The Philadelphia Phillies have World Series hopes going into the 2026 Major League Baseball season. However, there is cause for concern regarding the roster.
The pitching staff isn’t as good as it used to be, the offense hasn’t changed much from 2025, and the players are getting older. The absence of a right-handed power batter in the lineup is another problem. Additionally, a well-known face is still available for free agency.
Devan Kaney of 94 WIP claims that Bryce Harper is pressuring Dave Dombrowski and the Phillies to offer the adored postseason hero Rhys Hoskins a new contract. Dombrowski is game, but is Hoskins?
Bryce Harper wants Phillies to sign Rhys Hoskins
“Sources tell me Bryce Harper has been advocating for more right-handed power and someone who could give the Phillies more emotional edge/swagger,” Kaney writes. “I’ve been informed that Harper advised Dave Dombrowski to consider getting back together with Rhys Hoskins, who is still a free agent. I’ve been informed that Hoskins is eager to return and complete his work with the Phillies.”
The Phillies would enjoy a reunion with Hoskins. Theoretically, it makes perfect sense to add a well-known player to increase the Phillies’ power from the right side of the plate.
Harper and Hoskins are on board, and many Phillies supporters would undoubtedly be thrilled to see this happen as well. Dombrowski, however, isn’t always in agreement.According to insiders, Dombrowski explored a possible reunion before concluding that Hoskoins was not a good fit, as reported by Kaney.
The seasoned first baseman Hoskins is not happy with the Phillies. He is no longer a good outfield player, and Hoskins does not now have a slot available on the roster because Kyle Schwarber is firmly established as the designated hitter.
Harper may return to the outfield for the Phillies, freeing up Hoskins to take over at first base. However, this would require Adolis Garcia to either shift Brandon Marsh to center and play Justin Crawford less or split time with Marsh in left field.
Without a trade, cut, or injury, it seems unlikely that the Phillies will be able to add Hoskins to the MLB roster. Hoskins is unable to have a fit because of Harper and Schwarber.
A reunion with Hoskins would be fantastic because it would be a delightful storyline to see the adored postseason hero return to Philadelphia. But right now, it’s not really realistic for the Phillies. This reunion doesn’t seem likely unless something drastically changes.
