The Los Angeles Dodgers currently have a void at shortstop with Trea Turner a free agent for the first time in his career.
The position is similar to what the Dodgers experienced last year with Corey Seager, although in that instance they had a perennial All-Star in Turner readily available to fill the need. Now, however, the Dodgers don’t have such luxury.
Turner is part of a star-studded class of free-agent shortstops that also includes Xander Bogaerts and Carlos Correa. Dansby Swanson is another noteworthy shortstop on the open market.
The Dodgers have interest in re-signing Turner but it’s not considered a likely outcome.
That’s a sentiment “Dodger Talk” host David Vassegh reiterated while also revealing the Atlanta Braves have joined the Chicago Cubs and Philadelphia Phillies as teams with interest in Turner, as seen on SportsNet LA
“Unfortunately I do. I just think he’s going to command so much money, and first time on the free agent market, and he deserves it. I mean, he’s one of the best players the last year in the regular season. He’s a shortstop that can hit 30 home runs, part of the big three for the Dodgers. From what I’ve been told, John, the Braves, the Cubs, the Phillies, all very much interested in Trea Turner.”
Although the Braves have been linked to Turner, most assume they would re-sign Swanson rather than pursue one of the other top shortstops.
Meanwhile, the Cubs and Phillies have been mentioned in Turner rumors for several weeks. During the season, Bryce Harper said he was looking forward to Turner becoming a free agent, which was taken as a bit of recruitment on behalf of the Phillies.
Dodgers compensation for Trea Turner
Because Turner rejected the $19.65 million qualifying offer from the Dodgers, they would receive a compensation pick after the fourth round of the 2023 MLB Draft if he signs elsewhere.
L.A. has already netted an additional draft pick due to Tyler Anderson declining he qualifying offer before signing a three-year, $39 million contract with the Los Angeles Angels.
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