MESA, Ariz. (AP) — Justin Turner has reached a one-year, $6 million agreement with the Chicago Cubs, a source familiar with the deal confirmed. This move strengthens the team’s infield depth.
Turner could earn an extra $2.5 million in bonuses, according to the source, who spoke to The Associated Press anonymously since the contract is pending a physical.
His addition provides insurance at third base in case 23-year-old prospect Matt Shaw, who has been dealing with a left oblique injury in spring training, needs more time in the minors.
Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer did not confirm any transactions but acknowledged the team had been looking to add a veteran position player.
“Theoretically, I think it’s important to fortify the roster in any way possible,” Hoyer said. “You always think about what could go wrong and how to improve, and that’s been our approach this offseason.”
At 40, Turner could also serve as a backup for Michael Busch at first base and fill in as a designated hitter. Last season, he played for Toronto and Seattle, hitting .259 with 11 home runs, 55 RBIs, and a .354 on-base percentage over 139 games.
Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson praised Turner’s experience and professionalism, saying, “He’s been a really good player for a long time… someone we can learn a lot from.”
The Cubs turned to Turner after missing out on Alex Bregman, who recently signed a three-year, $120 million contract with the Red Sox.
Chicago is aiming for a playoff run after finishing 83-79 last season, securing second place in the NL Central for the second year in a row. The team has not reached the postseason since being swept by Miami in the 2020 wild-card round.
Turner joins a Cubs roster that has added several proven winners this offseason, including outfielder Kyle Tucker and relievers Ryan Pressly and Ryan Brasier. Turner, a career .270 hitter in the playoffs, played all 86 of his postseason games with the Dodgers.
Outfielder Ian Happ expressed admiration for Turner, calling him a “natural hitter” with strong situational awareness at the plate.
Turner made his MLB debut with Baltimore in 2009 and has since played for the Mets and Red Sox. Over 1,678 career games, he has posted a .285 batting average, 198 home runs, 814 RBIs, and an .821 OPS.
Additionally, on Tuesday, the Cubs announced a minor league deal with right-hander Chris Flexen, which includes an invitation to spring training. The 30-year-old pitcher struggled last season, going 3-15 with a 4.95 ERA in 30 starts and three relief appearances for the White Sox.