The Philadelphia Phillies are surprising everyone this season with their strong supporting cast. Even though a few of their top players are sidelined, other teammates have stepped up and contributed on offense. Such team depth also shows how they don’t rely heavily on just one player and can handle injuries well.
Similarly, during an interview with Ken Rosenthal, Phillies star, Trea Turner spoke up about how his team has found ways to keep winning despite injuries to players like J.T. Realmuto, Bryce Harper, and Kyle Schwarber. Turner cleared the air saying that the team’s pitching efforts have played a role in their early success.
“So it’s been a team effort, but we got a good group,” shared Turner.
When discussing his return from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for five weeks, Turner also talked about how he worked on regaining his timing and staying prepared without needing a rehab assignment.
“I tried switching up, doing a lot of different things, keeping myself ready, keeping my eyes ready, and it’s paid off.”
“Our pitching keeps us in it every game. Starters, bullpen, everybody up and down.”
Trea Turner talks with @Ken_Rosenthal about how the Phillies keep winning despite the injuries on the team, and how he came back with no rehab assignment despite missing 5 weeks pic.twitter.com/eHdwMSgcfr
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) July 6, 2024
Speaking of which, Turner’s role has become highly crucial in the absence of players like Harper, Schwarber, and Realmuto from play.
Turner’s Emergence as a Leader in the Absence of Senior Players
Currently, Turner’s increased role involves taking on responsibility in offense which could lead to hitting with power, getting on base frequently, and setting up scoring chances for himself and his teammates.
As an MLB All-Star, the shortstop may also be offering guidance on the field motivating his teammates in critical moments, and setting an example with his defense and effort.
Given the absence of veteran players, Turner may need to adjust his batting strategy and focus on driving pitches for bases to compensate for the power missing from Harper and Schwarber. Moreover, if the team requires runners on base Turner could aim to steal bases to create opportunities for scoring provisions.
