Padres Rumors: Friars Linked to Former NL West Rival Justin Turner in Free Agency

This would be a great get for San Diego!

Entering the offseason, the San Diego Padres know that they have a ton of work to do. They need to find a way to get themselves back into playoff contention after a frustrating 2023 season.

One way of doing that is building a more well-rounded team, with players that fit well together. The 2023 roster has all sorts of talent, but it never gelled together in the way that it should have.

MLB insider Jim Bowden of The Athletic has linked the Padres with one of the more interesting players on the open market this winter. That would be former Boston Red Sox third baseman Justin Turner.

“Justin Turner has a choice between exercising his $13.4 million player option or taking a $6.7 million buyout, which would be the best business decision for him considering his base salary for 2023 was $8.3 million. Turner had a nice year, slashing .276/.345/.455 with 31 doubles, 23 home runs and 96 RBIs. Beyond his production, he provided important leadership for Boston. Several contenders in need of a DH and corner infielder would love to have him in their clubhouse in 2024.”

Per Jim Bowden of The Athletic

Seeing Turner wearing a Padres jersey would be a little strange after all the years that he spent with the rival Dodgers, but this could be a solid move for San Diego. He brings veteran leadership to the table, which is something that the Padres were lacking last season.

Additionally, he could provide the team with a nice bat at the designated hitter spot, as he proved that he still has some pop left. The Padres could use someone like Turner, and it may not cost too much to land him.

Bowden is predicting that Turner could get a one-year deal worth $12 million, and the Padres could always grant him a two-year contract or an option to make it more attractive. Turner brings a winning mentality and culture with him, and this could be the missing piece for this team.

The Padres would be smart to look into Turner, and fans would love having him. Plus, seeing the reactions from the Dodgers fans would be an added bonus as well.