Philadelphia Phillies sign Josh Harrison. Reported via Twitter by the New York Post’s Jon Heyman, it is a one-year, $2 million deal. Harrison’s agency, MSM Sports, also announced the news.
Super Utility Player
The 35-year-old super-utility player can play both infield and outfield positions. Mostly noted for playing second and third base along with right field, he has played every position except catcher. Yes, he even pitched in four games.
High Energy Player
Last season with the Chicago White Sox he hit .256 with seven home runs and 27 RBI. He also provided veteran leadership for a young team. Harrison is not seen as an everyday player at this point in his career, although he is a high-energy bench guy who gets both the players and fans going. He runs the bases well, provides some offense, and will provide coverage at just about every position.
Second Time Signing With Philadelphia
The Philadelphia Phillies sign Josh Harrison after Chicago declined a 2023 club option following the season, which made him a free agent. This is the second time he has been in Philadelphia. However, after signing a Minor League deal with the Phillies prior to the 2020 season, he was released before the pandemic-shortened campaign began and played in no games.
Since that release, Harrison prolonged his career with the Washington Nationals. He was then traded to the Oakland Athletics in 2021, then White Sox last year.
Solid Move
The move for the Philadelphia Phillies to sign Josh Harrison is a solid one since he will be a positive influence in an already strong clubhouse. He has always been called a tremendous teammate to have. Harrison will get used as a right-handed hitter and a late-inning defensive replacement and get an occasional start. He will serve as a utility infielder backing up second baseman Bryson Stott and third baseman Alec Bohm on most occasions.
Outlook
Harrison is entering his 13th MLB season with a lifetime .272 average. Always levelheaded while offering a veteran perspective on every aspect of the game, it’s the leadership that the Phillies will see from him. This is a guaranteed contract, so the Phillies have every intention of Harrison being on the big-league roster. In other words, he does not have to win a spot during Spring Training.
This organization wants to get back to the World Series after losing to the Houston Astros last season. Having a high-energy leader like Harrison in the mix with their other veterans and their younger talent– and who knows, the Phillies might be back there again in 2023.
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