With the scheduled start of 2021 Spring Training on the horizon, the Los Angeles Dodgers still have plenty of work to do in rounding out their roster.
The club currently has a gaping hole at third base with Justin Turner unsigned. The 36-year-old has long been viewed as likely to remain with the Dodgers, but the sides have been unable to agree to terms on a new contract.
In addition to the Dodgers, Turner has drawn interest from the Atlanta Braves, Toronto Blue Jays, Milwaukee Brewers and New York Mets. Should he depart as a free agent, L.A. could look to replace him externally or with players already on the roster.
One internal candidate is Edwin Rios, who has made the most of his limited opportunities off the bench since debuting in 2019. Rios received the bulk of his opportunities at third base last season, but is also capable of playing first base.
Though a fit on paper, Rios bats left-handed, and the Dodgers would like to add another right-handed hitter or two before Opening Day. It’s primarily the reason why manager Dave Roberts doesn’t believe the 26-year-old would be a suitable replacement for Turner, via MLB Network Radio:
“I do love the way we have Edwin Rios. Rios has kind of come of age, but that right-handed bat is something with need, and Justin is somebody I certainly value.”
Not only does Rios bat left-handed, but he would also be a step down defensively from Turner. Rios’ power bat may play better off the bench or designated hitter if it returns to the National League this season.
Turner’s importance extends beyond not only still being a productive player on the field, but additionally is an important figure inside the clubhouse and the community.
Turner remains Roberts’ priority as Dodgers search for right-handed bat
While the Dodgers have been linked to several right-handed bats this offseason, Roberts reiterated that Turner is his first preference. “He’s way up there. He’s way up there,” Roberts said in December.
“I think what Justin does on the field, in the clubhouse, in the community, he’s one of the Dodger greats. He really is. It’s been six years he’s been with the Dodgers, and he’s in that elite company.
“His body of work is really special and unique. But it’s a two-way deal here: it’s the Dodgers and Justin and his family. For me, selfishly, I’ll take him for as long as I can have him.”
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