Former Red Sox Fan-Favorite Reportedly Could Land With NL Central Club After Stellar Season

It sounds like one Red Sox fan-favorite may not return to the club in 2024

One former member of the Boston Red Sox could be on the move this offseason.

Former Red Sox slugger Justin Turner is a free agent after declining his player option for the 2024 season. While there's certainly a possibility he returns to Boston next season, it's clear that there is going to be plenty of interest in his talents in free agency. One team that reportedly is interested in landing him is the Chicago Cubs, according to MLB Network's Jon Morosi. 

"Justin Turner and the Cubs are a potential match in free agency," Morosi said. "Of relevance, Craig Counsell and the Brewers made a strong push to sign Turner after the 2020 season. The Cubs are looking for offense, especially with (Cody Bellinger) and (Jeimer Candelario) now free agents."

Turner was stellar for the Red Sox in 2023 after signing as a free agent last offseason. He took over the club's designated hitter position and was one of the club's best offensive players. Plus, he immediately became one of the organization's leaders in the clubhouse. 

If the Cubs were to land Turner, they would be getting a major lift. He clubbed 23 home runs, drove in a career-high 96 runs, and slashed .276/.345/.455 across 146 games played. Turner will be 39 years old, but if the Cubs are gearing up for a postseason run, it would make sense to bring him in for one or two years. He certainly will be cheaper than someone like Bellinger and will still provide a boost in the middle of the lineup. 

Chicago already has made a bold move this offseason by hiring manager Craig Counsell away from the Milwaukee Brewers. Maybe they will make another surprising move or two shortly. 

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