Dodgers: Justin Turner Discusses Front Office’s Activity in Off-Season
The Dodgers have certainly had a loud off-season in the media in terms of rumors and the like, but have nothing but right-hander Blake Treinen to show for it. Early talks after the season consisted of rumors regarding the likelihood of a Gerrit Cole homecoming, a potential Stephen Strasburg deal, or even Anthony Rendon manning the hot corner at Chavez Ravine. None of those things happened.
For those Anthony Rendon rumors in particular, Justin Turner was at the center of those discussions. In order to make room for Rendon, Turner had reportedly agreed to move to first base to accommodate him. Now that it appears the Dodgers are no longer in the business of displacing The Red Dream from his spot, it remains up in the air where his positional home will be in 2020. If the Dodgers acquire Francisco Lindor — a nice thought — what does it mean for JT?
In a recent interview with Petros and Money on AM 570 Los Angeles, Turner discussed his thoughts on the way the offseason has gone so far with the addition of Blake Treinen as well as the way the roster stands to look in 2020.
Red Hot on the Stove
Turner was asked by Petros and Money about how much he watches the rumor mill during the off-season and his answer was pretty cool.
“I watch it just like everyone else. I am a baseball fan, first and foremost. I love the game and love seeing all the stuff and trades, transactions, and signings. I love paying attention and I obviously pay attention extra closely to see what is going on with the Dodgers.”
Just like most of us, we watch intently for the Ken Rosenthal and Jeff Passan tweet notifications to come through, hoping that one of them is a big deal or signing for the Dodgers.
Turner on Free Agency
Undoubtedly, the Dodgers roster, top to bottom, is hoping for a major move to bolster their World Series dreams. The team took one step forward toward that goal with the signing of Blake Treinen, but they need more. Turner weighed in:
“We have not seen a whole lot. Blake Treinen coming in is really good as a free agent signing for us. I have faced him a few times and don’t want to face him again so I am glad he is on our side. I know these guys are working hard to figure out what the best roster is going to be for us going into next year.”
This free agency period, the Dodgers could lose two of their most beloved in Hyun-Jin Ryu and Rich Hill. Both have yet to sign, but Ryu almost seems unlikely at this juncture. Regardless, the team is excellent without them. However, the Dodgers could benefit from a new face or two or three.
“We didn’t lose a whole lot of guys. Hyun-Jin [Ryu] and Rich Hill left…maybe. We don’t know if they are coming back yet, but we still have a pretty good team. Everyone wants us to go out and get these new shiny, bright objects.”
Overall
The Dodgers still seem poised to make a big move and it was apparent in the words of Justin Turner that a move seems likely. The Dodgers maintain an additional $30 million plus in flexibility under the luxury tax threshold and will look to spend that wisely in the coming weeks and months heading into the 2020 season.
NEXT: Justin Turner Talks About Abrupt End to 2019 Postseason
