Justin Turner Future Dodgers Manager? LA Fans Weigh In
When Justin Turner left the Los Angeles Dodgers for the Boston Red Sox, he left a void in the clubhouse that was difficult for anyone to fill. He was a leader of men on and off the field while becoming a pillar in the community and a fan favorite.
There has been thought that he could become a manager once his playing days conclude. Due to his ties with the organization, many have speculated about him possibly taking over the Dodgers at some point.
We asked fans on social media if they wanted to see Turner become the Dodgers manager one day, and the results were an overwhelming yes.
Turner signed a one-year deal with the Toronto Blue Jays earlier this month, and their general manager, Ross Smith, made it a point to mention his leadership qualities.
“Justin Turner has proven himself not only as an exceptional player on the field, but also an exemplary leader in the clubhouse. Justin’s history of delivering in big moments and his consistent pursuit of winning are admirable traits. Additionally, he and Kourtney’s commitment to charitable work is equally inspiring and aligns with our team’s values. We couldn’t be more excited for the impact Justin will have on our franchise both on and off the field.”
Per Ross Atkins via MLB.com
Back in January, our very own Doug McKain asked outfielder Chris Taylor about the potential of Turner becoming the manager in L.A. in about 10-15 years.
“It wouldn’t surprise me at all to see J.T. head into coaching and be a big league manager and of course, I feel like it would be for the Dodgers.”
The 39-year-old batted .276 with 23 home runs and a career-high 96 RBIs last season with the Red Sox after spending the previous nine seasons with the Dodgers.
Photo Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
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As for Justin as the new Dodger’s manager, yes please!
I hope he handles pitchers better than Roberts. Dave is a master motivator, but when he makes a mound trip, I literally cringe. Have watched him yank pitchers *Way* too soon. Bring in a reliever, and “Boom!” goes the game.
In all seriousness I hope they bring in Justin as manager, but only when Dave has had enough, he’s earned that right. Despite the post seasons, he’s done a wonderful job.
Yeah, let’s get him in here as 3B or 1B coach first, then bench coach. If he excels at those, yes, manager…
Yes …. I have always thought that Justin will someday become a manager on some baseball team. Of course I prefer that team to be the Dodgers. I believe he would make a very good manager and he belongs in L.A.
Lets see how he does in the minors or as a major league coach before we crown him a major league manager. If that is what Justin wants to do after his career is over then he is smart enough to know that he needs to pay his dues in the minors or as a major league coach first. Players that have gone from player to MLB manager have historically been overwhelmed. You can count the ones who have succeeded on one hand.
It’s easy to suggest that Justin Turner should be manager of the Dodgers (or another team) someday. There are so many variables involved in being a manager. It includes more than being a fan favorite or even a good teammate. For example, the Cubs tried to have David Ross lead the Cubs because everyone in the Cubs organization loved him — much like all Dodgers love Justin. He may make a great leader but I feel that it is important to be objective and realistic before “crowning” him the manager. Btw, I too have a lot of respect for Justin Turner.
I find it odd that the Dodgers let Justin go to the Red Sox as a free agent and now let him sign with the Jays if they’re thinking about him as someday managerial material. They really don’t have a solid defensive third baseman and they sure could’ve used his clutch postseason hitting the last two years. Sooner or later when Dave Roberts wears out his welcome, they’ll probably get another analytics puppet. Oh Mike Scioscia, where were you when we needed you?
The road ahead for Justin Turner will be full of curves, bumps, and some straightaways. I like what he and his wife have done for the LA community. He certainly has spark and leadership qualities. So much goes into the choice of a manager, and I am not a clairvoyant. As Dave Roberts gets a bit older, let’s see if “Big Red” is still interested in the position.
Couldn’t Justin Turner do more for the Dodgers in public relations?