Hoskins predicts either Machado or Harper will sign with Phillies

Rhys Hoskins thinks a major reinforcement will join him in the heart of the Philadelphia Phillies' lineup in 2019.

With the Phillies tied to superstar free agents Manny Machado and Bryce Harper throughout the offseason, Hoskins is confident his club will get the job done eventually.

"I have a gut feeling that we'll get one of them," Hoskins told Scott Lauber of The Philadelphia Inquirer.

The Phillies have met with both players at different points during the offseason, and the team recently emerged as the clear favorite to sign Harper, though no deal appears imminent.

Philadelphia hasn't been quiet this winter after already signing closer David Robertson and outfielder Andrew McCutchen, and trading for Jean Segura. Landing either Machado or Harper would cement the offseason as a success in Hoskins' eyes.

"Adding a name like one of these two guys would add more credibility to what we’ve already done this offseason and maybe some fear within the division," Hoskins said.

After a disastrous September, the Phillies finished 2018 in third place in the National League East with an 80-82 record. The team has been eyeing upgrades at various positions to push for its first postseason berth since 2011.