The morning after winning the World Series the Los Angeles Dodgers saw seven players officially become free agents, with Justin Turner among the group. He first joined the organization prior to the 2014 season on a Minor League contract.
A utility player at the time, Turner developed into an All-Star third baseman and leader in both the clubhouse and community. This marks a second time Turner is a free agent since arriving in L.A., with the previous instance resulting in re-signing on a four-year contract after the 2016 season.
The Dodgers are said to have interest in reach another agreement, which some believe to be a more likely scenario than the team trading for Nolan Arenado or Francisco Lindor.
As MLB free agency generally moves at a slow pace, the Toronto Blue Jays have been in touch with Turner, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic:
The Jays, meanwhile, continue to pursue free agents at a breakneck pace. They are interested not only in outfielder George Springer and infielder DJ LeMahieu, but also have been in recent contact with outfielder Michael Brantley and third baseman Justin Turner, among others, sources say.
Travis Shaw was the Blue Jays’ primary third baseman this season, though he no longer is with the team after signing a one-year contract last December. Toronto had previously experimented with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. at third base, but that is no longer expected to be the case.
Should the Blue Jays wind up signing Turner, he would reunite with former Dodgers teammates Hyun-Jin Ryu and Ross Stripling. Ryu, a 2020 American League Cy Young Award finalist, signed a four-year contract with the Blue Jays last December. The Dodgers traded Striping to Toronto at the deadline this year.
Justin Turner Foundation gives back for Thanksgiving
While celebrating his 36th birthday on Monday, Turner and his wife Kourtney spent time at The Dream Center to distribute turkeys and more to local families in need.
Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in our shows, and more!
