Philadelphia Phillies: 4 bold predictions for the 2019 season

Jean Segura sets the tone

While new Phillies rightfielder Bryce Harper receives all the attention and praise of the offseason haul (deservedly so), the player that will have the biggest impact on the team is probably its quietest acquisition: shortstop Jean Segura.

Entering his eighth year in the league, Segura is a contact hitter that will set the table nicely for the big bats that follow. Not one for taking many walks, the two-time All-Star finished 2018 with a .304 BA on 178 hits, good for 25 more than last year’s leading Phillie – Cesar Hernandez – who tallied 153.

In today’s era of launch angle swings and exit velocity, it’s imperative to have runners on base, and Segura fits the bill. With a career OBP of .327, Segura slots in perfectly as a two-hole hitter. He seldom strikes out, as evidenced by the meager 69 whiffs a season ago.

Much like his acquisition flew under the radar for some, I expect his productivity to be quiet but efficient. In fact, more efficient than any of the other Phillies’ acquisitions.

While home runs are flashy and fun, timely hitting ultimately wins games. (And championships.) Segura’s addition is exactly what the doctor ordered, and Gabe Kapler will feel confident with him at the plate.

Segura is also a two-way player, meaning he’s just as valuable in the field as at the plate. Last year’s Phillies team was downright awful defensively, and one position of blame was shortstop. While Scott Kingery was adequate for the games he played manning the middle; the 29-year-old Segura is an overall upgrade at a pivotal position.

Bryce Harper, J.T. Realmuto, and Andrew McCutchen are significant upgrades. David Robertson, too, on the pitching side. But Jean Segura’s all-around ability will prove to be the most valuable offseason acquisition for a Phillies team that struggled mightily in the field in 2018 and was seemingly just as lackluster at registering a timely hit.