The Los Angeles Dodgers won a franchise-record 106 games in 2019, and although they were defeated by the Washington Nationals in the National League Division Series, there still is a ton of optimism in the organization heading into 2020.
A big reason for that is the influx of young talent that has swept through the franchise in recent years. The Dodgers do still have quality veteran players to provide leadership as well, and one of those is Justin Turner.
As he gets set to enter his seventh season with the Dodgers, Turner was ranked a top 10 third baseman by ESPN’s Buster Olney. To help amass his annual list, Olney received input from evaluators and others around baseball.
Third base is one of the best and deepest positions in the sport, so even though Turner has been an exceptional player for several years with the Dodgers, he came in at No. 10 on the list. Alex Bregman of the Houston Astros came was ranked No. 1, followed by Anthony Rendon, Nolan Arenado, Matt Chapman and Josh Donaldson.
Kris Bryant, Rafael Devers, Eugenio Suarez and Jose Ramirez then rounded out the top 10, in that order, ahead of Turner.
Appearing in 135 games, Turner had another strong offensive season in 2019. He hit .290/.372/.509 with 24 doubles, 27 home runs (tied a career-high), 80 runs scored (career high) and 67 RBI. He is also one of the most clutch postseason hitters of this generation and lived up to that reputation by batting .286/.333/.667 with two home runs and five RBI against the Nationals in the NLDS.
Likely due to nagging injuries, the 35-year-old’s defense slipped some this past season. Though, Turner graded well in the newly released Outs Above Average for infielders.
Turner is entering the final deal of his contract and should again prove to be a key right-handed bat that anchors the Dodgers’ lineup.
Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in our live shows, and more!
