Los Angeles Dodgers: Three landing spots for Justin Turner
There is no secret that the Los Angeles Dodgers and Justin Turner want a reunion. Turner had emerged as a star after his under the radar signing in Los Angeles, becoming an All Star third baseman and a fan favorite. He is beloved in the clubhouse and by his teammates, making a reunion seem inevitable.
But that has not been the case. Between Turner’s contract demands and the Dodgers’ comfort level in a potential contract for the third baseman, he remains in free agency. But this does not mean that his market is Los Angeles or Bust.
Former Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Justin Turner has plenty of suitors
In fact, several teams have come forth to show an interest in Turner. However, to this point, there has not been much movement in his market. Perhaps he is waiting for a team to meet his demands or come close, while those interested franchises are waiting for his price to come down. Nonetheless, as spring training is approaching, something should happen soon.
Where will Justin Turner end up? Let’s look at some options.
Los Angeles Dodgers
The Los Angeles Dodgers made plenty of news on Friday when they emerged as the victory in the Trevor Bauer Sweepstakes. He signed a three year deal worth $110 million with two opt-outs, giving the Dodgers one of the most formidable starting rotations in recent memory. With this move, ownership showed their seriousness in building a true dynasty.
But that does not mean that everything is perfect with the Dodgers. There is a gaping hole at third base with Edwin Rios currently atop the depth chart. While Rios is an intriguing player, he is not the type of third baseman a team with championship aspirations would typically have as their primary option.
There is plenty of interest in bringing Turner back to the Dodgers. The issue is making the details work. Turner is looking for a four year deal, but as he is 36 years old, the Dodgers prefer to retain him on a two year contract. As he was still productive last season while playing solid defense, there may be a middle ground for the two sides.
The Los Angeles Dodgers and Justin Turner both want a reunion. It is just a matter of getting the details to work.
Toronto Blue Jays
If there was a team besides the Los Angeles Dodgers that was expected to sign Justin Turner, it would have been the Toronto Blue Jays.
As the Blue Jays sought to improve their roster for the 2021 season, they had focused on several areas of the lineup, including third base, Although Vladimir Guerrero Jr. could hypothetically play the position, and has slimmed down dramatically this offseason, he is better suited to play first base or be a designated hitter.
That desire to improve the lineup has led to Marcus Semien being signed to a one year deal to play second base. This would presumably move Cavan Biggio to a utility role, but he could also be an option to take over at third.
As such, the Blue Jays could be out of the running for Turner, but there has not been any word that their interest has waned. He would still be a fit in Toronto, providing another solid bat in the lineup while improving their defense at the hot corner. His playoff experience would also be invaluable to a younger roster that is looking to take the next step.
The Toronto Blue Jays still make sense as a destination for Justin Turner. The former Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman would be an improvement at the hot corner.
Milwaukee Brewers
For the most part, the Milwaukee Brewers had been quiet this offseason. That changed when they signed Kolten Wong on Wednesday.
After the Cardinals acquired Nolan Arenado, teams in the NL Central began to make moves. The division is still wide open, with four teams likely to contend for the divisional title. Adding the right piece could make a difference between finishing first and finishing fourth.
This makes the Brewers’ interest in Justin Turner all the more understandable. Milwaukee does need an upgrade at the hot corner as Luis Urias is currently atop their depth chart. Adding Turner to the roster would improve their lineup and continue to improve a defense that has been upgraded with the addition of Wong.
Turner would not solve all of Milwaukee’s issues. They could still use help in the rotation and another arm in the bullpen. However, he would fill a void in the lineup and upgrade their defense. That may be enough to keep the Brewers in contention until the trade deadline.
Dodgers looking to become dynasty with Bauer. dark. Next
Justin Turner has plenty of options remaining in free agency. His market is not the Los Angeles Dodgers or bust.