During their 2022 postseason run that ended just short in a World Series loss, the Phillies gained notice for the raucous home crowds and atmosphere that was cultivated at Citizens Bank Park.
This was not lost on new Phillies shortstop Trea Turner.
During Thursday’s introductory press conference, Turner spoke about watching the games from home, and how it factored into his decision to sign an 11-year, $300 million contract with the Phillies.
“You could hear it through your TV how loud the stadium was”, Turner said. “I played here many, many times, but I don’t know if I’ve ever seen it like that and rightfully so. It definitely came into consideration.”
Beyond the atmosphere of the games, Turner noted how evident the team’s chemistry was during the postseason run.
“I think you can see [the team chemistry] from afar, too – playing against them you can see it. You can see it on the TV as well. It’s very noticeable and it’s special when that happens.”
Turner figures to fit into the clubhouse well, given his close relationship with Bryce Harper that dates back to their time in Washington together. He cited conversations with Harper, in addition to former teammate Kyle Schwarber and hitting coach Kyle Long, as further informing the chemistry in the clubhouse.
It also helps that playing deep into October isn’t a foreign concept to Trea Turner. In 2019, he played a key role in the Washington Nationals World Series Championship. During the last two seasons, he has played on Dodger teams that were heavy favorites to win the National League, although they did not make it past the NLCS either year.
The Phillies, led by president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski and managing partner John Middleton, have made winning a priority. With the signings of Turner, Taijuan Walker and Matt Strahm earlier this week, the Phillies are once again in the luxury tax with a payroll north of $240 million as they look for the team to make a deep playoff run once again.
For Turner, the pressure is on to help the 2022 NL Champions replicate their success in the seasons to come. And it is not a challenge Turner will shy away from.
“I think playing on a winning team was really important and an organization that wants to try to win championships for not just one year but for a long time. […] It was a factor, so to go along with that, you’ve got to perform and you’ve got to live up to those standards”
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