Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Trea Turner is embracing the possibility of a new role in the batting order. Turner, who has primarily hit second during his tenure with the Phillies, could find himself leading off in 2025. Phillies manager Rob Thomson recently revealed that he is considering slotting Turner into the leadoff spot—a role he thrived in during his time with the Washington Nationals and Los Angeles Dodgers.
Turner, for his part, is open to the move. When asked about the potential lineup adjustment, he delivered a six-word response that caught fans’ attention: “I think it would be fun.”
Turner elaborated on his thoughts, acknowledging that while it would be an adjustment, he believes he can thrive in that role again.
“It would be a little different,” Turner told reporters, per the Phillies’ official website. “I haven’t done it for a few years now. Kinda get back to a little bit more speed.”
Last season, Turner exclusively hit second in the order. However, he did spend time in the leadoff spot early in 2023. Over the past two seasons, he has maintained strong offensive numbers, posting a .279 batting average with 47 home runs, 138 RBIs, and 49 stolen bases in 53 attempts.
Turner recognizes that hitting leadoff comes with certain strategic shifts.
“I think when you’re leading off, that label kind of puts a little bit of perspective on it, the way pitchers pitch you,” he explained. “Maybe slightly, I don’t want to say always. But a couple things change here or there, or situations change here or there.”
If Turner moves to the top of the order, it could lead to a shake-up in the Phillies’ lineup. Thomson suggested that Bryce Harper, Alec Bohm, and Kyle Schwarber would follow Turner in the batting order.
Turner’s track record as a leadoff hitter suggests he could thrive in the role. According to Baseball-Reference, Turner boasts a .302 batting average and an .836 OPS in 487 career games leading off. Meanwhile, when batting second, he owns a .292 average and an .821 OPS across 470 games.
With a World Series push in mind, the Phillies must consider every advantage. If the team believes that Turner’s speed and on-base ability at the top of the order improve their chances, expect to see him setting the tone for Philadelphia’s high-powered offense in 2025.
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