Athletes Are Now Choosing Philadelphia
It seems that Philadelphia is in fact a destination place for athletes across all sports.
We are often discussed as a city professional athletes have no desire to come to. But Trae Turner is the latest All-Star level player to decide to come here. Turner, the top free-agent shortstop in baseball, chose to accept an 11-year, $300 million contract to play for the National League Champion Philadelphia Phillies. The two-time All-Star joins forces with a few others that also spurned other teams to pick this city as a destination.
Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, Nick Castellanos and Zach Wheeler all decided that this was the place for them over other cities. Those four had not yet witnessed what it was like to play in front of a rabid fanbase during the World Series run. But, Turner (who played with both Harper and Schwarber while in Washington) saw it from afar. And one would assume that new former teammates told him how great it is to play here. He’s here!
Let’s not forget about Jalen Hurts’ offseason recruitment of his best friend and 2022 leading receiver A.J. Brown. While Brown was under contract and looking for an extension with the Tennessee Titans, they couldn’t come to an agreement on a new deal so the Titans looked for a new home for the Pro Bowl wideout and found it in Philly. GM Howie Roseman at least had Hurts in his ear about the possibility and it got done. Another star player choosing the city. And while we’re at it… James Harden and P.J. Tucker wanted to play for the Sixers. Money does play a factor and can be the difference but so is the city.
The best fan base in sports may be tough but they’re fair, supportive, and understand the game. The teams being pretty good also helps make Philadelphia a destination landing.
