Predicting free agency destinations for Justin Turner if he leaves Mariners

Justin Turner's upcoming free agency will be one of the more underrated situations to follow. On the tail of registering a .737 OPS (lowest since 2013), Turner is still a somewhat productive bat even though the veteran infielder is turning 40 years old in November.

Turner struggled mightily in Toronto, but his move to Seattle saw an increase in offensive production. In 48 games with Seattle, he nearly replicated his output in 91 games with the Blue Jays.

Turner said wants to play Major League Baseball in 2025 and would not mind a return to the Mariners. He is among several M's who are free agents, and although he is interested in playing for Seattle again, there's always a chance another contender swoops in to acquire a battle-tested veteran for their team in 2025.

Predicting free agency destinations for Justin Turner if doesn't re-sign with Mariners

The first thing to consider is that Turner is likely a designated hitter now. He could pick up a few games at first base, but he will more than likely be signed as a DH. This can actually benefit him, considering all teams are always in search of a bat, especially these clubs.

New York Mets

JD Martinez is a free agent and a return to Queens may not be in the cards. As for Turner ... how about a return to where it all began?! He didn't blossom until his 30s when he was with the Dodgers, which had Mets fans feel cheated by his late adjustments to big-league pitching. Would Mets fans want this? At this point, they'll take anything helpful to build off of their 2024 NLCS run.

Texas Rangers

Another intriguing team for Turner could be the Rangers. With Travis Jankowski going into free agency, Texas could look for a cheaper offensive option to complete a loaded lineup (and expensive payroll). Also, the Rangers have a bevy of young talent in players like Evan Carter, Josh Jung and Wyatt Langford, all of whom could all benefit from Turner being in the clubhouse.

There is veteran leadership in Marcus Semien and Corey Seager, but adding another guy like Turner is only helping the postseason experience. Turner is one of the greatest postseason hitters of the last two decades, so as Texas looks to rebound from a dreadful season, acquiring Turner won't turn the ship around, but his presence may be valuable beyond his play.

Anything could happen in free agency, and sometimes players don't want to move from city to city as they age. An older Turner may not want to bounce to another organization, so signing back with Seattle may just be the easiest option.

If he doesn't though, these two other franchises could definitely use him.