"One of the worst shortstops statistically" - Phillies analyst argues Trea Turner failed to lead as part of "Big 3" with Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber
The Philadelphia Phillies' season ended in a way they didn't want, and one Phillies insider believes Trea Turner is partly to blame. Renee Washington suggested Turner's disappointing season is why the Phillies couldn't get further in the postseason.
Her co-host Jamie Lynch acknowledged that Turner's overall stats, including batting average, on-base percentage and OPS, went up, but Washington said things didn't look good on the whole.
"It's basically a lifetime contract, and to see how much he struggled in his at-bats. ... In both seasons, he was one of the worst shortstops statistically in terms of errors across Major League Baseball."
She added that the team expected Turner, the No. 2 hitter in the lineup, to be excellent. She also mentioned the "Big Three" that never materialized with Turner, Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper this year.
The offense, which Turner was supposed to be a big part of, mostly stayed silent during its NLDS loss to the New York Mets. A lot of players struggled, but the expectations on Turner meant he was singled out more.
Dave Dombrowski highlights Trea Turner's defense
Trea Turner has made 30 errors in two seasons at shortstop, and his overall defensive metrics aren't great. Despite that, the Philadelphia Phillies don't seem to have plans to move him over.
President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski said, via FanSided:
“We rely on defensive metrics, but there’s also not a perfect way of describing the defensive aspects of the game as far as we know. He did not have, [he’s] not an outstanding defensive shortstop. He has good range, he makes really good plays at times.
"But he also makes too many errors at points, but he has improved, he’s worked hard. I wouldn't be surprised if he continues to improve despite his age.”
That's a strong vote of confidence from the primary decision-maker for the Phillies, so don't expect the team to move Turner to a new position any time soon.