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Turner must play better shortstop in '27 or change positions, Dombrowski says

Philadelphia Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski delivered a clear ultimatum to shortstop Trea Turner following the team’s disappointing exit in the NL Wild Card Series. Turner, who struggled defensively in 2026 with a -10 Outs Above Average ranking (39th among qualified shortstops), was told he must elevate his play at the position by 2027 or risk being shifted to another role.

The two met privately at Citizens Bank Park, where Dombrowski emphasized the need for significant improvement, noting Turner’s defensive metrics had fluctuated wildly over the past four seasons, from +17 OAA in 2025 to -6 in 2023. Turner, who prefers staying in the infield, has expressed confidence in his ability to return to his 2025 form, but the Phillies are already eyeing alternatives, including prospects Aidan Miller and Bryan Rincon, as well as outfield conversions if his defense doesn’t improve.

The team also made a coaching change, hiring former Mets manager Carlos Mendoza to replace Bobby Dickerson as infield coach, adding another layer of scrutiny for Turner as he aims to rebound from a career-low offensive season (.242 batting average, 19 home runs, and an 81 OPS+).

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