Philadelphia Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski has confirmed that Trea Turner will begin the 2027 season at shortstop, but the veteran must improve defensively to retain his starting role at the position.

Dombrowski addressed Turner's future on Thursday, making it clear that the organization expects better results from the 33-year-old after his disappointing 2026 campaign. Although the Phillies have no immediate plans to move him elsewhere on the field, his position will depend on his defensive performance.

Turner had the worst statistical season of his major league career, finishing with a .242 batting average, a .297 on-base percentage and a .378 slugging percentage across 157 regular-season games. His .675 OPS was his lowest in a full season since his rookie campaign, while his 19 home runs and 58 RBIs accompanied a career-low minus-0.1 bWAR.

His defensive numbers were even more concerning. Turner committed 21 errors, the most in MLB, and recorded minus-10 Outs Above Average, according to Statcast, the lowest figure of his career. He also posted a minus-nine fielding run value and tied for the major league low with minus-17 defensive runs saved. Baseball Savant placed him in the bottom sixth percentile for fielding run value and the bottom third percentile for fielding range.

According to Dombrowski, he personally informed Turner that he needs to show considerable improvement on defense to hold on to the shortstop position. Turner reportedly acknowledged his shortcomings, accepted responsibility for his performance and has already begun working on his swing. His difficulties continued into the postseason, where he managed just one hit in 13 plate appearances.

Philadelphia also faces a contractual consideration when evaluating his future. Turner signed an 11-year, $300 million deal in 2023 and still has six years remaining on that agreement. Dombrowski discussed the possibility of changing positions with him, but Turner prefers to remain in the infield.

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The Phillies need greater production from their shortstop as they look to improve after winning just one playoff game before elimination for a third consecutive season.

Across 1,423 career MLB games, Turner has compiled a .291 average, 205 home runs and 699 RBIs, earning two batting titles, a Silver Slugger award and three All-Star selections along the way.