The Philadelphia Phillies added a key piece to their starting lineup this offseason in shortstop Trea Turner.
Their lineup already included stars such as Bryce Harper, JT Realmuto, Rhys Hoskins, Nick Castellanos, and Kyle Schwarber
But with the addition of Turner, the defending National League champions are prepared to make another run to the World Series in 2023.
Phillies announcer Tom McCarthy stopped by MLB Network on Friday to discuss Turner’s addition.
McCarthy talked about how Turner and second baseman Bryson Stott are meshing as a middle-infield duo, as well as what the Phillies lineup will look like at full strength later on in the season.
“Those two guys are trying to get as much work in now as possible.”@TMacPhils on how Trea Turner and Bryson Stott are meshing as a middle infield tandem and what this @Phillies lineup may look like at full strength.@alannarizzo | #HighHeat | #SpringTraining pic.twitter.com/K4LKGJs64o
—MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) March 3, 2023
For context, Harper tore his UCL last season and was limited to designated hitter duties.
After the World Series, the slugger had Tommy John surgery, which is going to keep him on the shelf for several months.
In fact, Harper isn’t expected to return until closer to July.
However, the addition of Turner gives them an extra power bat in their lineup.
McCarthy notes that Turner and Stott have become fast friends at spring training and are prepared to work together as the team’s middle-infield duo.
Stott shifted from shortstop to second base in order to make room for Turner and replace the departed Jean Segura.
McCarthy also noted that he believes Turner will have the leadoff spot for the Phillies all season long, even when Harper returns, but that it will create a lot of flexibility in Philadelphia’s lineup with the top five hitters.
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JT Realmuto Seems To Be Fresh For 2023
