Phillies Plans for 2017: Where Does Tyler Goeddel Fit in?
Last season, Tyler Goeddel reported to spring training, with a job that was almost fully guaranteed.
In the Rule 5 draft, the Philadelphia Phillies selected the outfielder, and there was no way they would not invite him for the start of camp.
One season later, signs are pointing to Goeddel not even starting in the outfield for triple A.
Last season, Goeddel made the jump from double A to the majors and earned himself a .192 batting average, with a .258 on-base percentage.
Now, at age 24, Goeddel is struggling to find a starting spot to claim this season.
Lehigh Valley’s outfield slots appear to be claimed by Dylan Cozens, Roman Quinn and Nick Williams.
To play every day, Goeddel’s best chance will be as the designated hitter for the IronPigs.
In regards to the Phillies, the outfield picture is loaded with competition this year.
Though Goeddel is currently listed on the team’s 40-man roster, it may need to be trimmed if the team decides to add a few non-roster invitees to the opening-day roster, such as Chris Coghlan or Brock Stassi.
If the Phillies decide to execute such plans, Goeddel may be removed from the roster.
“We have a lot of guys in here this year and we’re not sure who’s going to go where,” Goeddel said. “It’s fun to be a part of because there’s so many guys fighting for a job. It’s competitive in here right now. We know there’s a ton of talent in this room and everyone is fighting for the same spots. We’re bringing out the best in each other. Whatever happens, happens.”
Last season, Goeddel received limited playing time, starting just 56 games and totaling 213 at-bats.
Furthermore, he spent the entire 2015 season in double A, before the Phillies grabbed him from Tampa Bay, with the first pick in the Rule 5 draft, leaving many to believe that an extended stint in triple A could be beneficial for the young outfielder.
Across a 23 game-stretch in May, Goeddel received the most consistent playing time of his career thus far. Over that time, he earned himself a .286 batting average, with a .337 on-base percentage in his time as a starter.
When Cody Asche returned from the disabled list, Goeddel returned to the bench.
“It was definitely a big jump from double A,” Goeddel said. “But that one month I had, when I got to start, I know I did pretty well so I have that confidence that I can play up there. I think that’s huge. The more you can trust yourself when you’re up there, the easier the transition is. I know I can play there now. It’s exciting.”
Goeddel’s rookie season came to an end when he suffered a concussion, after being hit in the head by a pitch.
After July 1, Goeddel collected just a mere nine hits.
It was a frustrating way to end his first season at the major league level, and if Goeddel wants to get back, he will have to return to the minors and earn his way back up through the ranks.
“I learned a lot,” Goeddel said. “Even though I didn’t get the normal at-bats that you get in a year, I still learned a ton just being up there and working with the guys every day. You face the best pitchers in the world every day and it’s tough to not carry what I learned last year into this year. I feel like I’m a lot better player this year than I was last year.”
Photo: WEBN-TV (via: Flickr)
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Categorized:Phillies