Scott Kingery will be with the Phillies sooner than later (Brandon Apter/Sports Talk Philly)
The Phillies had yet another prospect be recocognized for his great contributions during the 2017 season. A day removed from being recognized at Citizens Bank Park for being the Phillies Paul Owens Award receipient, Scott Kingery was taking home more honors. Minor League Baseball announced Wednesday afternoon that Kingery has won a 2017 Minor League Baseball Rawlings Gold Glove Award.
Kingery played mostly second base in the Phillies system, but down the stretch appeared in two games at shortstop and four games at third base. Kingery made no errors at shortstop or third base and only six total for the season, giving him a .989 fielding percentage.
Kingery could conceivably start at second base for the Phillies to open the season, depending on what players are or are not moved this offseason. Or, the Phillies could hold Kingery at Triple-A for a few more at bats to open the season. If the Phillies hold Kingery until about May, they will control Kingery's contract for the remainder of the season and six future seasons.
Not a member of the 40-man roster just yet (and without a need to be this offseason), Kingery will probably still get a Spring Training invitation and a long look, no matter what. With prospects J.P. Crawford, Nick Williams, Jorge Alfaro and Rhys Hoskins already in the fold, Kingery will eventually boost a Phillies lineup that has already gotten much new life.
