Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Trea Turner faced yet another tough night as his struggles persisted during last night’s game against the Baltimore Orioles.
Turner, who was unstoppable during the World Baseball Classic, signed an 11-year, $300 million contract with Philadelphia – but has so far struggled mightily.
His latest misfortunes began in the top of the fifth inning when he botched a routine ground ball from the bat of Jorge Mateo, granting him his 12th error of the season.
Needless to say, the sloppy error brought out the Philly boo-birds…
The boo birds are out for Trea Turner after his second error of the game pic.twitter.com/r495fK8oXn
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) July 24, 2023
Fortunately for the Phillies, they managed to escape the inning without conceding any runs and retaliated by tying the game in the bottom of the fifth. However, Turner’s night went from bad to worse as he went down looking on a low strike that he vehemently disagreed with.
An animated argument followed between Turner and umpire Will Little, leading to Turner’s eventual ejection after he angrily tossed his equipment toward the bat boy.
Trea Turner just got rung up on a low strike call, then got ejected by the ump for tossing his gear towards the bat boy
He was NOT happy pic.twitter.com/SvWTEBuUiv
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) July 25, 2023
Reflecting on the night’s events, Turner was asked about the fans’ frustration with his lack of production.
Phillies shortstop Trea Turner was asked if he hears the noise from some frustrated fans who expect more from him. @KYWNewsradio pic.twitter.com/ynND95SOYX
— Dave Uram (@MrUram) July 25, 2023
While Turner’s struggles have been evident, his teammates and coaching staff remain optimistic that he will regain his form. With the team aiming to compete in the playoffs and build upon last season’s World Series appearance, positive contributions from Turner are much needed.
Teammate Bryce Harper said of Turner: “He will be ok. He is one of the best players in the league for a reason. He will get going. We trust in him to be the best. He will do that.”
Bryce Harper doesn’t feel Trea Turner’s ejection was warranted
“He will be ok. He is one of the best players in the league for a reason. He will get going. We trust in him to be the best. He will do that.” pic.twitter.com/fdHr5LTK40
— John Clark (@JClarkNBCS) July 25, 2023
Turner is way too good of a player to not get things turned around – or so you would think.
Regardless, if the Phillies are going to make a serious postseason run, they’re going to need him.
Do you think Turner will get his act together before it’s too late?
Should the Phillies be regretting that 11-year, $300 million contract?