Recently signed Seattle Mariners veteran Justin Turner is making an immediate impact both on and off the field, showing he’s much more than just a late-career addition. The 39-year-old first baseman/designated hitter, who joined the Mariners last week in Boston, has quickly taken on a leadership role, particularly with the younger players as the team pushes toward the playoffs.
Turner expressed his intention to be a stabilizing presence in the clubhouse. “I’m here to be a calming voice, someone the guys can approach easily with any questions or situations,” he explained. With a career filled with various challenges including multiple trades and team changes, Turner brings a wealth of experience.
Surprisingly, it was not a younger player but veteran Mitch Haniger, 33, who first publicly acknowledged Turner’s positive influence. After a pivotal game where Haniger had a walk-off walk against the Phillies, he praised Turner in an interview. “Talking with Turner has been a big help,” Haniger stated, noting he has long admired and studied Turner’s approach at the plate.
This kind of mentorship echoes what Carlos Santana provided last season, contributing not only key hits but also vital clubhouse leadership as the Mariners ended a 21-year playoff drought. While Santana’s batting average wasn’t high, his strategic plays and on-base capabilities proved crucial.
Turner showed his knack for timely hitting right from the start, hitting an RBI single in his first at-bat as a Mariner and following up with a grand slam during his home debut—a 10-2 victory over the Phillies at T-Mobile Park.
Seattle Sports pundits Brock and Salk discussed Turner’s potential continued influence, likening his role to a seasoned, knowledgeable presence needed in the clubhouse. “If Turner can impact even one player like Haniger, that alone validates his addition,” noted analyst Huard.
The conversation also turned to another struggling veteran, Mitch Garver, who has had a challenging season offensively since signing a significant contract in the offseason. Adjustments in his role have not sparked the hoped-for improvement, and he faced harsh online attacks. As the Mariners look for solutions, including possibly benefiting from Turner’s mentorship, there’s hope he can regain his form.
Justin Turner’s early days with the Mariners suggest he could be exactly what the team needs, whether through clutch hits or invaluable leadership, making his acquisition potentially transformational as Seattle eyes another postseason run.
