Brewers could spoil Justin Turner reunion in Los Angeles
The Brewers are reportedly interested in signing Justin Turner away from the Dodgers.
The Los Angeles Dodgers made headlines Friday by convincing Trevor Bauer to choose them over the New York Mets. Giving him record-setting money surely helped the cause.
But the Dodgers may still not be done spending as Justin Turner remains without a deal for 2021. The veteran third baseman has posted a combined 28.9 WAR in seven seasons with the Dodgers and is a beloved member of the club.
But what happens if the Dodgers end up low-balling him a bit after the Bauer deal? That could allow another team to slide in and convince the veteran to maximize his earnings at the age of 36. FanSided’s MLB insider Robert Murray recently linked the Milwaukee Brewers to Turner.
Sources: Brewers still in play for free-agent third baseman Justin Turner even after agreeing to deal with Kolten Wong. Most view the Dodgers as the favorite for Turner, but the Brewers are interested.
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) February 5, 2021
Brewers still in on Turner
Murray notes that the signing of Kolten Wong has done nothing to sway the Brewers’ interest on Turner. That is because the team could still use an upgrade at third base after improving the right side of the infield.
The tough part here is outspending a team like the Dodgers. They are about to spend a fortune in luxury tax, but that does not appear to be of any concern to ownership. Turner choosing any other team than the Dodgers if the money is similar would be a shock. The club gave him a second chance in 2014 and he has been a consistent contributor ever since.
As it stands now, Edwin Rios slots in as the starting third baseman. He has seen limited action in two MLB seasons and would obviously be a downgrade after so many years of Turner. The last thing the Dodgers want to do is get worse at any position after spending so much on Bauer to keep this championship window open.
Next. Trevor Bauer’s contract with Los Angeles is record-setting. dark
The Brewers have every reason to be interested in Turner. But the Dodgers letting him walk, barring an insane Brewers offer, would be a true surprise given the team’s willingness to spend whatever it takes to get whoever they want.