When the Philadelphia Phillies started the free agency period, they knew they needed a star shortstop.
They did not wait long to sign the best free agent available at the position, Trea Turner.
The former Washington National and Los Angeles Dodger comes over to the Phillies on an 11-year contract.
But, with a lofty contract comes lofty expectations, which is what Turner will have in 2023.
MLB.com made predictions on who would be each team’s best player in 2023.
For the Phillies, it was Turner.
Your favorite team’s best player in 2023 will be ________. pic.twitter.com/3V5bcpwikW
— MLB (@MLB) January 4, 2023
This should not come as a surprise due to Bryce Harper missing the first few months of the season.
Turner will step into a role at the top of the order and should provide immediate all-star caliber numbers.
He is a multi-faceted player who is best known for his contact and speed.
The 29-year-old shortstop still has his best baseball ahead of him, and now has a forever home.
Turner is familiar with the NL East having spent his first seven years in the division.
It will be interesting to see how Turner responds to the pressure of playing in Philadelphia.
Every season the Phillies will be expected to compete for a World Series.
But, that should not bother Turner as he was a part of the Nationals team that won the fall classic in 2019.
The Phillies will need the very best of Turner this season if they are hoping to make another deep playoff run.
His durability will also be crucial, last season he played 160 games with the Dodgers.
Also, the new pickoff rule (only two pickoff attempts per plate appearance) should help Turner tremendously.
He should be able to steal plenty of bases and surpass the 27 he had last year.
Turner will be the most talented player on the Phillies until Harper returns, and he will need to produce like it.
