Dombrowski Places Trea Turner on Defensive Notice

Philadelphia Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski has issued a clear ultimatum to Trea Turner regarding his role at shortstop. Following a meeting on Tuesday, Dombrowski told reporters that Turner must improve defensively or face a position change, stating it is "mandatory" that Turner does not repeat his 2026 defensive performance.

Turner's 2026 campaign was marked by significant struggles. According to Sportsnet, the 33-year-old committed a league-high 21 errors and tied for an MLB low with minus-17 defensive runs saved. MLB reporting notes Turner posted -10 Outs Above Average (OAA) in 2026, ranking 39th among 42 qualified shortstops. Offensively, Turner also faced a career-worst year, batting .242 with 19 home runs and 58 RBIs, resulting in a career-low minus-0.1 bWAR, per Sportsnet.

While Turner prefers the infield, Dombrowski indicated the team could move him to the outfield if he fails to improve. Other internal options include Bryson Stott, as well as prospects Aidan Miller and Bryan Rincon, who are ranked second and fourth respectively in the Phillies' system, though MLB notes the latter two are more likely midseason candidates than Opening Day starters. The Phillies may also seek outside help.

To facilitate these improvements, the Phillies hired former Mets manager Carlos Mendoza as third base and infield coach, following the firing of Bobby Dickerson, per MLB. Turner, who is in the fourth year of an 11-year, $300 million contract signed in Dec. 2022, reportedly took full accountability for his season and is working on his swing, according to Sportsnet.