The annual Justin Turner Golf Classic returned to Sherwood Country Club this year after being postponed in 2021 due to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, and the event represented a mini Los Angeles Dodgers reunion.
Justin and Kourtney Turner sold out their sixth iteration of the golf tournament, with Dodgers teammates Cody Bellinger, Will Smith and Chris Taylor among those in attendance. So too were Andre Ethier, Joe Kelly, Albert Pujols, Corey Seager and Chase Utley.
Bellinger, Ethier, Seager and Taylor were a foursome that went into the day with high hopes but ultimately fell short of being crowned the best performers.
“I’ve been working on a new grip,” Ethier said before the groups teed off. “I got some new clubs, but I didn’t bring them out because I’m not up to that level yet. If Belli can bomb it the way he does and I can be handsy with my chips, I think we have a chance.
“Maybe Seager is the putting guy we need for the scramble. It’s a fun day.”
Bellinger added: “My golf game has improved. I’m breaking 90 consistently now instead of high 80s. Once I can figure out how to drive off a tee box, I will be even better.”
Although Bellinger is still working on his drives, the offseason has gone well as he’s worked on a baseball swing, gotten back to full health and added strength to a surgically-repaired right shoulder.
Ethier plotted revenge at Justin Turner Golf Classic
After years of not taking up Justin Turner on an invitation to attend the annual golf tournament, Ethier was appreciative to be in attendance and had visions of driving up Seager’s expenses.
“I know he hasn’t gotten paid yet, but it’s coming. He can pick up any tab I have. I’m actually going to go in the pro shop right now and tell them everything is on him,” Ethier joked.
“Belli and Seager were young rookies when I was at the end of my career, and all the success and stuff they have, that’s what makes baseball so great. The camaraderie and brotherhood never leaves.
“Sometimes guys make bad choices to go to Texas, but I can understand the commas that were involved in that. Big congrats to him. I know it’s going to be a fun day with everyone and I look forward to running up that tab.”
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