Phillies sign Trea Turner, but still have two big needs to fill this offseason

The Philadelphia Phillies have landed their shortstop of the future in Trea Turner. Now what comes next for the defending National League champions?

SAN DIEGO — Trea Turner has found a new home with the Philadelphia Phillies, inking an 11-year, $300 million deal on Monday afternoon. It’s a powerful statement for Philadelphia this offseason, a team that has seemingly insulated itself from the early-season loss of Bryce Harper as he recovers from Tommy John surgery.

But what comes next for the Phillies this offseason? Yes, there is still work to do, even with Turner now in the fold.

Moves for the Philadelphia Phillies after signing Trea Turner

Build up the bullpen

Bringing back 37-year-old reliever David Robertson after a solid campaign in 2022 (2.70 ERA/3.71 FIP/1.371 WHIP/153 ERA+) would be a good starting point for the Phillies as they look to ensure that the bullpen doesn’t once again become a problem. There are plenty of external options to boost the back end of the bullpen as well, including setup man Carlos Estevez, who had a solid contract year with the Colorado Rockies, and Kenley Jansen, who could immediately become the team’s closer and also put a dent in the division rival Atlanta Braves bullpen.

Add another starter

With Zach Eflin signing a deal with the Tampa Bay Rays, Philadelphia definitely has a need to add a veteran starter to the rotation. The New York Mets figured out how to replace Jacob deGrom with Justin Verlander. Now the Phillies need to figure out that equation as well, albeit on a lesser scale.

Add in that Kyle Gibson and Noah Syndergaard are also wearing different uniforms than Philadelphia’s to start next season and it’s easy to see the need in the City of Brotherly Love. However, the need doesn’t come at the front of the rotation as Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, and Ranger Suárez slot into the first three places for now. Plus, with a spot in the rotation reportedly being held for a prospect next season, Philadelphia seemingly has just one glaring spot to fill, even with the defections.

Expect the Phillies to sign a veteran pitcher this offseason who will come with a lower price tag but still can be counted upon during what will be a dogfight in the division to reach the postseason.