Justin Turner, a professional baseball player known for his time with the Los Angeles Dodgers, began his Major League Baseball (MLB) career with the Baltimore Orioles. Drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in the seventh round of the 2006 MLB Draft, Turner was traded to the Orioles in 2008. He made his MLB debut with Baltimore in 2009, but his time there was brief, as he was claimed off waivers by the New York Mets in 2010.
During his tenure with the Mets, Turner started to gain recognition for his abilities on the field. He played multiple infield positions, primarily second and third base, and became known for his reliable bat and solid defense. In 2011, Turner had a breakout season, hitting .260 with 51 RBIs and earning a reputation as a dependable player. However, after the 2013 season, the Mets released him, making him a free agent.
Turner's career took a significant turn when he signed a minor league contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2014. Initially seen as a utility player, he quickly proved his worth and became an integral part of the Dodgers' lineup. His batting average soared to .340 in 2014, and he continued to perform at a high level in subsequent seasons. Turner's ability to hit for average and power, combined with his defensive skills, made him a valuable asset to the team.
In 2015, Turner solidified his role as the Dodgers' starting third baseman. He hit .294 with 16 home runs and 60 RBIs, helping the team reach the postseason. Over the next few years, Turner continued to be a consistent performer for the Dodgers, both in the regular season and the playoffs. His postseason heroics became a hallmark of his career, with memorable performances in the National League Championship Series (NLCS) and the World Series.
One of Turner's most memorable moments came during the 2017 NLCS, when he hit a walk-off home run in Game 2 against the Chicago Cubs. This home run was reminiscent of Kirk Gibson's iconic 1988 World Series homer, further endearing Turner to Dodgers fans. That year, Turner was also named the co-Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the NLCS, sharing the honor with teammate Chris Taylor.
Turner's consistency at the plate and leadership on the field were instrumental in the Dodgers' success during his tenure. In 2020, he played a crucial role in helping the team win their first World Series title since 1988. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and a shortened season, Turner remained a steady presence in the lineup, contributing key hits throughout the postseason.
Throughout his career with the Dodgers, Turner was known for his distinctive red hair and beard, as well as his charitable work off the field. He became a fan favorite not only for his on-field performance but also for his community involvement, including his work with the Justin Turner Foundation, which supports homeless veterans and children battling life-altering illnesses.
Turner's career statistics reflect his consistent performance over the years. By the end of the 2021 season, he had accumulated over 1,200 hits, 150 home runs, and a career batting average of .289. His ability to perform in clutch situations and his leadership qualities made him a respected figure in the Dodgers' clubhouse.
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