The Boston Red Sox officially signed longtime Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Justin Turner to a one-year contract with a player option for 2024.
The 38-year-old joining a new organization brought an end to his tenure with the Dodgers after nine remarkable seasons. He first signed with the team on a Minor League contract in 2014 and went on to become a clubhouse leader and pillar in the community.
Turner finished off his tenure in L.A. by winning the 2022 Roberto Clemente Award, which is presented annually to the player who best represents the game of baseball through extraordinary character, community involvement, philanthropy and positive contributions, both on and off the field.
As Turner departs, the Dodgers shared a video on their social media accounts thanking the 2020 World Series Champion for his tenure in L.A.
Thank you, Justin. pic.twitter.com/BSwihWZq9h
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) January 6, 2023
The two-time All-Star batted .296/.375/.490 with 235 doubles, 156 home runs and 574 RBI over 1,075 games during his time in L.A. He is the franchise all-time leader in hit-by-pitches and holds several club postseason records.
Clayton Kershaw and Chris Taylor both expressed they are going to miss having Turner on the team, and it is an opinion that is likely shared by many of their teammates and Dodgers fans.
Manny Mota praises Justin Turner
Manny Mota recognized Turner, along with Cody Bellinger, on his Instagram as the two move on to different organizations.
Mota wrote as the caption, “For the last #throwbackthursday of the year I want to remember our boys Cody and Justin. Belli and Rojo were two of the best Dodgers and carried the team when we needed. Thanks for the memories and good luck in your new destination. We are going to miss you, guys.”
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