Cubs Eye Justin Turner as Bregman Decision Looms

MESA, Ariz. — The Chicago Cubs are weighing the addition of veteran free agent Justin Turner as they explore options for their roster ahead of the 2025 season. As spring training begins, league sources have reported that the Cubs remain interested in Turner, especially if fellow free agent Alex Bregman signs with another team.

Turner, who turns 40 this season, carries a notable reputation as a right-handed hitter with a career .821 OPS. He has extensive postseason experience, having played in 19 playoff series during his tenure with the Los Angeles Dodgers. While currently no longer an everyday third baseman, Turner provides versatility, being capable of playing both first base and serving as a designated hitter.

Multiple teams, including the Boston Red Sox and Detroit Tigers, have also shown interest in Turner as well as Bregman. The Red Sox, however, are well-stocked with players such as Rafael Devers and Triston Casas, while the Tigers seem committed to developing younger talent.

Turner and his wife Kourtney, originally from Indiana, have expressed enthusiasm about potentially spending the summer in Chicago. For Turner, joining the Cubs would complete a big-market circle after stints with the Dodgers, Red Sox, and New York Mets throughout his 16-year career.

Earlier this offseason, the Seattle Mariners pursued Turner but ultimately signed Donovan Solano instead. The Cincinnati Reds had also expressed interest in the veteran infielder.

Financially, the Cubs have a budget that aligns with Turner’s contract expectations. Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts indicated that the team’s payroll is projected around the $241 million luxury-tax threshold, with approximately $209 million already committed for the season, according to FanGraphs.

In evaluating options, the Cubs have identified Bregman as a significant addition to their lineup. If they can negotiate a shorter-term deal, similar to the contract of outfielder Cody Bellinger, it could be a strategic move as they continue their multi-year rebuild.

If the Cubs fail to secure Bregman, top prospect Matt Shaw will likely be positioned to start at third base. Manager Craig Counsell emphasized Shaw’s readiness, stating, ‘Matt’s passed a lot of tests. He’s a talented young player. The message is, Matt’s got a shot at it. There’s no question about it.’ Shaw is expected to receive the first opportunity to claim the role, unless Bregman comes into the fold.

Cubs insiders suggest that Turner’s addition would serve primarily as a backup, especially if Shaw requires more time to develop in the minor leagues. Options in camp for third base include Jon Berti, Vidal Bruján, Nicky Lopez, and Gage Workman, though these players are viewed as depth rather than substantial starters.

Last season, Turner enjoyed a solid run with the Toronto Blue Jays and Seattle Mariners, hitting .259 with 11 home runs and 55 RBIs. His experience and right-handed batting could bolster the Cubs’ lineup, which seeks to enhance its competitive standing in the National League Central.

As spring training progresses, the Cubs will continue to monitor the market developments surrounding Turner and Bregman, weighing their need for immediate performance against the future potential of their young prospects.