After reaching the World Series for the first time in 22 years but settling for runner-up honors, the Arizona Diamondbacks are looking to the free agent market to bolster their roster for next season. General manager Mike Hazen has identified veteran starting pitching as a primary target, but there’s another No. 1 name in the mix. It’s veteran Justin Turner, 39, who will turn 40 next year.
According to USA Today Sports, Arizona, which is in need of a third baseman, is targeting Turner, who became a free agent after the Boston Red Sox exercised his player option. It added that he’s at the top of Arizona’s wish list.
Arizona also showed interest in Turner last winter, when he became a free agent with the Los Angeles Dodgers, but that didn’t lead to a deal. Turner left the Dodgers after nine years with the organization when he signed a one-year, $15 million guaranteed, two-year max of $21.7 million with Boston.
Turner showed signs of an aging curve with the Dodgers in 2022, but rebounded this year in Boston. In 146 games, he batted .276 (154-for-558) with 23 homers, 96 RBIs and an .800 OPS, playing well beyond his 39 years.
Turner, who waived his $13.4 million player option for next year in exchange for a $6.7 million buyout, is a free agent again. He should be able to command a bigger free agent contract on the market based on his performance this year. If Arizona pushes hard, expect his price to rise. 보스토토
Major League Baseball Trade Rumors (MLBTR) also reports that “potentially multiple teams could check in on Turner. Arizona is not alone in its pursuit,” and “Playing in Phoenix would put him a little closer to his hometown in Southern California. If Turner plans to be a full-time third baseman again, he could fill Arizona’s third base hole with the loss of Evan Longoria to free agency. He could also be in the lineup as a designated hitter or at first base, alternating with Christian Walker.
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