For the second consecutive offseason, MLB free agency is dominated by a star-studded shortstop class that includes Trea Turner, Carlos Correa, Xander Bogaerts and Dansby Swanson.
Turner is coming off an All-Star campaign with the Los Angeles Dodgers that saw him hit .298/.343/.466 with 39 doubles, four triples, 21 home runs and 100 RBI. He was extended the $19.65 million qualifying offer for the 2023 season but predictably declined it in search of a long-term contract.
Turner and the Dodgers have reportedly maintained contact, but he is not considered likely to re-sign with the organization. There have been rumblings the Florida native prefers to return to the East Coast.
According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, the Philadelphia Phillies have emerged as the favorites to sign Turner due to their geographical location and his close friendship with Bryce Harper:
“I think right now the Phillies are viewed as the favorites. There are other teams involved, certainly, but the fit for Philadelphia is there. They are in a situation where they just made it to the World Series, they might be one player away from being able to win it all in 2023, and Trea Turner is said by many to have a preference to play for a team that trains in Florida. Of course, a native Floridian, a very close friend of Bryce Harper, began his career in the National League East with the Nationals, won a World Series championship with the Nats.
“I think the Giants are involved in the shortstop market, but it’s somewhat contingent on what happens with No. 99. Whereas for the Phillies, Trea Turner, according to sources, is their top priority.”
The Phillies have been connected to Turner since the start of the offseason, and an earlier report indicated they are the most likely landing spot for the 29-year-old.
Other clubs that have been linked to Turner include the Seattle Mariners, San Francisco Giants, Atlanta Braves and Chicago Cubs.
If Turner signs elsewhere, the Dodgers would receive a compensation pick after the fourth round of the 2023 MLB Draft.
Dodgers could pivot to other top shortstops if Trea Turner departs
Should Turner depart for another team, the Dodgers could shift their focus to the other top free-agent shortstops. L.A. reportedly has shown interest in Correa, Bogaerts and Swanson, and also would consider a trade for Willy Adames of the Milwaukee Brewers.
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