MLB Analyst Predicts Guardians To Sign Veteran First Baseman
A lot of fans want to know whether or not the Cleveland Guardians will make a free agency signing this offseason that will help their lackluster offense. So far, the Guardians have made minimal offseason moves but an MLB analyst thinks there's still a move they could make.
Jim Bowden of The Athletic predicted that free agent 1B/DH Justin Turner will reach an agreement with Cleveland before the start of the season.
Jun 21, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Boston Red Sox designated hitter Justin Turner (2) hits a solo home run against the Minnesota Twins during the third inning at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Nick Wosika-USA TODAY Sports
Here's Bowden's explanation for the move:
Turner will likely have to wait until other dominoes fall before he’ll be able to sign because most teams have Martinez, Hoskins and Soler valued ahead of him. However, Turner’s leadership, experience and winning mentality are traits every contender wants in its clubhouse. Turner, 39, batted .276/.345/.455 last season with the Red Sox. He posted a 114 OPS+ and was worth 2.1 WAR, according to Baseball Reference. I think he’d be a great fit with the Guardians, lengthening their lineup as the DH and providing veteran leadership. It would also give them a solid midseason trade chip if things go south.
I see Bowden's rationale in terms of leadership and experience. In theory, it's a good fit. However, it's hard to see the Guardians bringing another corner infielder in when they already have a surplus of players at the position as it is.
Jose Ramirez and Josh Naylor are locks to be in the Opening Day lineup. Deyvison De Los Santos needs to be on the Major League roster or he will go back to the Arizona Diamondbacks. Kyle Manzardo will enter the equation sooner rather than later. Plus, players such as Tyler Freeman, Brayan Rocchio, and Estevan Florial have a lot to prove at the Major League level on the organization will want to see what they have.
The 26-man roster is going to be a mess for the front office to figure out already. Adding a veteran who will need to get at-bats into the mix would only complicate this.
