Philadelphia Phillies: Five Areas Where They Need Improvement

May 29, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Philadelphia Phillies left fielder Tyler Goeddel (2) fields a ball hit by Chicago Cubs catcher Miguel Montero (47) in the fifth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports
May 29, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Philadelphia Phillies left fielder Tyler Goeddel (2) fields a ball hit by Chicago Cubs catcher Miguel Montero (47) in the fifth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports /
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May 22, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies left fielder Tyler Goeddel (2) rounds the bases after hitting a triple in the second inning against the Atlanta Braves at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: John Geliebter-USA TODAY Sports /

Have the Philadelphia Phillies struck gold in the Rule 5 draft again? After drafting Odubel Herrera last year the Philadelphia Phillies picked pitcher Daniel Stumpf and outfielder Tyler Goeddel this year. While Stumpf has struggled, Goeddel has begun to thrive with increased playing time.

When the season started Goeddel played fantastic defense but he couldn’t get into an offensive rhythm without playing every day. Now he has been getting more starts and the results have shown in a .272/.309/.402 slash line. Goeddel brings a mix of speed, defense, and contact that helps the Phillies as a whole. And let’s not forget about his arm:

In his last 15 games, Goeddel is slashing .304/.385/.522 showing that he’s a player that thrives with more playing time. Goeddel is good enough defensively to deserve to start over

Peter Bourjos

and

David Lough

in the outfield for the Phillies.

Next: Should the Phillies Trade for Mike Trout?

Goeddel could be the second outfielder in a row that the Phillies have struck gold on but they won’t know for sure unless they play the man. If the Phillies expect to put out their best outfield each night, it should include Tyler Goeddel.