Dodgers Rumors: Insider Thinks LA Could Bring Back Justin Turner This Offseason

Now that the World Series is over, the Dodgers offseason finally begins in full. The team has a ton of decisions to make this offseason, and they need to figure out how to make sure that they don’t have another postseason collapse next season.

They have a clear need at the starting pitching position, but they also have other areas that could use some upgrading. LA will be connected to most of the big free agents this winter, and they are expected to be aggressive with a few of them.

But it seems that LA is being linked to an old friend for this coming offseason. MLB insider Jim Bowden of The Athletic believes that the Dodgers could be a good fit for former third baseman Justin Turner.

“Justin Turner has a choice between exercising his $13.4 million player option or taking a $6.7 million buyout, which would be the best business decision for him considering his base salary for 2023 was $8.3 million. Turner had a nice year, slashing .276/.345/.455 with 31 doubles, 23 home runs and 96 RBIs. Beyond his production, he provided important leadership for Boston. Several contenders in need of a DH and corner infielder would love to have him in their clubhouse in 2024.”

Per Jim Bowden of The Athletic

Turner officially declined his option on Friday, and is heading back to free agency for the second straight season. Since the team already re-upped Max Muncy on a two-year extension, it’s hard to imagine there’s room for JT.

However, if the Dodgers brought Turner back, it would be a move that the majority of the fan base would be energized about. Most were upset when he left for the Boston Red Sox last offseason, but the front office believed it was time to move on.

If LA could bring him back as more of a platoon player, they may do so. But Turner had a good season in Boston, and he may want more of an everyday role next season.

Additionally, Turner would likely be a designated hitter for the most part this coming year, and that could present problems. The team is expected to go after two-way Shohei Ohtani this offseason, and he would be their full-time player in that spot.

But if the team were to miss out on Ohtani, they could turn to Turner to help fill the position. That would be the only way that I see LA bringing Turner back into the mix.

This is a nice thought, and with him being a fan favorite, it could make sense. But it seems unlikely to happen at this point, but never say never I guess.

Photo Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

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