With the offseason entering its final weeks, the Los Angeles Dodgers have seen more of their free agents leave the team than return. Most notably still hanging in the balance is Justin Turner, who has drawn interest from several teams.
Although the Dodgers have long been viewed as the favorite to re-sign Turner, the sides seemingly remain apart on contract terms. In the meantime, the likes of the Milwaukee Brewers, Toronto Blue Jays and Washington Nationals are among those with reported interest.
It was recently said Turner had pared down his considerations to four teams and was looking to sign with a contender. According to Jon Heyman of MLB Network, the Atlanta Braves joined the group of teams to have made contact with the 36-year-old:
Braves are among teams to check in on Justin Turner. No surprise, he has no shortage of suitors. Most still see Dodgers as heavy favorite for the longtime Dodger.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 29, 2021
It’s unclear if the Braves are among the finalists Turner is considering, though they certainly qualify as a team with World Series aspirations. Turner would fill a need for the Braves at third base, as they relied on a rotation of Austin Riley, Adeiny Hechavarría and Johan Camargo last season.
Atlanta previously was linked to fellow Dodgers free agent Joc Pederson, who wound up agreeing to a one-year contract with the Chicago Cubs. Marcell Ozuna represents yet another connection between the Dodgers and Braves.
L.A. reportedly is among the teams with interest in Ozuna, but that may be largely predicated on whether or not the universal designated hitter will return in 2021.
Turner ranked top-10 third baseman
As MLB Network’s The Shredder continues its positional rankings for this season, Turner again placed among the top 10 third basemen.
Beyond his consistent production on the field, Turner is lauded for his leadership and presence in the clubhouse and community. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts recently reiterated his stance that re-signing Turner was of importance.
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