3 Phillies roster concerns we still have even after signing Trea Turner

3) Phillies roster concern: What’s the plan while Bryce Harper is out?

Tommy John Surgery will claim Bryce Harper for at least a couple of months. Where do the Phillies turn in his absence?

It’s nearly impossible for Philadelphia to temporarily find a solution for Harper while he is recovering. Darick Hall, who saw an opportunity to play regularly for the Phillies while Harper was injured last year, is an easy choice. The downside with him is he’s a first baseman/DH. The Phillies roster already has about four of those guys.

The front office will have a time convincing any free agent of significance to sign with them knowing he’ll get pushed aside when Harper does return. Their Opening Day outfield alignment could easily have Kyle Schwarber in left field and Nick Castellanos in right field with Hall as the team’s DH.

Taking a chance on someone like Kevin Kiermaier might be wise for the Phillies. Utility men Nick Maton and Matt Vierling have minor league options remaining. Kiermaier could be a reasonable addition for the club to make with the plan to utilize him as a late-inning defensive replacement. In Harper’s absence, he could even get regular starts in center field with Brandon Marsh in left.

The Phillies will score plenty of runs even while missing Harper. The concern is choosing the right player to make up for it. They shouldn’t rest with the options they already have. A defense-focused outfielder with some upside in his bat might make the most sense.