MESA, Arizona — On Thursday, Justin Turner completed a one-year agreement with the Chicago Cubs worth $6 million, participating in workouts as the team prepares for its first spring training match.
In addition to his base salary, Turner has opportunities to earn up to $2 million through performance bonuses. This includes $1.5 million tied to his number of plate appearances and another $500,000 based on his time spent on the active roster. If he is dealt to another team, an assignment bonus of $500,000 would also be triggered.
Turner, a two-time All-Star third baseman, practiced at first base during Thursday’s session. Last season, he played for both Toronto and Seattle, starting 40 games at first and 4 at third base. He managed a batting average of .259, hitting 11 home runs and driving in 55 runs throughout 139 games while recording a .354 on-base percentage.
“The key aspect at this stage in my career is joining a team that is genuinely invested in winning and prepared to do whatever it takes to compete,” said Turner, emphasizing his desire to reach the playoffs and pursue another championship. “My love for the game, for being around my teammates, and discussing baseball is immense. However, ultimately, it all boils down to winning.”
At 40 years old, Turner brings experience and stability to the Cubs’ infield, especially with young player Matt Shaw facing a left oblique issue this spring. He could also serve as a backup to Michael Busch at first base and step in for Seiya Suzuki as designated hitter.
“Justin has been an effective hitter in the league for many years,” remarked Cubs’ manager Craig Counsell. “Initially, he will likely take on more of a bench role, but we all know that circumstances can change throughout the season.”
Turner’s contract includes a $4 million salary, along with a mutual option worth $10 million and a $2 million buyout. The contract permits Turner to earn incremental bonuses, including $125,000 for reaching 350 plate appearances and additional sums for every additional 25 plate appearances up to 475. He can also secure $250,000 for plate appearances at 500, 525, and 550, alongside $250,000 for maintaining an active roster position for 120 and 150 days.
In the process of making room on the roster, the Cubs designated outfielder Alexander Canario for assignment. Canario, who had exhausted his minor league options, was acquired when the Cubs traded Kris Bryant to the San Francisco Giants in a 2021 deal. The 24-year-old appeared in only 21 games over the past two seasons, posting a batting average of .286 with two home runs and eight RBIs in his limited major league appearances.
The Cubs secured Turner after expressing interest in free agent Alex Bregman, who ultimately signed a three-year, $120 million contract with the Boston Red Sox last week. Over 16 seasons in Major League Baseball, Turner has accumulated a career batting average of .285 while playing for teams including the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, Baltimore, Boston, Toronto, and Seattle. He boasts 198 home runs and 814 RBIs over 1,678 games, having contributed to the Dodgers’ World Series championship in 2020.
