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Phillies Slugger Looking To Channel Former All-Star

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Caleb Gebrewold | Last updated Mar 10, 2025 8:30 PM ET

Trea Turner has consistently been among the best hitters in baseball over the past decade, leading MLB in hits twice and batting average once. Only three players - Aaron Judge, Francisco Lindor, and Juan Soto - who debuted after the Philadelphia Phillies shortstop have accounted for more offensive wins above replacement.

While he has been among the best hitters at his position, metrics show that the 2019 World Series champion has struggled defensively since signing an 11-year, $300 million contract with the Phillies ahead of the 2023 season. Speaking on MLB Network, Turner shared how he wants to channel former two-time All-Star shortstop J.J. Hardy, stating:

Since I have been here in the last couple of years, I haven’t been as good as I wanted to be. I want to feel like I’m on autopilot. I want to look boring and want to be that. We discussed JJ Hardy a lot. I want to look like JJ Hardy. That’s kind of my goal this year. [h/t Essentially Sports]

Hardy was consistently among the best defensive shortstops in all of baseball during his 13-year career. He won three consecutive Gold Glove Awards between 2012 and 2014.

While Turner is among the most athletic players at his position, the results have not translated to the defensive side of the ball for the three-time All-Star. He has made changes to his mechanics as he looks to make improvements. There has been chatter of him changing positions, however, he will begin the 2025 season as the Phillies starting shortstop.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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