KC Royals: Four players who have most to gain in 2020 spring training

Brett Phillips – Outfielder

Brett Phillips had significant struggles at the plate in 2019. Hopefully he takes full advantage of new instructs and insight from hitting coach Terry Bradshaw and hitting coordinator Drew Saylor this spring.

I don’t think there is anything wrong with Phillips’ swing, as he seemed to figure something out when he made adjustments in June and went on to hit .277/.408/.613 with five doubles, ten triples, and 13 home runs with 40 walks vs 52 strikeouts at AAA Omaha before being called-up.

What Phillips will need to work on and succeed with this spring is his approach at the plate. He’s always shown good plate discipline, but he needs to start going up to the plate with a plan to swing at pitches he’s identified in his pre-game preparations. Bradshaw and Saylor should be able to help him with that strategical approach during spring training.

If Phillips is able to start seeing some success at the plate, the Royals will have to increase his playing time, as he is an exciting defender capable of winning multiple Gold Glove awards. Phillips will need to find balance between his traditional patient approach and being more aggressive. If he figures it out at the plate, he could tap into his power and his speed/hustle/baserunning will make him an extra base machine.

The potential is there for an All-Star caliber player if Phillips finds an approach that works for him. He can provide plus on-base percentage and plus slugging numbers if he starts to make more contact.

Getting behind in the count has hurt Phillips so far in his career and it will be intriguing to see if he’s able to unlock his potential this spring. I expect big things from Brett Phillips in 2020 and I’m excited to watch him play.