Justin Turner departed the Los Angeles Dodgers primarily because the Dodgers declined his $16 million option for the 2023 season, which subsequently made him a free agent.
The Decision to Decline
Following the conclusion of the 2022 MLB season, the Dodgers made the strategic decision not to exercise the club option on Justin Turner's contract. This move effectively released him from the team, allowing him to explore opportunities with other organizations as a free agent.
Turner's Journey After the Dodgers
After becoming a free agent, Turner continued his professional baseball career, signing with new teams in the subsequent seasons:
- 2023 Season: He played for the Boston Red Sox.
- 2024 Season: He initially signed with the Toronto Blue Jays earlier in the year, but was later traded to the Seattle Mariners last month.
Even with his departure, the deep connection and impact Turner had on the Dodgers organization and its fanbase remain evident. Manager Dave Roberts, reflecting on Turner's time with the team, expressed a common sentiment: "In my emotional side, I wish he was a Dodger forever." This highlights that the separation was a business decision regarding his contract option rather than a desire to part ways with a beloved player.
