"I don't want to deal with no bloody leggings" - When Trea Turner revealed the story behind his signature sliding maneuver

Ahead of the 2023 season, Trea Turner and the Philadelphia Phillies agreed to an 11-year, $300 million contract. He would become the team's newest shortstop and a threat at the top of the batting lineup.

One thing that makes Turner stand out in the big leagues is his speed. He is regarded as one of the fastest players in the league with his ability to steal a base at any given moment.

Turner has been going to the same strength and conditioning coach since high school. He gives them a lot of praise for developing him into the speedster he is now, via a 2023 interview on MLB Tonight.

"I got a guy in the offseason that I've been going to since I think Sophomore year of high school. So, it's been a long time. I think it's been 15 years or so. I go there and work on form, strength, speed, a little bit of everything," said Turner.

Not only does this work help Turner get stronger and faster, but it also helps his body prepare for the grueling MLB season. However, that is not all the slugger talked about.

He has developed one of the cleanest slides in all of professional baseball over the years. Turner did not develop that for show, there is actually a reason he prefers the old-school slide rather than going in head first.

"Don't get a scrape or a scab or any of those cuts on your legs and arms or anything like that. That's why I try to hit the ground as soft as possible and then get back up as quick as possible" said Turner.

Phillies will need Trea Turner at his best with the rise of the NL East

Philadelphia Phillies - Trea Turner (Photo via IMAGN)

The Phillies are coming off a successful season. They won the NL East with their 95-67 record, putting them in the postseason. However, they would have a tough time against the New York Mets in the NLDS, losing the series to the New York Mets.

Philadelphia comes into the 2025 season with a ton of talent, but so do a lot of the other teams in the division. The Mets have gotten much better with the acquisition of Juan Soto.

The Atlanta Braves should also be a better team once they get Ronald Acuna Jr. and Spencer Strider back. Philadelphia will need the best from their stars like Trea Turner, Bryce Harper, and Kyle Schwarber if they want to be a contender.