Even while sidelined with a hamstring strain, Trea Turner is putting together his best season yet with the Philadelphia Phillies.
The former World Series champion has posted 5.3 WAR with 15 home runs, 69 RBIs and 36 stolen bases. He also leads the National League in both hits (179) and batting average (.305).
With eight games remaining, Turner has a chance to make history. If he finishes in the top two in both batting average and stolen bases, he’ll become the first player to achieve the feat multiple times since Hall of Famer Honus Wagner.
Turner’s spot on the leaderboard isn’t secure. Chicago stars Nico Hoerner and Pete Crow-Armstrong remain threats to pass him in average and steals, respectively, while Turner works his way back from the injured list.
The Phillies, however, haven’t ruled out a return before the end of the regular season. Currently in a race for the National League's No. 1 seed with the Milwaukee Brewers, Philadelphia would welcome his return. Earlier this week, Matt Gelb of The Athletic reported Turner has been progressing quickly.
“Turner jogged at 50 percent on Wednesday,” Phillies manager Rob Thomson told The Athletic. “He’s been taking grounders and hitting in the cage.”
According to Gelb, the Phillies are “encouraged — surprised, even — by Turner’s pace.” The club is considering bringing in a minor league pitcher next week to give Turner live at-bats before activating him.
While Turner may not push his hamstring chasing steals, he could look to protect his batting title as Philadelphia gears up for the postseason.