Is There a Strategy for Phillies to Wait on Former Yankees Slugger’s Free Agency?

The Milwaukee Brewers are currently deliberating whether to include former Yankees first baseman and designated hitter Luke Voit in their Opening Day roster or to let him go. There are mixed indications regarding his future with the team.

Voit’s removal from the lineup on Friday seemed to suggest he might exercise his opt-out clause. Last week, he had extended his decision deadline to Friday while noting interest from other teams.

Later that same day, the Brewers informed infielder Keston Hiura that he would not be part of the active roster. With Hiura out of minor league options, the team faces the choice of trading him or placing him on waivers, potentially clearing a spot for Voit.

At the same time, the Philadelphia Phillies might be seeking a power hitter for first base due to the loss of first baseman Rhys Hoskins to knee surgery and uncertainty over right fielder Bryce Harper’s return from Tommy John surgery.

According to MLBtraderumors.com:

The Phillies need to figure out their first base situation. Darick Hall, a left-handed hitter who made a strong debut with nine home runs and a .522 slugging percentage in 42 games last season, is a primary candidate.

Other options include occasional appearances by Kyle Schwarber or Nick Castellanos at first base. Utility players like Josh Harrison or Kody Clemens could get some at-bats but are not likely to be regulars. Another strategy might be moving third baseman Alec Bohm to first base for certain matchups, with Harrison or Edmundo Sosa filling in at third base.

Since winning the AL home run title with the Yankees during the 2020 Covid-shortened season, Voit has played with various teams, including the Padres and Nationals. He may face another change in team soon.

Voit’s current performance shows a .316 batting average, two home runs, and four RBIs, with an OPS of .859. “I’ve done everything I can,” Voit told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. “I’m hitting well, having fun, and enjoying my time with these great guys. I’m just focusing on staying in shape.”