As Tuesday’s MLB trade deadline approaches, the Seattle Mariners have made a major move.
According to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal, the Mariners have acquired veteran first baseman/designated hitter Justin Turner in a trade with the Toronto Blue Jays.
It’s unclear what Toronto will receive from Seattle in return for the 39-year-old player. Turner was pulled from the Blue Jays’ lineup after starting — and recording a hit — in their matinee matchup against the Baltimore Orioles on Sunday just before news of the trade was first reported.
Mariners acquire Justin Turner, source tells @TheAthletic.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 29, 2024
The Mariners will be counting on the two-time All-Star to provide a consistent bat in their lineup as they remain in a heated battle with the Houston Astros in the American League West Division. Entering Monday, Seattle (56-51) and Houston (55-50) remained tied for first place in the division, with the Mariners facing the Boston Red Sox and the Astros taking on the Pittsburgh Pirates on Monday night.
Best known for his nine-year stint with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Turner spent last season with the Red Sox before signing a one-year, $13 million contract with Toronto this past season. Appearing in 89 games with the Blue Jays, he recorded a .254 batting average (.720 OPS), to go along with six home runs and 31 RBIs.
The 2024 MLB Trade Deadline is set for 6 p.m. ET on Tuesday, July 30.
About Ben Axelrod
Ben Axelrod is a veteran of the sports media landscape, having most recently worked for NBC's Cleveland affiliate, WKYC. Prior to his time in Cleveland, he covered Ohio State football and the Big Ten for outlets including Cox Media Group, Bleacher Report, Scout and Rivals.