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MLB Free Agency 2017: 5 potential teams for Justin Turner

By Parker Hurley

Jul 15, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Justin Turner (10) hits a solo home run during the first inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 15, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Justin Turner (10) hits a solo home run during the first inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 2, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Indians starting pitcher Corey Kluber throws a pitch against the Chicago Cubs in the first inning in game seven of the 2016 World Series at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 2, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Indians starting pitcher Corey Kluber throws a pitch against the Chicago Cubs in the first inning in game seven of the 2016 World Series at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

Cleveland Indians

The Indians were right on the doorstep of winning a World Series in 2016. To take another step towards getting back to that game, they could look to make a big move in adding Justin Turner. Turner would be a great fit and would be arguably the biggest free agency acquisition the Indians could make.  

In 2016, the Indians started with Juan Uribe at third base. Uribe was suspended midway through the season due to the league’s substance abuse policy. At his age, ability and now his out of the clubhouse issues, it is unlikely that Uribe will be playing baseball in 2017. Jose Ramirez stepped in and was a huge addition to the offense last season. He hit .312 and stole over 20 bases.

However, Ramirez was originally designated as a utility type of player and even played 48 games in left field last season. Ramirez gave the Indians a much bigger spark at the plate than he did in the field last season. He is a player who will have to stay in the lineup, but in no way does it have to be at first base.

With Michael Brantley having some injury questions, Tyler Naquin potentially playing over his head last season, and some other questions in the outfield, it is not like Ramirez would not be a welcome addition. He could be the most consistent outfield performer the Indians have this year. Therefore, in adding Turner, it almost feels like the Indians can get better at two different spots.

Turner gives the Indians big time flexibility in the middle of the lineup. Depth was a major factor in helping the Indians make a run this season, and adding depth and versatility to the lineup would be key to bringing the Indians back to the big show.

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