Today, Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman and slugger Justin Turner was named the Roberto Clemente Award winner thanks to his charitable and humanitarian efforts in the Los Angeles community, assisting youth sports programs, children and families dealing with critical illnesses, and homeless veterans.
However, it’s not known yet whether or not Turner will be back in a Dodgers uniform in 2023.
Turner has a club option for the 2023 season that the Dodgers have not yet decided on whether to pick up or not.
If they do not pick up his option, Turner will hit the free agent market for the second time in the last three years.
The Dodgers have until five days after the conclusion of the World Series to decide whether or not to exercise Turner’s option.
Within: Justin Turner said he hasn't been informed on the Dodgers' decision on his 2023 club option worth $16 million.
Dodgers have until five days after the end of the World Series to make that decision. https://t.co/PHqw2gY0v0
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) October 31, 2022
Will The Dodgers Keep Turner?
Turner hit .278 with 13 home runs and 81 RBI during the regular season.
His performance this postseason was quite uninspiring, as he hit just .154 in 13 at-bats without hitting a home run or driving in any runs.
At 37, Turner’s status with the Dodgers is uncertain as of now.
If the Dodgers do not exercise Turner’s option, then he’ll join Trea Turner, Clayton Kershaw, Craig Kimbrel, Joey Gallo, Andrew Heaney, and Tyler Anderson as one of the seven notable Dodgers players to hit the free agent market.
If he ends up becoming a free agent, then it is very possible that his time with the Dodgers may have come to an end.
The Dodgers still have a little time to decide, but depending on when the World Series ends, the decision may come sooner.
NEXT: Justin Turner Takes Home A Prestigious 2022 MLB Honor