Blue Jays, Turner agree to 1-year deal reportedly worth $13M
The Toronto Blue Jays signed veteran slugger Justin Turner to a one-year contract, the club announced Tuesday.
The pact is worth $13 million with an additional $1.5 million in roster and performance bonuses, sources told MLB Network's Jon Morosi.
“Justin Turner has proven himself not only as an exceptional player on the field, but also an exemplary leader in the clubhouse. … We couldn't be more excited for the impact Justin will have on our franchise both on and off the field," Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins said in a statement.
The 39-year-old remains in the AL East after producing a .276/.345/.455 slash line with 23 home runs, 31 doubles, and 96 RBIs for the Boston Red Sox in 2023.
The two-time All-Star has been one of the game's most accomplished hitters since 2014, ranking 20th or better in fWAR, batting average, and on-base percentage. He should bring extra thump to a Blue Jays lineup that finished 14th in runs scored and 16th in RBIs last season.
Projected Blue Jays batting order
| ORDER | POSITION | PLAYER | BATS |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | RF | George Springer | R |
| 2 | SS | Bo Bichette | R |
| 3 | 1B | Vladimir Guerrero Jr. | R |
| 4 | DH | Justin Turner | R |
| 5 | 3B | Cavan Biggio | L |
| 6 | 2B | Davis Schneider | R |
| 7 | LF | Daulton Varsho | L |
| 8 | C | Alejandro Kirk | R |
| 9 | CF | Kevin Kiermaier | L |
Turner has played the majority of his defensive reps at third base throughout his career but appeared mostly as a designated hitter last season. He also has experience playing first base.
The Blue Jays are expected to use Turner as a DH primarily, a source told TSN's Scott Mitchell.
The California native was a significant contributor for the Los Angeles Dodgers between 2014-2022, helping them win eight division crowns and the World Series in 2020.