Justin Turner Joins the Chicago Cubs
MESA, Ariz. — The Chicago Cubs have finalized a one-year, $6 million contract with veteran third baseman Justin Turner, adding a seasoned player to their roster as spring training gets underway. Turner, a two-time All-Star, brings with him a wealth of experience and versatility, having played for several major league teams over his 16-year career. He is known for his solid batting performance, hitting .285 overall, and contributing significantly with 198 home runs and 814 RBIs in 1,678 games. Turner’s journey through the MLB includes stints with the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, Baltimore Orioles, Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Seattle Mariners. Notably, he played a crucial role in the Dodgers’ World Series victory in 2020, a highlight in his illustrious career.
Turner’s Versatility and Experience
During his recent workouts with the Cubs, Turner demonstrated his versatility by taking some practice sessions at first base. Last season, he started 40 games at first base for the Toronto Blue Jays and Seattle Mariners, and made four starts at third base. His batting stats in 139 games last year include a .259 average, 11 home runs, and 55 RBIs, along with a respectable .354 on-base percentage. At 40 years old, Turner continues to be a valuable asset on the field, providing the Cubs with both depth and security. His experience and leadership will be particularly useful as the team looks to support its younger players, especially at the third base position.
Supporting Young Talent
One of the key reasons for Turner’s signing is to provide security and mentorship behind young third baseman Matt Shaw, who has been dealing with a left oblique issue this spring. Shaw, a promising prospect, has shown flashes of brilliance but needs a reliable backup to ensure the Cubs have a strong defensive presence at third base. Turner, who can earn an additional $2.5 million in bonuses, is well-suited to step in and offer the necessary support. Additionally, his ability to play first base and serve as the designated hitter adds flexibility to the Cubs’ lineup, allowing them to adapt to various game situations and maintain offensive production.
The Decision to Sign Turner
The Cubs initially pursued Alex Bregman, a highly sought-after free agent, but he ultimately signed a three-year, $120 million deal with the Boston Red Sox. This prompted the Cubs to turn their attention to Turner, whose experience and proven track record made him an attractive option. Turner’s career has been marked by consistent performance and a strong work ethic, which aligns well with the Cubs’ current focus on building a balanced and resilient team. His presence is expected to provide a stabilizing influence both on and off the field, helping to guide the younger players and contributing to the team’s overall success.
Alexander Canario Designated for Assignment
In a move to create roster space, the Cubs designated outfielder Alexander Canario for assignment. Canario, who is 24 years old and out of minor league options, was acquired in a trade with the San Francisco Giants in 2021 when the Cubs traded Kris Bryant. Despite his potential, Canario has only appeared in 21 games over the past two seasons with Chicago, hitting .286 with two home runs and eight RBIs. This decision reflects the Cubs’ need to streamline their roster and bring in players like Turner who offer immediate value and experience.
Looking Ahead
The addition of Justin Turner to the Cubs lineup is a strategic move that underscores the team’s commitment to strengthening their roster and fostering a supportive environment for their younger players. Turner’s experience and versatility will be crucial in ensuring the Cubs have a solid defensive and offensive presence at multiple positions. As the team navigates the challenges of the upcoming season, having a player of Turner’s caliber on the roster will undoubtedly provide a boost in confidence and performance. The Cubs are eager to see how Turner integrates into the team and contributes to their success both in spring training and beyond.
