Apr 10, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Bryson Stott (5) against the Oakland Athletics at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Philadelphia Phillies recall Bryson Stott out of necessity
Bryson Stott had his place on the Philadelphia Phillies Opening Day roster seemingly set in stone before spring training began. After Didi Gregorius’ disappointing 2021 season, there was no guarantee that the incumbent shortstop would be on the roster. Stott, meanwhile, had become the Phillies’ top hitting prospect and appeared ready to take over the position.
Except he was not ready. Stott disappointed in his 31 plate appearances, with just four hits, including a double, and ten strikeouts. He shuffled between second, third, and short as the Phillies could not find a spot for him in the lineup, something that may well have contributed to his issues. He was sent back to Triple-A with the hope that he could find his way at the plate once more.
Bryson Stott returns to Philadelphia Phillies
Now Stott is back. Gregorius has been placed on the Injured List with a sprained right knee, theoretically opening a spot in the lineup for the Phillies’ prospect.
It is a promotion that is well deserved. Stott did exactly what the Phillies could have hoped for during his sojourn to Lehigh Valley, producing a .333/.375/.611 batting line in his 40 plate appearances with two homers, two doubles, and two steals. It may be a small sample size, but Stott seems to have gotten back on track.
And yet, nothing may change. Stott is not guaranteed a spot in the lineup with his return as Johan Camargo has swung a hot bat to begin the season. The Phillies are going to look to get him in the lineup as much as possible as well, leading to the possibility that Stott is once against shuffled between positions and receives sporadic playing time until Gregorius returns.
At this point, the Phillies do not have a great track record as it pertains to their top prospects. Stott was supposed to change that, a potential star shortstop who appeared to be handed a starting role. Instead, they have moved him around and not allowed him to settle into the majors, making his first stint in Philadelphia a disappointment. That may not change if they continue that same strategy this time around as well.
Bryson Stott is back with the Philadelphia Phillies. Unless they give him a set place in the lineup, nothing may change with his performance.
