The Philadelphia Phillies are reevaluating their strategy after a disappointing NLDS loss to the New York Mets. While the team has undeniable talent, Dave Dombrowski and Rob Thomson have yet to find the right formula to lead Philadelphia to a World Series victory. With their competitive window potentially closing, the pressure is mounting.
Almost everyone deserves some criticism following the Mets series, particularly the bullpen, which struggled during the playoffs. However, this seems more like a fluke than a trend, as Jeff Hoffman, Matt Strahm, and Orion Kerkering excelled in the regular season. Many fans point to the team’s lackluster offense as a major factor in their early exit.
After a strong start to the season, the Phillies fell into uncharacteristic slumps post-All-Star break. In the postseason, the Mets’ pitching staff effectively neutralized Philadelphia’s talented lineup. The outfield has been a weak spot throughout the year, prompting potential lineup adjustments and depth upgrades ahead of the 2025 season.
One frequent suggestion involves moving All-Star shortstop Trea Turner, whose defensive performance has declined since he joined the team. Although his bat remains effective, his glove and arm have been subpar. Turner finished the 2024 season in the 25th percentile for outs above average and the 32nd percentile for arm strength, making him a liability on defense.
The Phillies’ front office typically prioritizes offense over defense, but a position change for Turner could be beneficial. The main obstacle is his substantial $300 million contract.
While the Phillies aren’t likely to bench Turner, shifting him to a different position might help everyone involved. Playing him in the outfield or at second base would reduce his defensive pressure, while Bryson Stott could take over shortstop, significantly enhancing the infield’s defense. Even a small adjustment like this could improve Philadelphia’s standing in the National League.
Moving Turner to the outfield is particularly appealing, as it would address the team’s inconsistent offensive output from that position. This would allow Turner and Nick Castellanos to bolster the outfield, with Brandon Marsh, Johan Rojas, and Austin Hays sharing centerfield duties. Alternatively, if the Phillies trade for a top centerfielder like Luis Robert Jr., it could create a strong outfield trio.
This shift could also pave the way for top prospect Aidan Miller to join the major league roster. Although Dombrowski has indicated that Miller might not be ready yet, a position change for Turner would at least open up opportunities. Miller is an impressive hitter who can play either shortstop or second base, depending on the team’s needs.
If Miller isn’t prepared, moving Turner to the outfield would allow the Phillies to explore high-quality infield additions this offseason, like Willy Adames or Gleyber Torres, along with potential outfield enhancements. Overall, having Turner not tied to shortstop would provide more flexibility.
If Miller isn’t prepared, moving Turner to the outfield would allow the Phillies to explore high-quality infield additions this offseason, like Willy Adames or Gleyber Torres, along with potential outfield enhancements. Overall, having Turner not tied to shortstop would provide more flexibility.
However, as Jim Salisbury suggests, Turner’s $300 million contract likely comes with the expectation that he will remain Philadelphia’s shortstop. He turned down a more lucrative offer from the Padres to play with friends in Philadelphia, so it’s likely he values the prestige of the position.
If Turner is amenable to a change, it’s crucial for the Phillies to act on it, and the responsibility falls on Rob Thomson to persuade him. As the manager, Thomson will need to make a convincing case.
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