For years, there’s been anticipation surrounding Alec Bohm for a breakout season, yet it eluded him in 2022 and 2023. While he performed well, contributing to two successful Phillies campaigns, neither season amounted to the anticipated breakout.
However, this year has seen Bohm kick off with a strong performance. While it’s premature to declare this as his breakout season, his impressive start warrants acknowledgment. Over the past couple of weeks, Bohm has been on a hot streak, currently boasting a 15-game hitting streak, matching his career best. Notably, his proficiency with runners in scoring position continues, with impressive statistics of .455/.525/.758 in such scenarios.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Bohm’s performance this season is his wins above replacement (WAR), which has already surpassed his previous career high. With a current WAR of 1.9 in 32 games, Bohm has exceeded his WAR totals from previous seasons. The primary contributor to his elevated WAR this year is his offensive output, marked by increased walk rates and enhanced slugging abilities, making him a well-rounded threat at the plate.
Currently, Bohm boasts impressive stats with a batting average of .362, an on-base percentage of .432, and a slugging percentage of .586. His batting average ranks second among qualified MLB hitters, with his on-base percentage and slugging percentage also placing high in the league rankings. Additionally, he ranks second only to Shohei Ohtani in doubles, showcasing his power at the plate.
In terms of wins above replacement (WAR), Bohm finds himself tied for fourth in the majors alongside Bobby Witt Jr., a player many consider a burgeoning superstar, if not already one. The trio of players ahead of Bohm in WAR includes Mookie Betts, Juan Soto, and Gunnar Henderson, all renowned as among the best in baseball.
Additionally, Bohm ranks near the top of the league in RBIs, with his 30 RBIs placing him second, trailing only Marcell Ozuna’s 32. Notably, this total marks the highest ever recorded by a Phillies hitter in the opening month of the season, surpassing Ryan Howard’s previous record of 27 set back in March/April of 2011.
Bohm’s offensive improvements are attributed in part to his increased selectivity at the plate. He’s displaying better pitch recognition, evidenced by a reduced chase rate and swinging less overall compared to last year. Specifically, his chase rate has decreased from 30% to 22.5%, and his swing rate on pitches in the strike zone has slightly dropped from 68.9% to 66.8%. While these changes may seem minor, Bohm’s emphasis on driving only hittable pitches indicates a more discerning approach, aiming to avoid weakly hit balls and resulting outs.
Regarding defense, which contributes to his WAR, Bohm’s performance at third base has been approximately league average, with -2 defensive runs saved and 0 outs above average, as per FanGraphs.
Overall, Bohm’s start to the season has been remarkable. Achieving a new career-high in WAR within the first month underscores his significance as the Phillies’ most impactful hitter thus far, regardless of how one values WAR.
