(Dunedin) Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider already sees the potential benefits of having Justin Turner in his starting lineup.
Turner singled, walked and drove in a 14-13 Blue Jays win over the Philadelphia Phillies in the Grapefruit League on Saturday.
The 39-year-old signed a one-year, $13 million contract with the Blue Jays, after spending last season with the Boston Red Sox.
“That’s what we want from JT, for him to understand situations at the plate,” Schneider said. That’s exactly what he’s done his entire career. »
After Bo Bichette’s single in the first inning, Turner drew a walk from Phillies starting pitcher Kolby Allard. After Danny Jansen’s walk, Daulton Varsho hit a double for two runs that pushed Turner to the plate.
In the third inning, Turner hit a single after seeing Bichette do the same, then stole the second base.
Even though Vladimir Guerrero and George Springer weren’t in the lineup, Schneider said having Turner as a hitter after Bichette worked well.
“We’re still working on it,” Schneider said of his batting order. It’s good to have him behind Bo. We’re going to reshuffle this a bit. There’s a few ways, but he’ll be at the top of the lineup for sure. »
Turner was a designated hitter against the Phillies, but also played first, second and third base with the Red Sox.
Last season he posted a .276 batting average, with 23 home runs and 96 RBIs.
“I had been in contact with Toronto for a few years about being a good fit for them,” Turner said. I started my career in the majors with the Orioles.
“This is my third stay in the Eastern section of the American League. »