Los Angeles Dodgers’ third baseman Justin Turner is about to turn 38 years old.
He knows the end of the line is close for him, but would like to play at least a couple of extra years.
He could potentially enter the market in the 2022-23 free agency period: the Dodgers have a $16 million club option that they must decide what to do with.
If they decline it, then Turner will get a $2 million buyout and enter free agency.
There are lots of teams in need of a third baseman with Turner’s skill set, including the New York Mets.
Is the player willing to return to Queens after almost a decade?
Apparently, he is.
“When the idea of signing with the Mets was brought up to Turner, he “didn’t hate the idea.” Turner was with the Mets from 2010-13 before heading west to join the Dodgers. Across the last 9 years in Los Angeles, he hit .296 with an .865 OPS,” SNY tweeted.
When the idea of signing with the Mets was brought up to Turner, he "didn't hate the idea."
Turner was with the Mets from 2010-13 before heading west to join the Dodgers. Across the last 9 years in Los Angeles, he hit .296 with an .865 OPS. https://t.co/rzLiCPIBVA pic.twitter.com/KPnMhVWtvV
— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) November 1, 2022
Turner Wants To Maximize His Earnings
Turner knows that this may be his last contract, and if he ends up entering the market, he wants to maximize his earnings.
Signing with the Mets and the deep pockets of their owner Steve Cohen might give Turner the best earning opportunity.
In any case, the Dodgers could still very well exercise the option, which is pricey, but only requires a one-year commitment.
Turner misses games every year with nagging injuries, but remains a top hitter when healthy.
His career 129 wRC+ indicates he has been 29 percent better than the league average hitter, and he has 13 postseason home runs with a 128 wRC+.
He is a proven commodity who would fit in nicely in the Mets lineup.
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