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2018 Phillies Prospects Countdown: #23 First Baseman Darick Hall

Darick Hall, image- Jay Floyd
The driving force behind the Class A Lakewood BlueClaws' lineup, Darick Hall was named the South Atlantic League's Most Valuable player for the 2017 season.  The first baseman, deservedly, has gained recognition among the Phillies' talented crop of rising prospects.

A 14th round draft selection in 2016, the Dallas Baptist product made his professional debut with the short-season Class A Williamsport Crosscutters that same year.  In 57 games there, Hall tallied a .282 batting average with nine home runs and 29 RBI.

The left-handed hitter moved up to full-season Class A in 2017 and with Lakewood sported a .272 average with 28 doubles, a triple, 27 home runs (team record) and 96 RBI (another team record) in 114 games.

Hall would close out his 2017 campaign with a week in the Class A Advanced Florida State League playing for Clearwater.  In seven games with the Threshers, the six-foot-four 236-pounder posted a .231 batting average with a pair of homers and five RBI.

The clean-up hitter's presence in the lineup for a Lakewood club that had several teenagers that were learning what minor league life was like playing everyday, traveling up and down the east coast, was crucial.  Hall, who played three seasons of college ball helped his teammates learn what the professional athlete life is all about. Hall is a guy that can lead by example and he did just that all year long.

Aside from his missle-like long balls, the 22-year-old's daily work and preparation are what impressed his coaches most.

From a family where two of his uncles (Ladd Hall and Shane Hall) were drafted by big league teams, Hall feels structure is key to his game.  Everything from diet and practice to making a game plan and following through have been critical to his success.

On defense, Hall is solid.  He played a majority of his games last year at first base, mixing in some playing time as the BlueClaws' designated hitter as well.

Look for Hall to open the season back with Clearwater, but in may not be long before he's making his Double-A debut.

Keep track of this year's Phillies prospect countdown at this link.

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