With the scheduled start of Spring Training now less than two weeks away, the expectation is the likes of Trevor Bauer, Justin Turner and other free agents will soon sign new contracts.
Bauer is believed to be in the final stages of his decision-making process, with the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets the reported finalists. Meanwhile, the Dodgers have long been linked to Turner this winter.
He also has fielded interest from the likes of the Atlanta Braves, Milwaukee Brewers and Toronto Blue Jays. However, Toronto seemingly fell out of the running after signing George Springer and Marcus Semien.
There was some thought that also held true for the Brewers after coming to terms with Kolten Wong, but they remain involved for Turner, according to Robert Murray of FanSided:
Sources: Brewers still in play for free-agent third baseman Justin Turner even after agreeing to deal with Kolten Wong. Most view the Dodgers as the favorite for Turner, but the Brewers are interested.
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) February 5, 2021
Even with agreeing to sign Wong to a two-year, $18 million contract that includes an option for a third year, the Brewers remain well below the luxury tax threshold. Thus, potentially signing Turner largely comes down to interest and if terms can be agreed to.
One issue could be the Brewers’ trajectory. Along with most believing Turner was a lean to re-signing with the Dodgers, it’s believed his preference is to play for a contender. Milwaukee made the playoffs last year as the second Wild Card team despite finishing below .500.
Roberts wants Turner for Dodgers
At the beginning of the offseason Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman identified the bullpen and a right-handed hitting position player as focal points. Manager Dave Roberts went on to identify Turner as a top priority, and recently reiterated that stance.
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