In a significant move, the Milwaukee Brewers are in the final stages of locking down a two-year, $34 million deal with first baseman Rhys Hoskins, as reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan on Tuesday. The deal is said to include an opt-out option after the initial season.
Rhys Hoskins, who sat out the entire previous season with the Philadelphia Phillies due to a torn ACL, has spent his entire career with the Phillies. However, with Bryce Harper permanently moving to first base during the season and the Phillies acquiring a new direction, Hoskins opted for free agency.
Entering his 31st year in March, Hoskins showcased his prowess in the 2022 season, recording a .246/.332/.462 slash line and amassing 145 hits with 30 home runs. Notably, he played a crucial role in propelling the Phillies to the World Series that year, marking their first postseason appearance in over a decade.
Joining the Brewers, who recently appointed Pat Murphy as the new manager following Craig Counsell’s departure, Hoskins is expected to provide a valuable veteran presence in the lineup. The Brewers, who clinched the NL Central last year but faced a first-round sweep by the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been active in fortifying their roster. The recent signings of backup catcher Eric Haase and center fielder Jackson Chourio to an eight-year, $82 million deal further underline the team’s commitment to enhancing its competitiveness. Hoskins is anticipated to play a pivotal role, potentially securing a regular spot at first base in the upcoming season.