Former Red Sox Slugger Reportedly Makes Big Retirement Decision
What does the future hold for Justin Turner?
The Boston Red Sox are set to embark on a busy offseason, but they aren’t the only ones who are set for a hectic next few months. Players across the league will be finding new homes very soon, and one guy who could be on the move once again is veteran slugger Justin Turner.
In his 17th MLB season, Turner latched on with the Chicago Cubs last season and was primarily used against left-handed pitchers. It wasn’t a great year for Turner, though, as he hit just .219 with three home runs and 18 RBIs over 80 games.
Turner previously spent the 2023 season with the Red Sox, where he hit .276 with 23 home runs and 96 RBIs as the team’s primary designated hitter. After finishing up his age-40 season, though, it’s clear that retirement is on the horizon for Turner.
However, it sounds like he’s not done playing baseball just yet. According to reports, Turner intends to play again in 2026, even as he prepares to turn 41 years old later in the month of November.
“Free agent Justin Turner plans to play in 2026, according to his agent, Greg Genske,” Jon Morosi of MLB Network reported. “Turner, who turns 41 (this) month, posted a .759 OPS against left-handed pitching for the Cubs this year.”
Should he continue playing, Turner would hit free agency once again this offseason after the Cubs declined his team option last week. While he’s not the player he once was, he’s still a valuable platoon option who can be used primarily against left-handed pitching.
A return to Boston probably isn’t in the cards for Turner, but you can never say never. Instead, the front office is expected to look to make some big moves this offseason in an effort to help the team build off of its unexpected playoff appearance in 2025.
