The Philadelphia Phillies are going to give Domonic Brown another chance to succeed this season. As to whether he will be able to do so is the question.
Delmon Young is still recovering from an ankle injury. So, he's likely to start the season on the disabled list. That means that Brown and John Mayberry are the likely default right field options.
Brown's path to the major leagues was relatively smooth as he was moving through the minor leagues. His tag as a “five tool” prospect may, or may not have been appropriate.
Even the most skilled scout isn't capable of projecting how every “prospect” will perform beyond their current baseball level. Skill assessment is equally subjective and strategic.
The focus on strategy will be key this season, because Brown could still be dealt to a willing recipient if he proves himself this season. Then again, it would be questionable to trade him if he does play well.
This affable young man will need to play on a regular basis, similar to the last two months of the 2012 season, in order to demonstrate his major league worth this year. He must also avoid taking any injury detours during spring training and the first few months of the season.
With whatever develops, this Phillies' outfielder has the potential to be a decent player if not necessarily a superstar. A competent performance at the plate and in the field should help Brown to keep his spot on the 25-man roster this year.
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