Dodgers’ Emotional Reunion: Playing Against Justin Turner Sparks a Unique Blend of ‘Different’ Feelings and ‘Exciting’ Competition, Highlighting the Bonds Forged in Championship Pursuits
Justin Turner began his 17th season in the Majors on Tuesday as the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs went head-to-head in the Tokyo Series.
A member of the Dodgers from 2014-2022, Turner was beloved by the organization and fanbase as he grew from a non-roster invitee to a two-time All-star and World Series champion.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts had nothing but positive things to say about Turner, whom he coached for seven seasons, and expressed how he is feeling with the opportunity to manage against his former player in the Tokyo Series.
“I have a ton of respect for him. He’s one of the players I was closest to. He’s had a great career. It’s different competing against him, but it’s still exciting,” Roberts said.
This season marks the beginning of Turner’s third since he and the Dodgers parted ways in 2022. He signed a one-year, $6 million contract with the Cubs in the offseason, marking the fourth organization he has been a part of in three seasons.
Turner has expressed interest in one day returning to the Dodgers in any capacity, whether that be on the field or some type of advisory role.
“That’s not really up to me all the way. It’s a two-way street,” Turner said last year.
“Would I like to work here someday? I’m from Southern California, I think it’s a great place to be, it’s a great place to play. Obviously, if that opportunity presented itself, it would be something that I really, really took into consideration.”
Given Roberts’ opinion of him and the respect he commands within the organization, it would not be surprising to see Turner take on a role with the Dodgers after retiring.
Justin Turner’s fit on the Cubs’ 2025 roster
Turner isn’t the threat at the plate that he once was, but he can still hold his own. He batted .259/.354/.383 in 139 games between the Toronto Blue Jays and Seattle Mariners in 2024. Turner is best served as a designated hitter at this point in his career, but can get by as a first baseman with 43 games played there last season.
His most important contributions will come as a veteran presence and proven winner in the clubhouse as the Cubs try to make the postseason for the first time since 2020. Turner can even serve as a possible mentor for top Cubs prospect Matt Shaw, who made his MLB debut at third base on Opening Day.
