The Philadelphia Phillies have been without their star shortstop since early September, but with the MLB postseason just days away, all signs are pointing in a positive direction.
The Phillies placed shortstop Trea Turner on the 10-day injured list on Sept. 8 with a right hamstring strain, and he's yet to return to the lineup. However, that could change in a matter of days.
Manager Rob Thompson told reporters on Friday afternoon Turner is doing well. The Phillies' shortstop won't play on Saturday, but the expectation remains that Turner will be in the lineup for Game 1 of the NLDS, according to MLB.com's Todd Zolecki.
When Will Trea Turner Return?
Although Turner remains out of the lineup on Friday, and won't be in the Phillies' lineup on Saturday, his manager said he's doing well.
Thompson said Philadelphia is weighing whether or not it makes sense to activate Turner for the regular season finale on Sunday. However, Turner's availability for the postseason remains clear for him to play.
The Phillies' star also ran the bases and hit on the field on Tuesday with the team, according to The Athletic's Charlotte Varnes. These are all very encouraging signs that Turner is extremely close to returning to the Phillies lineup.
Not sure that I’ve see anyone tweet this yet, but Trea is taking BP…. pic.twitter.com/1RPzIiatAC
— Taryn Hatcher (@TarynNBCS) September 23, 2025
In Turner's absence, the Phillies have gone 10-5 with three games remaining in the regular season. But, the addition of Turner for the postseason likely makes Philadelphia the favorite in the National League.
Despite missing some games this month due to his injury, Turner has put together an amazing season. He's hitting .305, which currently leads the NL, with an .814 OPS, 15 home runs and 69 RBI.
The Phillies have clinched the NL East and a first round bye in the playoffs, and can cruise into the NLDS knowing Turner is on his way back.