It’s been a tough year for Trea Turner during his first season with the Phillies. Despite Turner struggling both offensively and defensively, fans in Philadelphia pulled together to give their $300 million shortstop a standing ovation on Friday during the team’s clash against the Royals.
The act of kindness from fans at Citizens Bank Park did not go unnoticed by the 30-year-old, who responded with a heartwarming gesture of his own.
Making very clear that the standing ovation was well received, Turner bought a series of billboards across Philadelphia in order to thank the Phillies’ fanbase.
On the billboards was a message that read, “Thank you, Philly,” via John Clark.
Trea Turner is thanking Phillies fans for the standing ovations this weekend on billboards around Philly. Wow. #CityOfBrotherlyLove pic.twitter.com/7XlREGusGX
— John Clark (@JClarkNBCS) August 6, 2023
The two-time All-Star has been the recipient of plenty of boos this year from fans in Philadelphia, but they flipped the script on Friday with their strong show of support.
Turner recorded one hit in Friday’s game and launched a three-run homer on Saturday as part of a two-hit game, his first multi-hit outing since July 23.
Turner is slashing .238/.291/.378 with 11 home runs and 39 RBI this year. His lowly .668 OPS is far and away the worst mark of his career. For reference, Turner hasn’t recorded an OPS below .809 since 2018.
Under contract with the Phillies through the 2033 campaign, Turner will have plenty of time to turn things around, and the fanbase is hoping the added support will help get the star shortstop back on track.
Clearly, he’s appreciative of their renewed support, taking the time to thank fans in a way he’s hoping will get his message out across the city.
