The Chicago Cubs are in the final stages of securing a one-year contract worth $6 million with Justin Turner, according to a league source who spoke with The Athletic on Tuesday. This agreement brings an accomplished right-handed batter with considerable playoff experience to the team.

The Cubs had been tracking Turner, 40, during the free-agent period and shifted their focus after their unsuccessful attempt to acquire Alex Bregman. The talented All-Star third baseman recently signed a lucrative three-year, $120 million contract with the Boston Red Sox, which includes a sizable deferred compensation element.

At this point in the offseason, it appears unlikely that the Cubs will pursue any additional position players on major-league contracts during spring training. The team has conducted thorough assessments and considered Nolan Arenado as a potential, albeit remote, addition; however, sources indicate the St. Louis Cardinals are unwilling to trade the All-Star third baseman to their primary rivals in the National League Central.

With the Cubs set to kick off their Cactus League campaign on Thursday and their regular season beginning March 18 in Japan, Turner was faced with making a timely decision.

League insiders reveal that the prospect of spending the summer in Chicago and experiencing the iconic atmosphere of Wrigley Field was particularly appealing to Turner and his wife, Kourtney, who hails from Indiana.

Having thrived in a bustling market before, Turner made a name for himself with the New York Mets and reached new heights with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

During his time with the Dodgers, Turner played a key role in their 2020 World Series championship and earned two All-Star selections, along with the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award, which honors excellence in community service, philanthropy, and performance on the field.

Following his tenure with the Dodgers, Turner’s career path included stints with the Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Seattle Mariners. At age 39, he produced impressive numbers, recording 11 home runs, 55 RBIs, and a .737 OPS over 139 games.

The Cubs are looking to utilize Turner’s right-handed bat alongside first baseman Michael Busch, which could give him additional opportunities as a designated hitter. Historically, Turner has played primarily at third base throughout his 16-year career, but it remains uncertain how much he will be used in that role given his age and the organization’s aspirations for top prospect Matt Shaw.

(Top photo: Katelyn Mulcahy / Getty Images)