Michael Saunders and Howie Kendrick were expected to provide solid, veteran leadership this season for the Phillies in the outfield, but things do not always go as planned. As it turned out, Daniel Nava emerged as the steady veteran presence and is enjoying one of his best seasons in the Major Leagues.
Saunders never seemed to fit in, couldn’t find his stroke at the plate and was gone before the end of June after batting just .200 with six home runs. Kendrick has played well, but has missed much more time than he’s played, limiting his effectiveness and veteran presence.