On Tuesday, the Blue Jays announced the selection of a 39-year-old corner infielder as their new designated hitter, capping one of the most disappointing off-seasons in team history.
Justin Turner, a longtime major league veteran, agreed to a $13 million (U.S.) one-year contract. Official announcement of the deal was made at 6:30 p.m. ET, and there are reportedly incentives worth an extra $1.5 million included.
Turner is a 15-season veteran and a highly skilled slugger. In addition to being a two-time all-star, he led the Los Angeles Dodgers to victory in the 2020 World Series and has an outstanding career.270 average with a.830 on-base plus slugging percentage.
The resume is impenetrable. Turner is not going to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, but he did become one of the more reliable producers of his era following a sluggish start to his career. He should be commended for that.
However, it’s reasonable to wonder how much more he has left in the tank. Although Turner just finished a successful season with the Boston Red Sox, there have been indications of a decline in his play in recent years that should be cause for concern. Turner is now ten years removed from that original breakout season.
The resume is impenetrable. Turner is not going to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, but he did become one of the more reliable producers of his era following a sluggish start to his career. He should be commended for that.
However, it’s reasonable to wonder how much more he has left in the tank. Although Turner just finished a successful season with the Boston Red Sox, there have been indications of a decline in his play in recent years that should be cause for concern. Turner is now ten years removed from that original breakout season.