Dodgers decline Justin Turner's 2023 option
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LOS ANGELES -- The Dodgers made their first big decision of the offseason, choosing to decline Justin Turner’s $16 million 2023 club option on Thursday, which made the two-time All-Star third baseman a free agent.
Despite declining the option and paying a $2 million buyout, the Dodgers said Tuesday that retaining Turner is “a priority” for them this offseason. They will look to bring Turner back at a lesser price, preferably on a one-year deal.
With Los Angeles trying to be more mindful of the payroll heading into next season, giving Turner $16 million wasn’t ideal this early in the offseason.
“He is a priority for us in terms of him being with us,” said president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman. “The priority is that when we show up in Glendale, for him to be a part of what we’re doing next year. What exactly that looks like, we need time to work through.”
• Turner wins 2022 Roberto Clemente Award
Even with the Dodgers openly saying they want Turner back, the two-time All-Star now has the opportunity to talk freely with other clubs, which could open the door for him to play elsewhere next season. During his free agency before the 2021 season, the Brewers were among the favorites to sign Turner.
This offseason, with the universal designated hitter now in play, Turner will garner a lot of interest in the open market. Turner has, however, talked about his desire to finish out his career in Los Angeles.
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Since joining the Dodgers in 2014, Turner has been one of the most productive players in the organization. He posted a .788 OPS in 128 games this season despite getting off to a tough start at the plate. Turner has battled some injuries the last two seasons; he dealt with left hamstring issues in ‘21 and missed time with an abdominal injury this season.
If the Dodgers bring Turner back, it will be in a slightly reduced role. Turner would still get significant at-bats, but they will look to manage his workload, pairing off-days with a lot of starts as the team’s DH. Max Muncy and Miguel Vargas, the club's No. 3 prospect per MLB Pipeline, are expected to see the bulk of playing time at third base. Getting Vargas more at-bats next season will be at the forefront.
Aside from declining Turner’s option Thursday, the Dodgers chose to not bring back left-hander Danny Duffy, right-hander Jimmy Nelson and infielder Hanser Alberto, all of whom had a club option for 2023. The Dodgers also extended qualifying offers to lefty Tyler Anderson and shortstop Trea Turner on Thursday.