The Boston Red Sox have signed former Dodgers World Series champion Justin Turner. Chaim Bloom and Co. are expected to play Turner at first base or DH.
Justin Turner may not be an elite defender entering his age-38 season, but he can still rake when employed in the right environment.
There are some players who just look like they belong in a certain organization, and Turner was meant to be a Boston Red Sox at some point in his career. The red-bearded, longtime Dodger made the NL All-Star team as recently as 2021.
I would use the term “resurgence” to describe what Boston is banking on with Turner, were it necessary. However, Turner slashed .278/.350/.438 last season with 13 home runs in 120+ games. It’s a large enough sample size to suggest he’s not slowing down, at least at the plate.
If Turner can play anywhere close to a full season as a part-time first baseman, DH candidate, the the Red Sox will have gotten their money’s worth.
Red Sox: Does Justin Turner signing have any impact on Rafael Devers?
As capable as Turner can be at third base, he will not be taking any reps away from Rafael Devers — now the face of the Boston Red Sox franchise — at that spot. Turner presents an opportunity for the Sox to upgrade at a position of need, which is first base.
Triston Casas is on his way, be not MLB-ready just yet. While Casas is groomed for the bigs, Turner can provide some much-needed playing time at first, thus keeping his seat warm. When/if Casas is ready to make the jump this season, Turner won’t lose much playing time at DH.
The only risk with Turner’s contract is that it provides an opt out after this season, and Boston could very well be in a similar position next season, where they need to find an offensive upgrade.
Chaim Bloom has been far from perfect in the 2022-23 offseason, but signing Turner is a clear win.