Veteran Justin Turner Expresses Desire to Join Cincinnati Reds
The Cincinnati Reds are exploring options to enhance their offensive lineup this offseason, with free agent Justin Turner recently voicing interest in joining the team. In an interview with The Enquirer’s Gordon Wittenmyer, Turner expressed his admiration for Reds manager Terry Francona, stating, “I’ve always wanted to play for Terry Francona.”
Turner, who played for the Chicago Cubs during the 2025 season, participated in 80 games, finishing with a batting average of .219 and an on-base plus slugging (OPS) of .759 against left-handed pitchers. Despite a challenging season, he demonstrated a strong ability to hit lefties, tallying 10 extra-base hits. His overall performance included a stark contrast; he managed only a .387 OPS against right-handed pitching.
Throughout his extensive career spanning 17 seasons, Turner has suited up for seven different teams, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, Baltimore Orioles, Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, Chicago Cubs, and Seattle Mariners. Known for his positive influence in the clubhouse, Turner could fit into a role similar to that of Santiago Espinal, provided the Reds can negotiate a low-cost contract.
While Turner’s enthusiasm to play for the Reds is evident, the team’s financial constraints may complicate potential negotiations. The Reds have previously struggled to secure high-profile signings, making a deal with Turner uncertain.
As the offseason progresses, Cincinnati fans will be watching closely to see if the Reds can bolster their lineup with experience and talent. For continuous updates and insights on the Reds, following dedicated sources will be essential.
