MLB Updates: Justin Turner Joins Blue Jays, One-Year Deal Agreed Amidst Prolonged Free Agency

After a few months of low-key activities, the Toronto Blue Jays have finally made an attractive move in the market. According to famous insider Jon Morosi, the Blue Jays have agreed to a one-year deal with Justin Turner. The slugger formerly played in the Boston Red Sox and the Los Angeles Dodgers.

This comes on the back of many reports which indicated that there was a mutual interest and now it has become official. The 39-year-old has shown the world that there’s still a lot left in his tank. Now the Blue Birds have taken a leap of faith for Turner with an appropriately high contract.

Another big contract for the 39-year-old Justin Turner

The longevity of Justin Turner is otherworldly. At the age of 39, he has again gotten a respectable contract from a big franchise. According to Jon Morosi, Turner has signed a $13 million contract with $1.5 million in roster and performance bonuses. This deal has certainly bolstered the hitting lineup of the Blue Jays, as even at 39 – Turner has shown no signs of slowing down.

In 2023 while playing for the Boston Red Sox Turner hit 23 home runs with a slash of .276/.345/.455. These are great numbers for any young player, but for a player who was 38 at the time? This is simply elite stuff. In the last ten seasons, Turner has averaged 24 home runs and has remained a huge threat on the plate. However, his greatest quality happens to be his incredible discipline – the slugger has had a sub-18% strikeout rate in the past decade.

On the other hand, this creates an enviable situation for the Blue Jays. While Turner will probably play as a Designated Hitter, he can play in the infield as well. So along with their new signee Isiah Kiner-Falefa, the Jays have found two players who can cover for Vladimir Guerraro Jr. during the long regular season. Simultaneously, Turner’s huge presence and leadership skills can come in handy for a team that is looking to take the next step forward in its evolution.

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So at least for now, this looks like a great piece of business by the Blue Birds. Especially if Turner manages to continue the momentum of 2023. After a tough few months, the Blue Birds are certainly starting to take a high flight.

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