3 Phillies trades to help replace Rhys Hoskins after ACL tear

A major injury to first baseman Rhys Hoskins should have the Philadelphia Phillies considering these three trade options.

Light a candle for Rhys Hoskins and his knee. The Philadelphia Phillies first baseman went down during Thursday’s game against the Detroit Tigers while fielding a ball. The timing of it couldn’t be much more horrendous. Opening Day is so close that any chance of making a significant move to help replace him is winding down.

The Phillies still need to receive a clearer prognosis as to how long he will miss. There was some early optimism after Hoskins was walking after the game. However, the organization announced that he’d torn his ACL.

If he misses any extended period of time, the Phillies should get on the phone and try to make one of those late spring trades. Any of these three players capable of playing first base can help ease some of the pain and get the team through any long absence. The Phillies could always have the option of checking out players at other positions as well. Moving Alec Bohm, Kyle Schwarber, or Nick Castellanos to first base is one way to explore other trade candidates. For now, let’s stick with first basemen who might be able to provide innings somewhere else, too.

3. Phillies trade candidate to replace Rhys Hoskins: Garrett Cooper

The Phillies won’t have to look too far for a logical first base fit. Within their own division, they can find Miami Marlins first baseman Garrett Cooper. A bit unimpressive yet seemingly available for the right price, Cooper did represent Miami in last year’s All-Star Game although it’s debatable if he really deserved a spot.

Cooper is a lifetime .274/.348/.440 hitter with an average of 18 home runs per 162 games. He has experience at first base and in right field which helps make him an asset beyond just replacing Hoskins.

Cooper becomes a free agent after this season where he’ll compete alongside Hoskins for a new contract. Miami signed Yuli Gurriel this offseason, giving them an obvious replacement at the position.

The tricky part is going to the Marlins in a time of need and getting a fair price on Cooper. The Marlins have no desperation to trade him. The Phillies, with Hoskins out for a long time, might have to overpay.

As a right-handed hitter, Cooper could give the Phillies a little more balance in a lineup somewhat dominated by lefties. He’d be a solid part-time player later on in the year if Hoskins could return or if another in-house option emerges.