Cubs' Nico Hoerner Shows Why Justin Turner Is Still Around

When the Chicago Cubs signed 40-year-old Justin Turner to a one-year, $6 million deal this offseason, it was unclear where he would fit in on the team.

With top prospect Matt Shaw manning the hot corner for Opening Day, Turner figured to be nothing more than a reserve veteran who could mentor the rookie and spell starting first baseman Michael Busch.

Despite Turner’s lackluster slugging, his Cubs teammates know his value extends far beyond the diamond and his occasional designated hitter opportunities.

Here is what second baseman Nico Hoerner had to say on his new teammate, via Marquee Sports Network:

For all of the excitement and potential with this team, they are still relatively young. Key contributors like Busch (27), Horner (28), Pete Crow-Armstrong (23), and Kyle Tucker (28) are mostly established players by now, but can always benefit from someone such as Turner and his vast baseball wisdom.

Turner may have a .203 batting average, a .541 OPS, and a 58 OPS+, but his versatility and leadership have made Chicago’s cheap investment worthwhile. Turner also has familiarity with big markets. He launched his career with the New York Mets from 2010-13 before moving to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

It was in Los Angeles where Turner established himself as a marquee hitter in this league and helped the Dodgers to three National League pennants, including a COVID World Series victory in 2020.

In the twilight days of his playing time, he has bounced around the Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Seattle Mariners before joining the Cubs this winter.

Even with Turner’s prime production feeling like a distant memory, he is the type of veteran every clubhouse needs, and his impact will be felt all summer.