The Phillies’ backup plan for Brent Rooker might be an even better fit

Rooker, while having an incredible season, is not a good fit with the Phillies as he is seen almost exclusively as a designated hitter this season. Philadelphia has defensive liability Kyle Schwarber leading their DH this season and beyond.

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Philadelphia sees Robert as a much better fit than Rooker for a few reasons. The main one being defense.

Luis Robert may not win a Gold Glove for his defensive work, but he is certainly an above-average defender. According to Baseball Savant, Robert is worth 2 OAA and ranks in the top 30 percent in run value.

He has solid speed and a decent arm while getting to balls that the average center fielder wouldn’t.

Rooker, on the other hand, is simply a designated hitter. That means for him to suit up with the Phillies, either Rooker or Schwarber would have to play the outfield. Couple that with Nick Castellanos’ awful defense and you have the worst defensive backfield in the league.

Yes, Rooker would be an offensive upgrade, he’s slashing .290/.368/.571, but his lack of true position makes him a no-go for the Phillies.

Robert is also probably the best player on the market, which is why he is the most expensive. Philadelphia would have to reach deep into their cap space to make a deal for the White Sox outfielder.

Robert, under team control through 2027, is slashing .232/.306/.475 while on pace to hit 20 home runs and steal 20 bases. Had Robert been healthy earlier in the year, he could have been a threat to hit 30 or 40 home runs while stealing just as many bases.

Couple that with an above average defense in center field and the Phillies won’t look bad if they pass on Rooker and get Robert.