by Bill Passonno | CBSSports.com (5/12/2013) The 2013 campaign was viewed as a trial run for Phillies catching prospect Tommy Joseph to determine if he could handle the rigors of an everyday job at the Triple-A level with the possibility of taking over behind the plate for Philadelphia next season. But Joseph, who is regarded as the team's top hitting prospect by MLB.com, has been sidelined by a concussion since May 4, stunting his progression for now.
"He's fine mentally," director of player development Joe Jordan told the Philadelphia Inquirer. "We have to get him past the concussion and get him back out there. I think he's just ready to get healthy and get back out there."
Joseph, who turns only 22 in July, struggled offensively and defensively before landing on the minor-league disabled list. He clubbed three homers and drove in 14 RBI in his first 21 games, but posted only a .209 batting average and .264 on-base percentage. Joseph also was charged with nine passed balls.
Phillies set to test Tommy Joseph
by Bill Passonno | CBSSports.com (4/1/2013) After emerging from a logjam of prospects behind the plate, catcher Tommy Joseph is poised to begin the season at Triple-A Lehigh Valley as the Phillies seek to determine his success level at the minors' highest level. At just 21, Joseph will be one of the youngest players in the International League, but he is already considered the team's top position prospect by MLB.com.
He made a solid impression during spring training -- his first with Philadelphia -- and produced a glowing .462 batting average with four extra-base hits in just six games. With a positive stride during his debut in Triple-A this year, the Phillies could slot Joseph as a starting candidate for the 2014 campaign.
by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com (2/4/2013) MLB.com reports Phillies director of player development Joe Jordan said Philadelphia is confident in the abilities of catcher prospect Tommy Joseph, who was acquired in the Hunter Pence trade with the Giants last summer. "He's got a chance to be an offensive catcher. It's hard to find," Jordan said of Joseph. "The thing I like the most about him -- when you get past the physical ability -- is that I think the kid has a lot of pride. I think he wants to be a good player. I think he wants to be a good defensive player, which is very important. And I believe in the guy's offensive ability. He's going to be a hitter."
