On top of his play on the field, Turner’s personality has disarmed what could have been an awkward situation. Corey Seager, a two-time All-Star at shortstop, is eligible for free agency this winter and, as the Dodgers plan out their next steps, has endured speculation about his future. At the very least, Turner, who was Washington’s shortstop but is playing second base for the Dodgers, represents an infield insurance policy for 2022.
“We did it to maximize our chances of winning in ’21,” Friedman said when asked about an ulterior motive in acquiring Turner. “And once we get to this off-season, we’ll wrap our arms around it then.”
Turner was agreeable to the position change and, by all accounts, he and Seager have gotten along well.
“Me and Corey, it’s been great,” Turner said. “He’s an unbelievable player and he’s helped me out a lot just in learning everybody, learning the coaches, learning what they expect of us here. He’s been really good, really professional.”
The bigger challenge, Turner said, has been learning how to play second base.