*Photo from MassLive*
They needed a DH. They found one. INF/DH Justin Turner has signed a one year, $13 million contract, according to former MLB player Carlos Baerga. The Blue Jays have confirmed.
Toronto GM Ross Atkins said in a statement that "Justin Turner has proven himself not only as an exceptional player on the field, but also an exemplary leader in the clubhouse. Justin’s history of delivering in big moments and his consistent pursuit of winning are admirable traits. Additionally, he and Kourtney's commitment to charitable work is equally inspiring and aligns with our team's values. We couldn’t be more excited for the impact Justin will have on our franchise both on and off the field."
Turner's contract contains an extra $1.5 million in bonuses based on performance. Since 2014, he has ranked in the top 20 in fWAR, on base percentage, and batting average every season. In the past 10 years, his OPS has been over .800 for 9 of those years, with a .788 OPS in 2022 being the exception.
Last season, Turner played his only season with the Boston Red Sox, opting out at the end of the year. He posted a .276/.345/.455 slash line with a .114 OPS+, hitting 31 doubles and 23 home runs with 96 RBI's in 146 games.
With the Red Sox, Turner didn't play his primary position of 3rd base with Rafael Devers occupying the spot. Turner played just 7 games at 3rd while also playing first and second base to go with reps at DH. He projects to have a similar role with the Blue Jays.
Turner has played for the Red Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, Baltimore Orioles and New York Mets in 15 major league seasons. He has a .288/.363/.465 slash line with a 125 OPS+ to his name, hitting 187 home runs and 323 doubles with 759 RBI's in 1,539 games. Turner has a .270/.370/.460 slash line with 13 home runs and 42 RBI's in 86 playoff games.
So far this offseason, the Blue Jays have brought in free agent pitcher Yariel Rodriguez from Cuba and signed utility player Isiah Kiner-Falefa to a two year contract.
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