Rhys Hoskins signs with NL Central team

Nov 1, 2022; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Rhys Hoskins (17) warms up before game three of the 2022 World Series against the Houston Astros at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports

Former Philadelphia Phillies slugger Rhys Hoskins has found a new home.

The Milwaukee Brewers are expected to sign Hoskins to a 2-year, $34 million deal, ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported on Tuesday. The contract will reportedly have an opt-out clause after the 2024 season.

BREAKING: First baseman Rhys Hoskins and the Milwaukee Brewers are finalizing a two-year, $34 million contract with an opt-out after the first season, sources tell ESPN.

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) January 24, 2024

Hoskins’ future with the Phillies began to look bleak after the team committed to Bryce Harper playing at first base.

Hoskins missed the entirety of 2023 while recovering from a torn ACL in his left knee. The 30-year-old had a batting average of .246 with an OPS of .794 during the 2022 campaign before his injury. Hoskins’ 30 home runs ranked second on the team behind Kyle Schwarber.

There was some buzz that Hoskins would be healthy enough to return during the Phillies’ recent playoff run. However, he was unable to suit up before Philadelphia was eliminated in the NLCS.

The Brewers struggled to find stability at first base last season. Rowdy Tellez started the most games at first base for Milwaukee in 2023. Tellez, who’s now with the Pittsburgh Pirates, batted .215 with 13 home runs in 105 games played for the Brewers last year.

If Hoskins can return to form after recovering from injury, he may become the dependable first baseman the Brewers have been searching for.