Harper to be Phils' full-time 1B: 'Makes us better'

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — The Philadelphia Phillies have decided two-time Most Valuable Player Bryce Harper is the team’s first baseman of the future, which means the franchise is moving on from slugger Rhys Hoskins.

Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski said Tuesday the front office and manager Rob Thomson came to the conclusion that Harper was the best option at first base. Harper, 31, made 36 starts there this season after Hoskins tore his ACL during spring training.

“We think he projects to be an outstanding first baseman,” Dombrowski told the AP at the GM meetings. “He’s willing to do whatever for the organization, and we just think for us, it makes us a better club now and as we go forward.

“It gives us a really good, athletic infield that can be together for years.”

Harper, an outfielder his entire career until Tommy John surgery last Nov. 23, made first base a good fit. Returning earlier than expected on May 2, he hit .293 with 21 homers and 72 RBIs in 126 games, helping the Phillies advance to the NL Championship Series before losing to the Arizona Diamondbacks in seven games.

Dombrowski also said he has informed Hoskins — now a free agent — about the team’s plan. Dombrowski added that there wouldn’t be enough at-bats for Hoskins in a lineup that also includes slugger Kyle Schwarber, who takes a lot of plate appearances at designated hitter.

The Phillies are expected to have an experienced, talented infield next season with Harper at first, Bryson Stott at second, Trea Turner at shortstop and Alec Bohm at third.

During the recently completed playoffs, Harper credited Phillies infield coach Bobby Dickerson for easing his transition to the infield.

“I feel good at first base,” Harper said in October. “Working with Bobby every single day and getting me out there every day has been huge. Just trying to be really good over there for the guys in the infield.”