The Boston Red Sox finalized the signing of Justin Turner to a one-year contract with a player option for 2024, which marked the end of his career with the Los Angeles Dodgers after nine seasons.
Turner signed with the Dodgers on a Minor League contract prior to the 2014 season and went on to become a two-time All-Star, World Series champion, clubhouse leader and influential presence in the community. Turner holds multiple Dodgers postseason records and is the franchise’s all-time leader in hit by pitches.
After his signing with the Red Sox was completed, Turner posted a heartfelt message to reflect on his time with the Dodgers, influence and importance of fans, coaches and other personnel who played a part in revitalizing his career.
Turner hit .296/.375/.490 with 235 doubles, 156 home runs and 574 RBI over 1,075 games during his career with the Dodgers.
Dear LA… pic.twitter.com/GBaXJdyqcV
— Justin Turner (@redturn2) January 7, 2023
In 2016, Justin and Kourtney Turner established the Justin Turner Foundation, with a mission to support homeless veterans, children (and their families) battling life-altering illnesses and diseases, and provide for youth baseball organizations.
Turner received the 2022 Roberto Clemente Award in recognition of his endless charitable work. He credited Kourtney for winning the honor and has regularly pointed to her as being the driving force behind their foundation.
Justin Turner wanted to re-sign with Dodgers
The Long Beach native hoped to finish his career with the Dodgers, but that probability decreased when they agreed to terms with J.D. Martinez on a contract for the 2023 season. That in turn created an opportunity for Turner with the Red Sox, as he’ll now serve as their primary designated hitter.
Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman deemed Turner one of the club’s top priorities in free agency, but it’s unclear how aggressive they were in re-signing him.
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