive loan to help cover expenses last season. 

Add in the fact they are potentially listening to offers for Juan Soto and the future is looking as bleak as May Gray and June Gloom over in San Diego.