Los Angeles Dodgers: Justin Turner willing to move, but where?

If the Los Angeles Dodgers look to sign Anthony Rendon to play third, incumbent third baseman Justin Turner is willing to change positions. But where would he play?

Heading into the offseason, Anthony Rendon is currently considered to be the top free agent on the offensive side. The Washington Nationals star third baseman would be an upgrade on virtually any team, even one that has an All Star caliber player already at the position. However, not many of those teams would be willing to spend the money to land Rendon with such a player already in the fold.

That would not be an issue with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Should the Dodgers be interested in Rendon’s services, current third baseman Justin Turner stated that he would be willing to switch positions to facilitate such a signing.

Over his career, Turner has played each position on the infield. He had been a utility infielder prior to his breakout in Los Angeles, when he established himself as the Dodgers every day third baseman, a role that he has held since 2015.

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In fact, since the start of the 2016 campaign, Turner has appeared at a position other than third exactly twice if we discount his infrequent designated hitter appearances. In 2016, Turner played one inning at first, recording a putout. Then, last year, Turner played one inning at second, and did not have a ball hit his way.

At this point, if Turner is to change positions, first base might be his best option. The problem is that first is the home of Cody Bellinger and Max Muncy, two players that are notably younger than Turner, currently share the position. While both play other positions as well, Turner would not push either aside unless a corresponding move was to happen.

If Rendon does end up in Los Angeles, there would be other dominoes to fall before Turner finds a new position. Chances are, a trade would need to happen, with either Enrique Hernandez or Joc Pederson the most likely candidates. Hernandez has more value to Los Angeles with his ability to play any position on the infield or in the outfield, but may also attract a better return.

Obviously, Rendon has other things on his mind than free agency. The Nationals have just punched their first ticket to the World Series in franchise history, and the star third baseman is expected to be a key part of their success. Free agency can wait…for now.

If the Los Angeles Dodgers have interest in Anthony Rendon, there will not be any trouble from their current third baseman. Justin Turner is more than willing to move to another position if Rendon is brought on board. But where would he play?