Los Angeles Dodgers: Weighing options for Justin Turner’s future

The Los Angeles Dodgers 36-year-old third baseman Justin Turner hits unrestricted free agency this offseason.

From a career backup to a 2017 All-Star appearance and NLCS MVP, then finally a 2020 World Series title, Justin Turner’s career with the Los Angeles Dodgers has been memorable.

Yet, the 36-year-old third baseman hits unrestricted free agency this offseason, and his future in Los Angeles is more uncertain than ever.

It’s no walk in the park to fill Turner’s role. Between his stellar defensive play at the hot corner, replacing a .307 hitter, and finding quality clubhouse leadership, Turner is a staple of the recent Dodgers’ championship run.

But of course, everything must come to an end, including baseball contracts. At 36-years-old, Turner is likely sitting near the end of his MLB career. His next contract will be a shorter length, probably in the two-year, $20-25 million range.

Los Angeles has some wiggle room under the league’s luxury tax threshold. With their current roster, the Dodgers sit around $17 million under the $210 million payroll threshold. If Los Angeles opts to keep Turner around for around $10 million, this definitely limits any other major offseason additions.

But, after a World Series title last season, does the roster need a ton of improvement?

Fans may argue no, but like any other front office in the league, the Dodgers’ brain trust is planning for a future full of championship aspirations.

Kris Bryant and Nolan Arenado are potentially available this offseason. Bryant enters the final year of his contract with the Chicago Cubs, who may be looking to shed his contract for prospects. Arenado just signed an eight-year, $260 million deal with the Colorado Rockies in 2019. It’s less likely that Colorado is willing to unload a five-time All-Star to its divisional rival.

According to Jorge Castillo of The Los Angeles Times, Turner would be willing to switch positions. Throughout his career, Turner has been lauded for his ability to play anywhere in the infield.

This still implies that Los Angeles is willing to re-sign Turner and significantly limit their budget for other offseason acquisitions. Is Turner willing to take a pay cut to keep the Dodgers’ core intact?

The other potential third base option lies on the 26-year-old Edwin Rios. Rios is more of a serviceable backup. In 60 career games and 139 big league at-bats, Rios owns a .260 batting average with 12 home runs and 25 RBIs. His defense is a significant downgrade from Turner with a career fielding percentage of .923 at third base.

Nonetheless, the Los Angeles Dodgers will need to make a decision about Turner’s future in the coming months.