Justin Turner, the versatile infielder and former third baseman of the Los Angeles Dodgers, has been a key figure in Major League Baseball (MLB) for over a decade. His stellar performances on the field, combined with his leadership skills, have earned him not only recognition but also substantial financial rewards. In this article, we delve deep into Justin Turner salary, career earnings, and the trajectory of his contracts, aiming to provide a comprehensive breakdown of his earnings over the years.
Justin Turner’s Early Career and Initial Contracts
Before becoming a household name, Justin Turner began his career with humble beginnings. Drafted in the 7th round of the 2006 MLB Draft by the Cincinnati Reds, Turner’s initial contracts were modest compared to what he would earn later in his career. Like many rookies in the MLB, Turner’s early salaries reflected his entry-level status.
Turner made his debut with the Baltimore Orioles in 2009. At this point in his career, he was still earning close to the league minimum, a figure that hovered around $400,000 to $500,000. His early seasons didn’t bring significant earnings, but this would soon change as he continued to develop his game.
The Dodgers Era: Breakout Performance and Salary Increase
It wasn’t until 2014, when Justin Turner joined the Los Angeles Dodgers, that his career and salary began to take off. Turner’s performance with the Dodgers turned heads, and his contributions were critical to the team’s success. His improved statistics, leadership on and off the field, and clutch performances in the postseason made him an invaluable asset to the team.
By 2017, Turner had firmly established himself as one of the premier third basemen in the league. In recognition of his value, the Dodgers signed him to a 4-year, $64 million contract, which averaged $16 million per year. This contract marked a significant turning point in Turner’s career, as it positioned him among the top earners at his position.
Key Contract Highlights with the Dodgers:
- 2017-2020 Contract: 4 years, $64 million
- Average Annual Salary: $16 million
- Performance Bonuses: In addition to his base salary, Turner had several performance-based incentives, including bonuses for All-Star selections and postseason achievements.
2021 Free Agency and Subsequent Contract
After the 2020 season, Turner entered free agency once again. His performance in the 2020 World Series, where the Dodgers clinched their first championship since 1988, further solidified his value. Turner was instrumental in their postseason run, which boosted his market demand. Several teams showed interest, but Turner ultimately chose to re-sign with the Dodgers.
In February 2021, Turner agreed to a 2-year, $34 million contract with the Dodgers, including an option for a third year. This deal came with an average annual salary of $17 million, a slight increase from his previous contract.
Details of the 2021 Contract:
- Base Salary (2021-2022): $17 million per year
- Third-Year Option: $14 million (with a $2 million buyout)
- Total Potential Value: $52 million (if the third-year option is exercised)
- Performance Incentives: Additional bonuses tied to postseason appearances and individual performance milestones.
Justin Turner’s Career Earnings to Date
By 2022, Justin Turner had amassed a considerable fortune through his MLB career. Including both his base salaries and performance bonuses, Turner’s career earnings exceeded $90 million. This figure places him among the top-earning infielders in MLB history, a testament to his longevity and consistent performance.
Breakdown of Career Earnings (2009-2022):
- 2009-2012 (Orioles/Mets): Approx. $1.5 million total
- 2014-2016 (Dodgers): Approx. $5 million total
- 2017-2020 (Dodgers 4-Year Contract): $64 million
- 2021-2022 (Dodgers 2-Year Contract): $34 million
- Total Earnings (2009-2022): Over $90 million
Comparing Justin Turner Salary to Other MLB Players
When compared to other players at his position, Justin Turner’s salary is competitive, though not the highest. Stars like Nolan Arenado and Manny Machado have inked larger deals, but Turner’s consistent production and leadership qualities have made him one of the most respected veterans in the game.
While some younger players have signed record-breaking contracts, Turner’s journey reflects a steady rise through the ranks, proving that persistence and performance over time can lead to substantial financial rewards.
What the Future Holds for Justin Turner’s Earnings
As Turner moves into the later stages of his career, his future earnings will depend on his performance and health. Should Turner continue to produce at a high level, he may still command lucrative contracts or extensions. Even if he transitions into a more limited role, his experience and leadership are likely to keep him valuable to teams seeking veteran presence.
Potential Post-Career Opportunities:
- Broadcasting: Many former MLB players transition into broadcasting roles, and Turner’s media-savvy personality makes this a likely path.
- Coaching/Front Office Roles: With his deep knowledge of the game, Turner could find himself in coaching or front-office positions within MLB organizations.
- Endorsements and Business Ventures: Turner has already leveraged his fame into endorsement deals, and this could continue after retirement.
Conclusion
Justin Turner salary reflects his dedication, hard work, and contributions to Major League Baseball over the years. From modest beginnings to multi-million-dollar contracts, Turner’s financial journey is a testament to his skill and perseverance. As he continues his career, there’s no doubt that he will remain a respected figure both on and off the field.