Justin Turner's Mutual Option Declined; Becomes a Free Agent

[Matthew Lenz]

The Chicago Cubs have been busy in the first four-plus days of the offseason, with moves painting a picture of what might come over the next four months. They declined Shota Imanaga's option, extended Colin Rea, and now have lost an infielder.

Via an official announcement from the MLBPA, Justin Turner has become a free agent. It's unclear which side declined the option, though it was nearly a given that the Cubs would be the party to do so. They will pay him a $2 million buyout instead of a $10 million salary in 2026.

The 41-year-old struggled mightily in 2025, posting a .602 OPS with three home runs and two stolen bases. That production, or lack thereof, resulted in a .268 wOBA and 71 wRC+ across 191 plate appearances. Given his age and the 2025 season, he will likely hope for a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training if he doesn't choose to retire.

Between this move and Imanaga's, the Cubs are opening up the budget for this offseason. Do you anticipate them spending? If so, where? Let us know in the comments!

 

 

View full rumor

[Irrelevant Dude]

Who will be next year's version of the overpriced, washed up veteran hitter that we want to DFA by May?

[Post Count Padder]

3 hours ago, Irrelevant Dude said:

Who will be next year's version of the overpriced, washed up veteran hitter that we want to DFA by May?

We already acquired Carlos Santana once this year. Let's do it again!

[Tangled Up in Plaid]

6 hours ago, Irrelevant Dude said:

Who will be next year's version of the overpriced, washed up veteran hitter that we want to DFA by May?

Phillies are probably gonna release Castellanos so he might be available.

[BigSlick]

Turner did have one big walk off hit so I can't be entirely upset with the move, but man, the Cubs do have a tendency to set our expectations low 

[Post Count Padder]

9 minutes ago, BigSlick said:

Turner did have one big walk off hit so I can't be entirely upset with the move, but man, the Cubs do have a tendency to set our expectations low 

The bench looked awful on paper entering the season and then, by some miracle, it looked awful in reality.

[chibears55]

On 11/6/2025 at 11:05 AM, Irrelevant Dude said:

Who will be next year's version of the overpriced, washed up veteran hitter that we want to DFA by May?

Whomever it is, he'll start the season in RF until Caissie comes up..lol