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Cubs' Ian Happ Sends Message on Justin Turner Signing

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Daniel Fisher | Last updated Feb 18, 2025 2:45 PM ET

The Chicago Cubs made a free agency splash on Tuesday morning, signing 40-year-old infielder Justin Turner on a one-year deal.

Turner is a 16-year veteran and most recently spent time with the Toronto Blue Jays and Seattle Mariners last season, finishing the year with a .259 batting average, 11 home runs, and 55 RBI.

Chicago was looking to add another infielder this offseason. After Alex Bregman signed with the Boston Sox last week, the Cubs weren't waiting to see how the rest of the free agency or trades would play out.

When a team adds a player so late in the offseason, it could bring mixed reactions from players in the clubhouse, but Cubs star outfielder Ian Happ seems happy about his new teammate.

"I'm pumped. Been a fan of his for a long time." Happ stated about Turner to reporters Tuesday afternoon.

“Any time you can lean on guys who have done a lot in the game … it’s a huge asset.”

Ian Happ on Justin Turner’s ability to impact young players. pic.twitter.com/X8NCB9dZ8M
— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) February 18, 2025

Adding a veteran like Turner always has an upside because even though he is 40 and at the end of his career, he brings a winning culture to the clubhouse.

Turner is a two-time All-Star and has appeared in three World Series, one of which the Los Angeles Dodgers won in 2020.

The Cubs have been so close to making the playoffs the past few seasons, and maybe a veteran like Turner, who knows how to win in the fall, will help Wrigley Field return to more meaningful baseball this October.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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