Trea Turner Expresses Disappointment Over Missing WBC Opportunity
Trea Turner, the shortstop for the Phillies, had hoped to make an impact with Team USA during the World Baseball Classic. He had a standout performance in 2023, matching the tournament record with five home runs, which certainly made his exclusion more surprising.
When the roster was revealed back in March, Turner found himself left out. On Monday, he clarified that this decision wasn’t due to him declining an invitation. “It was something I wanted to do, but the phone never rang,” he remarked, sharing his feelings from the Phillies’ spring training facility. He added, “It’s a lot of fun. I’d happily do it again. Like I said last time, if they asked, I’d say yes.”
Team USA manager Mark DeRosa and general manager Michael Hill decided to go with Bobby Witt Jr. and Gunnar Henderson for the shortstop positions instead of the 32-year-old Turner, reshaping an infield that aimed for success after falling to Japan in the last championship match.
Even with this disappointment, Turner acknowledged the strength of the Team USA lineup, which boasts stars like Aaron Judge, alongside his Phillies teammates Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper. “They have a great roster this year,” he noted. “They’re stacked up.”
Instead of joining Team USA, Turner will continue with the Phillies for the entirety of the Grapefruit League and spring training. His impressive past performance, including a crucial grand slam in the quarterfinals against Venezuela, leaves fans wondering when they might see him in the next World Baseball Classic, which isn’t scheduled until 2029.
“I think we’re in a good position to win,” Turner expressed regarding Team USA’s chances. He also mentioned that he plans to watch the games and support his teammates, voicing his hopes that they perform well for their country. “It’s a lot of fun,” he added, reflecting on the event.
Last season, Turner achieved a batting average of .304, with 15 home runs and 69 RBIs, securing the National League batting title—his most impressive stats since joining the Phillies.
