5/28/26 : Spotlight - Outfielder Jonathan Hogart

Jonathan Hogart was signed by the Phillies as an un-drafted free agent on 7/22/25 from Murray State University. He played two seasons for the Racers after spending 2023 as a member of the Louisiana Tech squad and the prior two years at the junior college level for Wabash Valley College. He graduated from Madisonville-North Hopkins High School in Madisonville, Kentucky.

Jonathan was part of the amazing 2025 season for Murray State, in fact he set an NCAA record for most lead off home runs in a single season with eight and tied the school’s single season home run record with twenty-two. His .700 slugging percentage made him the first player in school history to do it with more than 250 at bats - he had 260 - another school record.

The very pleasant young man had quite the year and seemed a lock to be drafted however when that didn’t occur the Phillies called almost immediately after the draft concluded with a contract offer. Jonathan reported to draft mini-camp in Clearwater at the complex where along with fellow draft and post draft signees he learned the basics and expectations of the Phillies Player Development process and the charter of what it means to “Protect the Standard”.  He was activated on 8/5/25 with the Clearwater Threshers and appeared in twenty-four regular season games and two post season games putting up very respectable numbers including hitting his first professional home run. This past fall and winter Jonathan participated in two High Performance Camps, Spring Mini-Camp and Minor League Spring Training.

This spring he was slowed by a knee injury incurred during one of the spring training games at the complex. He opened the season with the Threshers but was placed on the IL shortly thereafter (4/11/26) and didn’t return till 4/25/26). The month of May has been a big one for him posting a .377/.507/.717 slash line in 19 games thus far with 5 doubles, 2 triples, 3 home runs and 15 RBIs! Needless to say he’s recovered from the knee injury set back and all engines are go once again.

Today I had the chance to correspond with Jonathan before tonight’s Threshers contest. Following is our interaction.

I had the honor of meeting your parents this spring at training camp - how important has family been to your baseball development? Do you converse often with your dad in particular on your approach and practice regiment?

“My parents are huge in my career. My dad and I talk all the time about what’s going good and bad and what adjustments need to be made in addition to my discussions on those things with the coaches.”

You set an NCAA record for most leadoff home runs in a single season last year and have hit seven home runs thus far in pro ball - do you make a conscious effort to drive the ball in the air or is it a hit the ball hard and see where it goes approach?

“It’s more of a hit it hard and just compete at the plate. I’m just wanting to stack quality at bats.”

I’m sure that not being drafted was a disappointment however the Phillies reached out and offered a deal afterwards - can you describe the emotions felt from being left out of the draft to then getting a call from the Phillies and signing your first pro contract?

“The call was absolutely amazing!! A bunch of tears were shed because I honestly thought my career was most likely over.”

Every player in pro ball has times of struggle - April this year was a slow start for you with an injury incurred however May has been a “red hot” one - what adjustments have you made and how do you maintain your composure and focus in both good and bad stretches?

“April was pretty slow yes. I banged my knee up and was out for two weeks and that was right when I started feeling good at the plate. It kind of felt like I had to restart the season to find my groove again. The coaches were super instrumental in that by guiding me and reassuring me as well. But to maintain focus and composure is just understanding that this is a blessing to be able to do and also reminding myself of previous success.”

You grew up in an area where the St Louis Cardinals were the closest major league team - they’ve long had a player development mantra that works called the “Cardinals Way” which focuses on playing the game “right” and hard. When I watch you play I see those elements in your game - is that something that was ingrained in you from an early age and part of your focus each day?

“My dad always instilled it into me to play the game hard and respect the game. So if I don’t play it hard I feel like I’m letting him down and that’s something I never want to do.”

This is your first year in pro ball - how is it different than playing collegiately? The Phillies have an established charter of conduct entitled “Protect the Standard” which is introduced to each new signing group every summer - what stands out to you about the Phillies approach to player development?

“First year of pro ball is a lot different than college. It’s just about every single day where college is roughly four days a week. I love the every day part and just really enjoy being at the yard daily. The Phillies development is great. They really make sure everyone grasps what is being taught and what is expected. They hold us accountable and expect the best from us as they should.”

Lastly are you a goal setter? If so what are your general targets for this season? If not what expectations do you have both near and longer term for your career?

“I’m not a crazy goal setter because I don’t like getting caught up in numbers and stuff. As far as expectations, I just want to have a very long and healthy career and be a big leaguer.”

I thank Jonathan for taking the time to interact and wish him continuing success in his pro career. It truly doesn’t matter what round you’re drafted or even if un-drafted it’s all about taking advantage of the opportunities provided. This young man is doing so and has the attitude, skill set, support and acumen to advance up the ladder. That’s good stuff!

Happy Day, Happy Baseball ⚾️

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