Philadelphia Phillies rumors: Early favorites to sign Trea Turner next winter

If you followed the swirling Philadelphia Phillies rumors from the winter, you will have realized how accurate many of them were. Nick Castellanos and Kyle Schwarber emerged as two favorites to land in Philly alongside Kris Bryant—someone very familiar with Bryce Harper from their childhood.

There is now a new name entering the conversation of Phillies rumors with a connection to the 2021 NL MVP. He doesn’t know him from their younger days. Harper knows him from the Washington Nationals.

Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Trea Turner will hit free agency this offseason. According to these exciting Phillies rumors, it’s Harper’s team that is viewed as a favorite to sign him.

The latest Philadelphia Phillies rumors say Trea Turner is likely to end up reuniting with Bryce Harper.

There will, once again, be a lot of really good shortstops available in free agency this offseason. The Phillies refrained from signing any of the guys last winter, instead buying big boppers. They may have been smart in doing so. Carlos Correa agreed to a short contract with an opt-out after the first year. Trevor Story hasn’t been all that great with the Boston Red Sox while Corey Seager has been worse with the Texas Rangers. Then there is Javier Baez who has completely disappeared with the Detroit Tigers.

The current front office regime has yet to reveal their poker face. They have a reputation for favoring power, not understanding the importance of defense, and taking risks on relief pitchers. It has been a running theme for this organization for several years regardless of the manager or general manager. The Phillies have been a flawed club and Turner can help fix some of those problems.

Turner is an obvious starting shortstop and leadoff hitter for the Phillies next year. His presence could also allow them to not pick up the option on Jean Segura with a plan of possibly looking to move Bryson Stott to second base. Stott still has a lot of promise ahead of him even if this season has started off slowly.

Meanwhile, Turner has solidified himself as one of the game’s best at the position. He has led the league hits for two straight seasons and was a batting champion at .328 last season. Turner wins games with hits, speed, and above-average defense.

Philadelphia shouldn’t be in the market to add a whole lot of offense to the team next season. Their focus needs to be on the pitching staff.

Turner is an exception. He does things other players on the current squad cannot. He fits perfectly by standing out.