Last offseason the Brewers offered free agent Justin Turner a multi year contract. He ended up turning it down and returning to the Dodgers on a two year deal with an option for the 2023 season. The Dodgers have elected to turn down the $16MM option. This makes Turner a free agent for the second consecutive offseason. That raises the question of will the Brewers pursue him again this offseason?
The Los Angeles Dodgers have declined the 2023 option for two-time All-Star Justin Turner.
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) November 10, 2022
Reports revealed last offseason that talks got very serious between Turner and the Brewers. In fact, Turner even referenced David Stearns by the nickname “Stearnsie”. Of course Matt Arnold is now in charge of baseball operations in Milwaukee, but it was reported last year that Mark Attanasio also had a strong interest in acquiring Turner.
Why would the Brewers want to pursue Justin Turner this offseason?
Turner, a third basemen, could be an upgrade over Luis Urias. Prior to Kolten Wong’s 2023 option being picked up, it was a thought that Urias could slide over to second base and split time with prospect Brice Turang. However, with Wong returning and Urias coming off a down season, perhaps adding a veteran such as Turner makes sense.
Next season, Turner will be 38 years old. He struggled mightily in the first half of the 2022 season, but still ended up posting solid numbers. Overall he slashed .278/.350/.438/.788 with 36 doubles, 13 home runs, and 81 RBI. His 36 doubles are a career high.
In order to pry Turner away from re-signing with the Dodgers, the Brewers will likely have to offer him another multi year deal. Senior MLB writer at the Athletic Keith Law predicted that Turner will have an AAV in the $10-12MM range. Given his age, a 2024 option should also be considered if he is offered a multi year contract.
It will be interesting to see if the Brewer are active in the Justin Turner market or not this offseason. Despite his age, he has remained productive and always seems to come through in the post season. This makes him an intriguing option for the Crew to consider.
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