The Dodgers have activated Justin Turner from their 10-day injured list, the team announced. Right-hander Josh Sborz has been optioned to the alternate training site to create an open roster spot.
Turner was enjoying another productive season when he was placed on the IL (retroactively) on August 29 with a left hamstring strain. Turner has a .282/.384/.410 slash line and two home runs over 138 plate appearances, and while his slugging percentage is down from its usual standard, Statcast metrics indicate Turner is in the 92nd percentile in XSLG and is making as much hard contact as ever.
Looking bigger-picture, some good numbers over the season’s last two weeks would also help bolster Turner’s case going into free agency. Turner turns 36 in November and thus isn’t a candidate for a truly long-term contract, though there isn’t much evidence he is slowing down. Despite the Dodgers’ crowded infield situation, one would think that L.A. would still be interested in another new contract with Turner given the team’s obvious regard for his ability and their love of roster depth.
With Turner back, the Dodgers now have their full complement of position players healthy as they head towards another postseason berth. Turner is expected to resume his regular spot at third base, though it wouldn’t be a surprise if Los Angeles gives him a few extra DH days to ease him back into action.
So was JT still on the injured list from his injury he got in Texas? If so, I’m suprised it took that long of a stint.
He’s an older player. No doubt they were being cautious to ensure he will be available in the postseason. I doubt they foresaw the Padres nipping at their heels at this point.
Also, the rest of the regular season doesn’t matter for the Dodgers. They just need to win in the playoffs. Get him healthy. Full stop.
The Padres are close enough to them that the rest of the regular season means the difference between being the number one or the number four playoff seed.
The Padres close out the regular season against the Mariners and the Angels. The Dodgers get to play the A’s. It makes a difference.
and the angels. dodgers finish with the halos
The question is will Dr. Zaius want to quarantine in the bubble?
Finally Tustin Jurner has comeback to Los Angeles
Great to have Turner back. Muncy’s D has been sinking along with his batting average. Guy needs a few days to get his head straight. A 10 day IL stint would be helpful for him, I think. Time for the Dodgers to start stepping their game up.