In a move to strengthen their infield depth and add a proven veteran presence, the Chicago Cubs have agreed to sign free agent Justin Turner to a one-year, $6 million contract, pending a physical. The 40-year-old versatile infielder split last season between the Blue Jays and Mariners, posting a solid .354 on-base percentage across 139 games while hitting 11 home runs.
A Valuable Veteran Addition
Turner brings a wealth of experience to the Cubs, having played 16 seasons in the majors for seven different organizations. He’s been especially productive in recent years with the Dodgers, earning two All-Star nods and finishing in the top 15 of NL MVP voting three times. His career .821 OPS and postseason pedigree—86 playoff games under his belt—make him an attractive asset for a Cubs team with playoff aspirations.
The Cubs have been searching for a backup first baseman and someone who can occasionally fill in at third. Justin Turner checks those boxes.
– Cubs insider
Filling Key Needs
While the Cubs project rookie Matt Shaw to be their primary third baseman, his early oblique issue in spring training highlights the importance of depth. Turner provides insurance at the hot corner, though the Cubs likely won’t ask the 40-year-old to log heavy time there after he made just six appearances at third in 2024. More critically, he offers a proven backup to Michael Busch at first base.
Chasing a Return to October
Chicago hasn’t made the postseason since 2020, and the addition of Turner, even in a part-time role, shows they’re serious about ending that drought. His extensive playoff experience—a missing ingredient for the current Cubs core—could prove invaluable down the stretch and into October baseball.
While no longer the offensive force he was at his peak, Turner still gets on base at an excellent clip and can turn on a pitch when it matters most. For a Cubs team that’s tantalizingly close to contention, adding his battle-tested presence to the clubhouse may be the kind of marginal upgrade that helps put them over the top in a competitive NL Central race.
The Bottom Line
- Turner brings valuable experience and defensive versatility to the Cubs
- He shores up depth concerns at both infield corners
- His elite on-base skills and clutch hitting are still assets even at age 40
- Extensive postseason experience is a key ingredient for a Cubs team chasing October glory
All told, signing Justin Turner looks like a smart, low-risk move for the Cubs as they aim to return to prominence in the National League. If the wily veteran can stay healthy and productive, this deal has the potential to be a difference-maker as Chicago fights for a spot in an expanded playoff field.
