Fan favorite declines 2024 player option, becomes a free agent
Justin Turner will test free agency this winter, could return back to the Red Sox
Red Sox slugger Justin Turner declined his $13.4 million player options and will become a free agent.
Turner was expected to opt-out of his deal because he was set to receive a $6.7 million buyout. The first baseman/DH will make more than that total in free agency this winter.
Turner will turn 39 on Nov. 23 and is coming off a successful season with the Red Sox. He batted .276 with an .800 OPS with 31 doubles, 23 homers, 86 runs, 96 RBIs and 51 walks in 146 games (626 plate appearances). The veteran started 98 games at DH, 35 at first base, seven at third base and four at second base.
In total, he earned $8.3 million last season and now the $6.7 million buyout.
The Red Sox are reportedly interested in bringing Turner back, he will likely command a one-year deal, plus an option in free agency.
Boston is unable to offer Turner the $20.35 million qualifying offer, closing the door on receiving a compensatory draft pick if he lands in another city for 2024.
Turner is ineligible for the qualifying offer because he received one from the Dodgers in 2016 and MLB rules dictate a player can only receive it once in their career.
Turner and Corey Kluber will become free agents effective this Monday, Nov. 6th. Adam Duvall, Adalberto Mondesi and James Paxton have also elected free agency.
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