Philadelphia Phillies: 3 ways to fix the defense next season

3. If Bryson Stott isn’t the future Philadelphia Phillies shortstop, they need to decide on his new position.

Bryson Stott could always end up as the starting third baseman or second baseman for the Phillies as soon as next year. It could actually improve his defensive performance considering shortstop is one of the hardest places to play. Opening up shortstop isn’t such a bad thing with how many gifted players are often swapping teams at this position.

Next year’s free agent shortstop class can offer the Phillies a variety of options. Xander Bogaerts and Carlos Correa will probably opt-out of their current deals. Defensively strong Jose Iglesias and Andrelton Simmons join the mix once again.

First-time free agents Dansby Swanson and Trea Turner will also reach the open market. Turner might price his way out of what the Phillies might willing to spend. Fortunately, Swanson could be more realistic and give the Phillies the kind of shortstop defense they crave.

Swanson has never won a Gold Glove yet he has ended each season of his career with a positive WAR on defense. Also capable of hitting well at times, he’d actually fit in well with the Phillies.

Under this plan, the Phillies could lineup like this defensively next year:

C – J.T. Realmuto
1B – Alec Bohm
2B – Jean Segura
3B – Bryson Stott
SS – Dansby Swanson
LF – Nick Castellanos
CF – Brandon Nimmo
RF – Bryce Harper
DH – Kyle Schwarber

There are, of course, some other directions the team can go. Perhaps best of all, it might even improve the offseason, too.