Dodgers Offseason: MLB Writer Could See Justin Turner Return To His Former Team
Long-time Dodger and third baseman Justin Turner has been the heart and soul of the Boys in Blue. JT has been named a two-time All-Star in his 14-year career; nine seasons have come in Los Angeles.
The first six years of Turner’s career came with the Baltimore Orioles and the New York Mets. Baltimore designated Turner for assignment in 2010; in 2013, Justin elected for free agency with the Mets.
Turner has had a tremendous revival in Los Angeles. Justin has been the epitome of the Dodgers for many years, and now there is a possibility he could wear another jersey in 2023.
MLB writer Will Leitch made a list of eight player-team reunions he would love to see, and the 37-year-old made the list.
“Justin Turner to the Mets
He put up a .696 OPS with the Mets from 2011-13 before remaking his swing and becoming a star with the Dodgers. He could play some third base and also DH for the Mets and probably be an upgrade there. If so, it might make Mets fans feel a little better about letting him walk almost a decade ago.”
It would be weird seeing Justin Turner in any other jersey but a Dodger jersey. The Dodgers declined Justin Turner’s $16 million option this offseason, opting to pay a $2 million buyout instead.
The good news for Justin Turner fans and Dodger fans is all signs point to JT resigning with the Boys in Blue.
He’s been a marvelous player with the Dodgers, but with the Mets, not so much.
In his four seasons with the Mets, he slashed .265/.326/.370 with a .696 OPS in 301 games and 895 plate appearances.
It’s only fitting for the Dodgers to retain Turner until he no longer wants to lace them up.
JT will be back with the Dodgers. Everything he and his wife have going is here plus a post career position with the Dodgers. Now that the “Other” Turner has shown his true colors, the Dodgers could sign JT to an economical contract with incentives and begin to prepare JT for his post baseball career.
If JT is willing to take the veteran mlb minimum then the Dodgers would love to have him back. It’s his choice whether to look for more money.
The Mets never should have let him get away, Mets fans loved him. There’s no room for him now though.