Dave Dombrowski Addresses Phillies’ Offseason Plans, Trea Turner’s Future and More

The Philadelphia Phillies have plenty of questions to answer heading into the offseason, and Dave Dombrowski offered some insight into the organization’s plans during a press conference Thursday.

From changes to the coaching staff to the future of Trea Turner and Alec Bohm, the

Phillies’ president of baseball operations touched on several important topics that could shape the team heading into the 2027 season.

Dombrowski also made it clear that Philadelphia intends to make moves this offseason as it looks to improve its roster and remain competitive in the National League.

Here’s everything you need to know from the Phillies’ latest press conference.

Carlos Mendoza Named New Third Base Coach

One of the biggest announcements from Thursday’s press conference was the hiring of Carlos Mendoza as the Phillies’ new third base coach.

Mendoza, the former manager of the New York Mets, brings major-league coaching and managerial experience to Philadelphia. His arrival represents a change to the Phillies’ coaching staff as the organization prepares for another season.

The Phillies also announced that Tim Mayza will return to the team on a one-year deal, providing another potential option for the pitching staff heading into 2027.

Dombrowski Addresses Phillies’ Baserunning Concerns

Baserunning has been a topic of discussion surrounding the Phillies, but Dombrowski does not appear overly concerned about the team's ability in that area.

During the press conference, Dombrowski expressed confidence in Trea Turner’s speed, identifying him as one of the fastest players in the league.

Turner’s speed remains an important asset for Philadelphia, but translating that athleticism into consistently productive baserunning will be something to watch next season.

With Mendoza joining the coaching staff, the Phillies will have an opportunity to improve their execution on the basepaths and get more out of their offensive opportunities.

Trea Turner’s Defense Could Determine His Future at Shortstop

Perhaps one of the most significant storylines from Dombrowski’s comments involved Turner’s defense.

Dombrowski reportedly told Turner that he cannot play shortstop the way he did during the 2026 season heading into 2027. The message suggests that the Phillies expect noticeable improvement from their starting shortstop.

Turner’s offensive ability and athleticism make him an important part of Philadelphia’s lineup, but his defensive performance will be under increased scrutiny.

Dombrowski also indicated that a position change could become a possibility if Turner does not improve defensively.

That creates an important question for the Phillies moving forward: How much patience will the organization have with Turner at shortstop, and what alternatives would it consider if his defense does not improve?

For now, Turner appears to have an opportunity to remain at the position, but the expectations are clear heading into next season.

Bryce Harper Will Return to First Base

Bryce Harper is expected to play first base again in 2027, continuing his role at the position for Philadelphia.

Harper’s presence at first base gives the Phillies continuity in their infield while allowing them to maintain his bat in the middle of the lineup.

His offensive production remains central to the team's success, and his role at first base will be another important piece of the defensive alignment as Philadelphia works through its offseason decisions.

Dombrowski Promises Offseason Moves

If there was one message Phillies fans should take away from Dombrowski’s press conference, it is that the organization intends to be active this offseason.

Dombrowski stated that moves will be made to improve the team, signaling that Philadelphia is not satisfied with simply running back the same roster.

The exact moves remain unclear, but the Phillies have several areas to evaluate as they construct their 2027 roster. Decisions involving the infield, pitching staff and potential free-agent additions could all influence the team's direction.

Dombrowski also provided an encouraging update on three prospects: Miller, Wood and Rincones. He indicated that the trio is getting close to being ready for the major-league level.

Their development could give Philadelphia additional options, whether that means providing depth, competing for roster spots or eventually taking on larger roles.

The Phillies will need to determine how quickly those prospects can contribute and whether they can help address the team's needs without relying entirely on outside additions.

What Happens With Alec Bohm?

Alec Bohm’s future with the Phillies remains another important offseason question.

When asked about Bohm, Dombrowski indicated that the organization is not actively moving away from anyone at this point. However, he acknowledged the value Bohm has provided and what the team would lose if he does not return.

Dombrowski pointed to Bohm’s ability to drive in approximately 90 runs annually and described him as a player who has done a solid job for the organization.

Those comments suggest that, regardless of what happens this offseason, the Phillies recognize Bohm’s contributions.

At the same time, Bohm’s future is not necessarily settled. Dombrowski also said the team had not discussed a qualifying offer with him.

For Philadelphia, the decision will come down to how Bohm fits into its long-term plans and whether the organization believes another option could provide greater value.

Bohm has delivered meaningful offensive production during his time with the Phillies, and replacing that production would not necessarily be an easy task.

Orion Kerkering’s Future Remains a Question

Orion Kerkering also came up during Dombrowski’s media availability.

Dombrowski expressed belief that Kerkering can turn things around, although he stopped short of expressing complete confidence in that outcome.

That distinction is worth watching as the Phillies evaluate their bullpen heading into 2027.

Kerkering has the opportunity to reestablish himself, but the organization will need to determine how much it can rely on him as it builds its pitching staff for another postseason push.

The Phillies' offseason decisions could ultimately determine whether Kerkering receives another significant opportunity or has to compete for a different role.

Zack Wheeler’s Future Remains Uncertain

Zack Wheeler’s contract situation was another topic addressed during the press conference.

Dombrowski explained that his previous conversations with Wheeler about the contract were not recent. He also indicated that Wheeler had believed 2027 would be his final season.

According to Dombrowski, there have been no further conversations on the matter, and the organization will wait for Wheeler’s decision.

Dombrowski also emphasized Wheeler’s value, describing him as a premium pitcher.

That makes Wheeler’s situation particularly important for Philadelphia. A pitcher of his caliber can have a major impact on the rotation, and his plans beyond 2027 could influence the organization's longer-term approach to its pitching staff.

For now, the Phillies appear willing to wait for Wheeler to determine his next step before making any further decisions.

Phillies Have Interest in Bringing Back Luis Arraez

Dombrowski also stated that he has interest in bringing back Luis Arraez, introducing another potential storyline to Philadelphia’s offseason.

Arraez’s contact-oriented approach could offer the Phillies another option as they evaluate how to improve their offense.

Whether that interest develops into serious negotiations remains to be seen, but his name is now part of the conversation surrounding the team's plans for 2027.

With Dombrowski promising offseason moves, Philadelphia’s interest in Arraez is something fans should keep an eye on as the offseason progresses.

Final Thoughts

Dombrowski’s press conference offered a glimpse into the Phillies’ priorities heading into 2027, with questions surrounding Turner’s defense, Bohm’s future, Wheeler’s contract situation and the team’s potential additions all coming into focus.

The coaching staff will also look different with Mendoza taking over at third base, while the possibility of young prospects reaching the majors could give the organization more flexibility.

Most importantly, Dombrowski made it clear that the Phillies intend to make changes.

Now, the question is whether those moves will be enough to address the team's weaknesses and put Philadelphia in a stronger position to compete next season.