DENVER – Carlos Santana had not played an inning at third base in more than four years before he found himself standing there last month. By moving the first baseman across the diamond, manager Gabe Kapler was able to bring Rhys Hoskins in from left field in favor of an optimal defense.
It was a creative move and it has become an almost regular occurrence over the course of the season. Santana started at third Monday night for the 10th time this month. But this switch could have repercussions past September. If the Phillies add a free-agent outfielder – such as Bryce Harper – then moving Hoskins to first base would be a smart move.