The Philadelphia Phillies secured an impressive victory on Wednesday against one of MLB’s top teams, with starter Jesús Luzardo delivering a much-needed strong performance.
After surrendering 20 runs over his previous two outings, Luzardo rebounded by limiting the red-hot Cubs to just one run over six innings. His outing came at a crucial time for the Phillies, who are dealing with the loss of star slugger Bryce Harper, now on the injured list due to a lingering wrist injury.
Filling in at first base was 25-year-old prospect Otto Kemp, recently called up to the majors. Kemp contributed with a hit and a run in the win, and the Phillies confirmed he will play a key role in their plans to cover for Harper moving forward.
“The plan is for Otto Kemp to play mostly first base moving forward,” according to Matt Gelb of The Athletic. “Phillies want Alec Bohm back at third base. Kemp went through Bobby Dickerson Camp this week.”
Gelb was referring to Phillies infield coach Bobby Dickerson, who has been putting Kemp through his paces at first base. Kemp has more experience at third base in his minor-league career, but has played first as well. If the Phillies feel confident he can man that position with Harper out, that gives the team flexibility with Bohm and Edmundo Sosa, who deserves some at-bats as well.
Ultimately, though, the team will want Harper back as soon as possible. When he does return, it’s likely that Kemp will be sent back to the minors. But if he continues to impress in his big-league stint, the Phillies could mull some more interesting options with their lineup.
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