Former Cubs free agent who brought the vibes finds new home in Mexican League

Former Chicago Cubs first baseman Justin Turner is continuing his playing career in Mexico. Los Angeles AM 570 host David Vassegh confirmed that Turner is signing with the Tijuana Toros of the Mexican Baseball League, opening a new chapter after the 41-year-old spent 17 seasons in Major League Baseball with seven different teams.

The bulk of Turner's MLB career was spent with the Los Angeles Dodgers (9 years), when he was the team's starting third baseman and a mainstay in their lineup as the team made the playoffs each year he was on their roster. The veteran made his way to the Cubs in 2025, where he served as a backup first baseman, designated hitter, and occasional pinch hitter.

But a lot of Turner's value for the Cubs didn't have to do with his on-field production, but with his presence in the clubhouse. Turner's personality was hard to miss as he embraced his role as a veteran role-player and forged relationships with younger players like Pete Crow-Armstrong. He was also at the center of some of the team's funnier moments in 2025, including pranking his teammates and that infamous home run celebration against the Pirates.

The Cubs needed more than vibes from Justin Turner

All the fun vibes and playoff experience weren't enough for the Cubs front office to keep him around, though. After his one-year deal expired, the Cubs opted not to pick up Turner's mutual option for 2026, and they paid him a $2 million buyout instead.

The Cubs went into last offseason knowing they had to meaningfully upgrade their bench, and letting Turner go was part of that harsh reality. As a hitter, he was only really effective against left-handed pitching. His wRC+ against lefties was a solid 112 last year, but a horrendous 16 against righties. And his defense at first base is a far cry from what Michael Busch has been showcasing in his time with the Cubs.

All that being said, I don't think Turner's year with the Cubs was a failure by any means. His mentorship of Crow-Armstrong, Matt Shaw, and others was undoubtedly influential in their development as big-leaguers, and he gave fans some very memorable moments. It's nice to see him get an opportunity to continue doing that in Mexico for however long he can continue playing.

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