The Cubs didn’t necessarily view the veteran as a fallback option to Alex Bregman, but after missing out on Bregman, they pivoted to the veteran hitter. The two-time All-Star and World Series champion, has reportedly agreed to a free-agent deal with Chicago.
Patrick Mooney of The Athletic was the first to report Tuesday that the Cubs were nearing an agreement. Shortly after, ESPN 1000’s David Kaplan and Bleacher Nation’s Michael Cerami confirmed the signing.
Despite turning 40 in November, Justin Turner has remained a productive hitter in the latter part of his career. In 2024, he played for both the Toronto Blue Jays and Seattle Mariners, finishing the season with a 117 wRC+ and a .259/.354/.383 slash line. After being traded to Seattle, he improved his numbers, posting a .766 OPS with a .264/.363/.403 slash line. According to Mooney, Turner’s deal with the Cubs is worth $6 million.
Turner is expected to be a valuable bench bat for Chicago while also providing depth at first base behind Michael Busch.
The Cubs had previously discussed signing Turner as they pursued Bregman in free agency. While not a direct alternative to Bregman, Turner’s signing underscores the team’s strategy of adding quality players regardless of Bregman’s decision. He brings experience and versatility, serving as a potential backup at both corner infield positions.
The Cubs have shown interest in Turner for several years, but he had signed short-term deals with the Red Sox and Blue Jays following his long tenure with the Dodgers. In 2024, his power numbers dipped, as he hit just 11 home runs over 539 plate appearances. However, he maintained a walk rate above 10% and finished with a solid offensive profile.
Turner and his wife, Kourtney, who is originally from Indiana, were reportedly drawn to the idea of spending the summer in Chicago. If finalized, Turner’s move to the Cubs would mark another chapter in his big-market career, having previously played for the Mets, Dodgers, and Red Sox.