Detroit Tigers free agent profile: Justin Turner

Detroit Tigers have to consider signing Justin Turner.

The Detroit Tigers went through Winter Meetings being pretty quiet. Their choices led to a rather disappointing finish to things out in San Diego. The big move was trading Joe Jiménez to the Atlanta Braves.

While the team also added Matthew Boyd and picked up two arms in the Rule 5 Draft, the Detroit Tigers did not address some of their other needs. One of the ways that Scott Harris and company could jazz things up a bit is to target Justin Turner.

I'll be the first to admit I am not 100% sold on Turner being the "right" guy, but he's a bigger name who could fill a void in the team's lineup. The issue is signing a 38-year-old infielder who may not have much left in the tank. But there seems to be a belief that Scott Harris will build talent from within as time goes on.

Signing Turner to a heftier one or two-year contract gives the lineup a decent boost and adds a right-handed bat for the lineup. Plus, Turner fills the void at third base that is currently going to be filled by Ryan Kreidler and possibly Spencer Torkelson if he indeed does shift his position.

While Harris said he will earmark time for the younger players to get appearances, Turner would bring a nice veteran presence with the bat to pair. That being said, let's dive into what Turner offers to the Tigers.

Turner has spent the last nine seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers, being one of the team's consistent bats over the years. In 2022, Turner slashed .278/.350/.438 with 36 doubles and 13 home runs, managing 81 RBI for the Dodgers.

He's a real hitter, and the Dodgers have to be happy with his performances with the team during his tenure. He's a two-time all-star receiving MVP votes in three different seasons. He's a contributor who would still bring benefits to the Tigers lineup in 2023.

The Tigers are in need of a third baseman to work with Kreidler, and whoever else gets reps in at the hot corner on the prospect side of things. Turner knows his way around the position and would be able to help show the ropes to some of these younger players.

While there may be some better options out there in terms of age, Turner would provide a boost for the Tigers if he were targeted as a free agent. With things being a bit underwhelming in San Diego, this might be a chance for Scott Harris and his crew to add a piece to the puzzle.