Reds become preferred landing spot for veteran free agent thanks to Terry Francona

Last season, the Cincinnati Reds' roster — especially among the position players — lacked any sort of meaningful veteran presence. Outside of catcher Jose Trevino, the Reds youngsters had no one to turn to for leadership. Perhaps former Reds farmhand Justin Turner could bring a steadying presence to the roster in 2026.

Turner has expressed interest in playing next season, and the Reds appear to be high on his list of preferred landing spots. During the GM Meetings this past week, Turner told reporters, “I’ve always wanted to play for Terry Francona."

Turner spent last season with the Chicago Cubs, and in 80 games hit just .219/.288/.314 with three home runs and 18 RBI. For his career, however, Turner owns a .283/.360/.454 slash line and has 201 homers, 832 RBI, and a 122 OPS+.

Terry Francona's influence could lure Justin Turner back to the Reds

Turner is far from the type of impact bat the Reds should be targeting this offseason, but given Cincinnati's tight budget, he may be an ideal fit for a young and inexperienced roster.

A third baseman by trade, Turner is no longer able to play the hot corner. That's of little concern to the Reds, as Gold Glove Award-winner Ke'Bryan Hayes has that position on lockdown. Turner, however, also has experience at first base and could serve as a designated hitter — a role that Miguel Andujar held during the second-half of the 2025 season.

Most Reds fans will probably scoff at the idea of adding a 41-year-old whose bat speed and power is nowhere near what it was earlier in his career. But finding a mentor like Turner to help bring along the likes of Elly De La Cruz, Matt McLain, and others could prove crucial to the team's overall makeup next season.

The World Champion Los Angeles Dodgers received massive contributions from veterans like Kiké Hernandez and Miguel Rojas during the World Series, and Turner could be that type of player for the Reds next season.

Obviously, after a down-year (and with his advanced age), Turner won't be able to command much in terms of salary. If he were willing to accept a one-year deal loaded with incentives, perhaps the Reds would grant Turner's wish of playing for the future Hall of Fame manager.