In 2025, Philadelphia Phillies manager Rob Thomson introduced a new hitting approach for shortstop Trea Turner — one that emphasized making contact and getting on base over hitting for power. This shift in philosophy was a strategic move designed to transform Turner into a reliable table-setter for the team’s heavy hitters, and so far, it’s proving effective. Phillies fans, long hoping to see Turner use his speed and consistency more effectively, have welcomed the change with enthusiasm.
The revised strategy was born out of a conversation between Thomson and Turner early in the season. During their meeting, Thomson laid out his expectations clearly: he didn’t care about home run totals. Instead, he wanted Turner to focus on getting on base, stealing bases, and scoring runs. The manager emphasized the importance of setting a .380 on-base percentage as the goal and targeting 40 stolen bases and 100 runs scored. In Thomson’s view, if Turner could meet those marks, power numbers would be secondary.
“At the start of the season, Trea and I had a talk,” Thomson shared. “I told him, ‘I don’t care about home runs. We’ve got guys who can do that. I want you to get on base, steal bases, and score 100 runs.’”
Since adopting this contact-first mindset, Turner has posted strong numbers. His batting average has climbed to .297, and his on-base percentage has risen to .371 — a significant jump from last season’s .338. Notably, his chase rate has dropped by over six percentage points, from 34.3% last year to 28.1% this season, showing greater plate discipline and selectivity.
However, this new approach hasn’t come without trade-offs. Turner’s slugging percentage has declined sharply from .469 to .367, a reflection of his reduced focus on hitting for power. Additionally, while his contact has improved, his strikeout rate remains nearly identical to last year’s — 18.9% this year versus 18.2% in 2024.
Despite these sacrifices, Turner is on board with the plan. He acknowledges that while the power numbers are down, the shift in approach is part of a bigger vision. He still wants to be a complete offensive player but recognizes the value in being more controlled at the plate.
“It’s a great goal, and we talked about it. I definitely want to achieve that,” Turner said. “Getting on base consistently would make for a really strong season. I still want to be a complete player, though. Thomson’s right — I can’t just chase power and swing for the fences every time. I need to be smart, and the home runs will come naturally. Right now, I’m doing what we talked about, but I know I can drive the ball more — hit doubles, homers. That’s the next step.”
While Turner has only hit one home run so far this season, compared to 21 in just 121 games last year, he remains confident that his power will eventually return, especially as the season progresses and the weather warms. He believes his current form is laying the foundation for a more complete performance in the months ahead.
Since joining the Phillies in 2023, Turner has mostly slotted in at the top of the batting order — either leading off or batting second. His primary role has been to set the table for sluggers like Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber, and his elite speed has made him especially dangerous on the basepaths. With the new approach generating more singles and on-base opportunities, Turner is effectively fueling the team’s run production and helping the offense operate more smoothly.
Ultimately, the change in philosophy represents a calculated adjustment by both Thomson and Turner. It prioritizes consistency, speed, and run creation over raw power. While Turner may not be filling up the home run column like he did in the past, his impact on the game remains significant — and potentially even more valuable — as he embraces a style that plays to his full skill set.
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