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Source: MLB.com
Summary
Trea Turner had his worst season in 2026, according to Phillies president Dave Dombrowski, who said Turner must improve defensively at shortstop. Turner posted -17 defensive runs saved (DRS) and career-worst offensive stats, including a .242 batting average and -0.1 WAR. Dombrowski acknowledged Turner’s potential but stressed the need for improvement. Turner, under a $300 million contract, has not played a position other than shortstop since 2021. The Phillies named Don Mattingly their new manager after a 9-19 start.
Our Reading
The game followed a familiar script.
Turner’s 2026 was a disaster.
Defensively, he was a liability.
Offensively, he was worse than ever.
Philly’s front office is giving him a final chance to prove himself.
Author: Evan Null
Turner’s 2026 Was a Disaster
Trea Turner had his worst season in 2026, posting career-worst numbers across the board. His defensive runs saved (DRS) at shortstop was -17, the third time in four years he finished with a negative, double-digit DRS. His offensive stats were equally dismal, with a .242 batting average, a .297 on-base percentage, and a .378 slugging percentage. His 81 OPS+ and -0.1 WAR were the lowest of his career.
Dombrowski Was Honest
Phillies president Dave Dombrowski was blunt about Turner’s performance. He told reporters that Turner must improve at shortstop, or he wouldn’t be able to play there. Dombrowski said Turner understands the message and is determined to show he can play. He also mentioned that Turner’s offensive success in 2025 was a surprise, but the team needs to fix the issues from 2026.
Turner’s Contract and Positional Flexibility
Turner is in the fourth year of an 11-year, $300 million contract with the Phillies. He has only played shortstop since 2021, though he has experience at second base and center field. The Phillies have not ruled out moving him to another position if needed, but Dombrowski emphasized that Turner must prove he can play shortstop at a high level.
Mattingly Hired as Full-Time Manager
The Phillies named Don Mattingly their full-time manager after he took over as interim manager following Rob Thomson’s firing. Mattingly led the team to a 79-55 record after taking over but was eliminated in the Wild Card Series by the Braves. The team has not advanced past the NL Division Series since 2023.
Philly’s Playoff Struggles Continue
The Phillies have not advanced past the NL Division Series since 2023, despite having a strong roster. Their struggles in 2026 were highlighted by Turner’s poor performance and the team’s inability to find consistency. With Mattingly as manager and Dombrowski pushing for improvement, the pressure is on for 2027.
