dailyloe.com – Justin Turner, a 41-year-old former Los Angeles Dodger, continues to play baseball with the Tijuana Toros. Despite his age, he remains active because no MLB teams have signed him or invited him to spring training.
Turner expressed disappointment at the lack of opportunities. He said, “To not get a non-roster invite, that was tough and disappointing,” as reported by Sam Blum and Dennis Lin of The Athletic.
He acknowledged the changing landscape of baseball, noting that much emphasis is placed on data. “Part of my tool set that I bring, you won’t find on a data sheet,” Turner stated.
At Toros Mobil Park, he is making an impact, even as he believes he is not finished with MLB. Turner has often been mentioned as a potential future coach or manager.
His wife, Kourtney Turner, supports this vision. For now, he remains focused on playing. “I’ve always said I’m going to play as long as I can and make someone rip a jersey off me,” he said.
Turner enjoys the camaraderie of the game and feels good at the plate. He appreciates how much his family loves baseball and attending games.
He emphasized that baseball is a constant in his life. “Whatever it is that I’ll do when I’m done playing isn’t going anywhere,” he stated.
The timing of his transition from player to coach is uncertain. Family is a priority for him, and he wants to ensure he finds the right fit for his next role.
“I definitely think I’ll remain in the game for a long time,” Turner noted. He added that the decision will depend on how much time a new role would take away from his sons.
Ultimately, he remains open to possibilities. “I’m not mapping anything out,” Turner concluded.
