Once labeled by fans as “the next Chase Utley,” Bryson Stott has spent several seasons hovering on the edge of a true breakout. Now, after years of steady development in the Philadelphia Phillies’ middle infield, the longtime breakout candidate may finally be ready to deliver on that promise.
Stott burst onto the scene in his second season with a .280 average and a .747 OPS, but he hasn’t quite matched that production since. Entering the 2025 campaign, the focus shifted to improving his plate discipline, and the results were encouraging. His chase rate dropped below 30 percent for the first time since his rookie year, falling to 23.3 percent, while he also saw a career-high number of pitches per plate appearance. Even so, his overall line settled at .257 with a .719 OPS.
Now 28, Stott has remained a reliable presence defensively at second base, though his offense has fluctuated from hot streaks to prolonged slumps. Still, his flashes of impact often surfacing in October suggest there’s more upside left. If the offensive adjustments he made last season carry over, 2026 could be the year everything clicks.
A Simple Mechanical Change May Be the Difference
According to MLB.com’s Todd Zolecki, Stott made a subtle but meaningful tweak to his stance in 2025 by lowering his hand position. That adjustment proved pivotal. Prior to the change, he posted a .234 average with a .636 OPS. Afterward, his second-half numbers jumped to a .294 average and an .855 OPS.
At his best, whether leading off or hitting lower in the order, Stott tends to attack early in the count. The numbers support that approach he hit .366 when swinging at the first pitch. However, his success may ultimately hinge on balancing that aggressiveness with patience. When he took the first pitch last season, his OPS soared to .948.
Looking ahead to 2026, Stott could benefit further from MLB’s new ABS challenge system, as data suggests he’s among the Phillies hitters most likely to gain from more accurate ball-and-strike calls.
Each season brings growth, and 2025 showed tangible progress at the plate. If Stott continues to trust his patience and refined approach, the payoff could be significant. That said, this upcoming season looms large. With top prospect Aidan Miller waiting in the wings armed with advanced offensive skills and the defensive versatility to handle second base Stott faces real pressure to solidify his role. With Trea Turner entrenched at shortstop, the Phillies will naturally lean on their Gold Glove-caliber second baseman, and 2026 could very well become the best season of Bryson Stott’s career.
Leave a Reply