Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Justin Turner is one of the sought-after free agents that is still available on the trade market. And it seems that he could be heading to the St. Louis Cardinals this offseason after playing for the Dodgers for 3 years.
The Cardinals have an 86-76 record last season, one win short of making it to the wildcard on the National League division. And now, the team seems to be in a rebuilding process and trying to redeem themselves from last season failure. Now, they are showing interest in bringing in Turner to enhance their roster for next year.
According to MLB Trade Rumors, though it's not clear if the St. Louis Cardinals have contacted Justin Turner's agent, the interest of signing him is still on the table. The Cards also decided to shuffle their rotation putting Matt Carpenter in first base, Kolten Wong at second, Aledmys Diaz at short, and Jedd Gyorko and Jhonny Peralta in third and middle.
Turner, who revitalize his career with the Dodgers, have .275 averages, 27 home runs, 90 RBI and .339 OBP in 151 games last season will certainly boost the offense and defense of the team. However, the Cards must unload Peralta in order to make room for Turner in the lineup as per stated in the report. If that happen, Turner will be a good upgrade as Peralta's replacement at third base.
Turner might look a lucrative contract in the trade market expecting a five-year, $85 million deal but if the Cards be able to find a taker for Peralta having Turner won't be a problem. And if the Cards be able to obtain Turner, this will also cost them a draft pick in the process.
On a separate report by Fansided, aside from offense, Turner is also known for his defense. He is one who steadied the defense of Dodgers on third base making them fourth-best defensively last season. Ever since he left the New York Mets in 2013, Turner evolves into a true middle-of-the-order hitter for the Dodgers which the Cards can benefit if ever he'll be acquired by them.
Will St. Louis Cardinals lure Los Angeles Dodgers' Justin Turner to join them this offseason?
