Justin Turner nearing return to Red Sox lineup
Just 10 days after being hit by a pitch in the face, Justin Turner is progressing toward a return to the Boston Red Sox lineup.
Turner has been working out the past few days and is expected to face live pitching for the first time today. He could be back in the lineup as soon as Monday.
Detroit Tigers right-hander Matt Manning hit Turner with a pitch in the first inning of the teams' spring training game on March 7. Turner immediately hit the ground and was visibly bleeding before leaving the field with trainers. He was transported to a local hospital for observation and treatment.
Fortunately for all, Turner only needed 16 stitches. There were no other serious injury concerns.
Turner, 38, signed with Boston as a free agent in January after nine seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He is a .289/.366/.466 hitter over a 14-year career. Most of that career has been spent playing third base, but Turner is capable of playing elsewhere in the infield, giving Boston some depth along with the veteran leadership he'll bring to the clubhouse.
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