The Seattle Mariners are aiming to secure the AL West championship in 2025.
The Seattle Mariners and Justin Turner may be teaming up again, as the two sides are in talks for a potential reunion that would keep the veteran slugger in the Pacific Northwest, according to MLB.com.
“We’ve already spoken with JT and reaffirmed the interest we showed at the end of the season,” said Mariners general manager Justin Hollander.
Turner, an experienced infielder and designated hitter, played for both Seattle and the Toronto Blue Jays during the 2024 season. Mariners management appreciated his ability to quickly connect with new teammates and adapt in Seattle.
“He’s a player who built strong relationships throughout our clubhouse and really connected with our team, our coaches, and our front office,” Hollander said. “We’d love to have JT return.”
Seattle wrapped up the 2024 season with an 85-77 record.
Mariners looking to build a championship caliber roster
The Mariners started the 2024 season strong, but they faltered after the trade deadline, ultimately falling short in the race for the American League West. The Houston Astros clinched the division, leaving Seattle out of the postseason.
Adding Turner to their lineup would bring some power. The slugger wrapped up the 2024 season with a .259 average, 11 home runs, 55 RBIs, and 119 hits—an impressive stat line considering he played for two different teams during the year.
Turner is nearing 40 and has played for multiple MLB teams, including the Baltimore Orioles, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, and Boston Red Sox. He’s a career .285 hitter with 1,580 hits and won a World Series with the Dodgers in 2020.
However, building a championship team requires more than one player. The Mariners faced challenges in relief pitching throughout 2024, and they plan to address bullpen depth this offseason. Mariners GM Hollander noted that strengthening the bullpen is a priority, particularly as some injured players return, which could help turn last year’s solid bullpen back into a strong unit.
Only time will tell how the Mariners choose to rebuild and reload for the 2025 season.
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