The Chicago Cubs’ season took a decisive turn this week. Following an 18-12 start punctuated by a commanding win over the Pittsburgh Pirates, the team looked like a legitimate NL Central leader. Even with the loss of Justin Steele for the year, the Cubs’ offense had surged, powered by standout performances from Kyle Tucker and the breakout of Pete Crow-Armstrong.
But while the momentum was largely positive, the front office recognized it couldn’t afford to carry any dead weight in a tight National League race. And on May 1, the Cubs made a clear statement: they officially parted ways with Justin Turner, ending what had been one of their most questionable offseason experiments.
Justin Turner’s Time in Chicago Comes to an End
When the Cubs signed Turner over the winter, the move made sense on paper. With Matt Shaw untested at third base and Michael Busch still adjusting to full-time MLB play, the veteran seemed like a stabilizing force. After all, he was coming off a 128 OPS+ season with Seattle in 2024.
But that hoped-for production never materialized in Chicago. In 53 plate appearances, Turner slashed just .163/.283/.163 — with no extra-base hits. While his eye at the plate remained sharp, the lack of offensive impact was glaring.
Meanwhile, the Cubs found better alternatives. Though Shaw struggled in his debut, utilitymen Jon Berti and Vidal Brujan began contributing both offensively and defensively. Their speed and versatility gave the team a clear edge over Turner, who offered little beyond veteran experience.
Even manager Craig Counsell appeared to see the writing on the wall, sitting Turner against a left-handed pitcher earlier this week — a situation he would have been penciled into earlier in his career.
Ultimately, the Cubs chose performance over pedigree. By cutting ties with Turner, they freed up a roster spot for a more dynamic contributor as they continue to chase an NL pennant.
