Justin Turner Plans One More Season as Veteran Eyes 2026 Return

After 17 seasons in the majors, Justin Turner’s resume is already one most players can only dream of. The two-time All-Star, World Series champion, 2017 NLCS MVP, and 2022 Roberto Clemente Award winner has carved out a legacy defined by consistency, professionalism, and clutch performances on baseball’s biggest stages. Yet, even as he approaches his 41st birthday, Turner isn’t ready to close the book on his playing career.

Turner’s agent, Greg Genske, confirmed that the veteran intends to continue playing in 2026, according to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi. The announcement came shortly after the Chicago Cubs declined his $10 million team option, officially making him a free agent. Though his age and recent production suggest his market value may be limited, Turner’s leadership and experience remain assets that could attract interest from select clubs.

For Turner, this next step isn’t about financial gain or accolades. It’s about passion for the game — the same drive that helped transform him from a seventh-round pick in 2006 to one of the most respected veterans in Major League Baseball. His willingness to embrace new roles, from starting third baseman to designated hitter and mentor, has allowed him to extend his career well past most peers.

As free agency unfolds, Turner’s future will hinge on whether a team believes he can still contribute meaningfully — not just in the box score, but in the clubhouse. His history of postseason success and reputation for professionalism may prove too valuable for a rebuilding team to ignore.

1. From Star Performer to Seasoned Mentor

Turner’s recent years tell a story of transition. Once a centerpiece of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ powerhouse lineup, he has spent the past few seasons adapting to part-time duties and mentoring younger players. That shift became even more evident during his stint with the Cubs, where he appeared in only 80 games and struggled offensively. He finished the 2025 season slashing .219/.288/.314 with just three home runs and 18 RBIs — far from the steady production that defined his prime. For an organization with postseason aspirations, those numbers made it difficult to justify picking up his $10 million option. Still, the Cubs praised Turner’s leadership and professionalism, acknowledging his influence on a roster that leaned heavily on emerging talent. Executives around the league now face a familiar dilemma: how to evaluate an aging star whose impact extends beyond his statistics. Turner’s bat speed and power may no longer be what they once were, but his approach, discipline, and clubhouse presence remain highly regarded across the league. Teams like the Pittsburgh Pirates or Colorado Rockies — both in phases of rebuilding — could view Turner as an ideal veteran mentor. With his experience, work ethic, and deep understanding of situational hitting, he could serve as a stabilizing influence on young lineups still learning how to navigate the grind of a full MLB season.

2. A Career Built on Consistency and Character

Few players have reinvented themselves the way Justin Turner did. After bouncing between the Orioles and Mets early in his career, he found his stride with the Dodgers, evolving into one of baseball’s most dependable contact hitters and clutch postseason performers. His playoff resume is elite — 87 postseason games, numerous timely hits, and a reputation as a steadying presence in pressure moments. Turner’s impact wasn’t limited to his play. He became a cornerstone of the Dodgers’ clubhouse culture, earning praise for his leadership and philanthropy, culminating in the Roberto Clemente Award for his community work in 2022. That same spirit of mentorship continues to define his role in the league, even as his on-field production wanes. His teammates often credit him for fostering unity and professionalism in the clubhouse. During his time in Los Angeles and Chicago, younger players spoke of Turner’s willingness to share knowledge — whether it was studying pitchers, refining swing mechanics, or understanding the mental side of the game. Those intangible qualities could be exactly what rebuilding franchises seek to instill in their next generation of stars. If Turner does secure another contract, it’s likely to be for a modest salary and a clear role as a clubhouse leader. In many ways, it would be a fitting final act for a player whose career has been defined as much by his influence on others as by his own achievements.

3. Chasing One More Moment in the Sun

Whether Justin Turner’s playing days continue beyond 2026 remains uncertain, but his competitive spirit is as strong as ever. He’s aware that his opportunities will be limited, and that his future role will likely come with fewer at-bats and more mentoring responsibilities. Yet for Turner, simply being part of the game still carries deep meaning. Turner’s mindset mirrors that of many great veterans who extend their careers not for glory, but for love of the game. His ability to maintain perspective and humility while adapting to new realities has earned him universal respect throughout the sport. Even if his next contract is his last, it represents a chance to leave the game on his own terms. For teams seeking more than just on-field production — looking instead for culture-setters and mentors — Turner offers rare value. His experience in championship environments, combined with his deep understanding of what it takes to win, makes him an ideal addition to any clubhouse looking to build a winning mindset. As the offseason unfolds, the question isn’t just whether Justin Turner can still hit — it’s whether baseball can afford to lose one of its most respected veterans before he’s ready to walk away.