MLB Rumors: Philadelphia Phillies Linked To Free Agent Former All-Star

With the injuries to Rhys Hoskins and Darick Hall, the Philadelphia Phillies are still without an established first baseman. 

And the talk of Bryce Harper playing first was seemingly a little premature. His recovery from Tommy John surgery is limiting him to batting responsibilities for now; he's unlikely to play any first base before the All-Star break, according to manager Rob Thomson on Friday. They're playing it safe with Harper, who's just seven months out from the surgery on his elbow.

So that leaves the Phillies to consider the possibility of taking a flyer on veteran free agent and former All-Star Eric Hosmer. Don't shoot the messenger, Phillies fans, that's the rumor from MLB Insider Jon Heyman. 

Hosmer was DFA'd and subsequently released by the Chicago Cubs this week after continuing to show that he's simply not a factor offensively in the major leagues any longer. The 33-year-old hit .234 with a .610 OPS for the Cubs in 100 plate appearances. That continues his precipitous decline over the past few years. 

But hey, as even Cubs fans found out, he can still pick it at first base:

Hosmer sucked but damn this was a sweet pick. pic.twitter.com/RT9UfNQs9s

— This Day in Chicago Sports (@ChiSportsDay) May 19, 2023

As for Hall, his recovery is coming along according to the latest reports, and he could begin a rehab assignment as early as next week, with a return sometime in June. 

So perhaps the grasping at the Hosmer straw won't be necessary just yet. 

Photo: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports