In an offseason that was set up to pursue some of the game’s best shortstops, the Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly in agreement with free agent shortstop Trea Turner on a contract. Jeff Passan was first to report the deal:
It is a 11-year, $300 million deal with a full no-trade clause. Kiley McDaniel was first to report the details of the contract:
The Phillies are coming off a season in which they won 87 games and the National League. Adding Turner only makes them better, and with Bryce Harper likely out until the middle of next year after having Tommy John Surgery, he can help provide offense during Harper’s absence.
As a hitter, there isn’t much Turner can’t do. He has the ability to hit for both contact and power. In 2022, he hit .298/.343/.466 with 39 doubles, 21 home runs, and a 121 OPS+. He also scored 101 runs and has consistently been one of the fastest players in the big leagues since his debut in 2015.
His contact numbers were down in 2022 when compared to previous years, but he will still be able to bring much-needed contact to the Phillies’ lengthy lineup. They struck out 71 times in the World Series, which is the most all-time.
Turner will likely hit leadoff or second in the lineup during his first season in Philadelphia.
The two-time All-Star isn’t known for his defense, but he should be able to provide the Phillies with league-average defense for now.
Turner will now come back to the N.L. East, after beginning his career with the Washington Nationals, and try to help the Phillies do what they were just two wins away from in 2022: win the World Series.
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