The Red Sox have added a possible replacement for J.D. Martinez, while potentially parting ways with a one-time top prospect.
The team announced the signing of Justin Turner to a one-year contract, which will pay the 38-year-old $15 million for 2023. There is also a player option for 2024 coming in at $7.7 million.
It is expected that Turner will primarily serve as a designated hitter, while also seeing time at third and first base. The Roberto Clemente Award winner is coming off a season in which he hit .278 with a .788 OPS and 13 homers. The season before Turner managed 27 home runs while making the National League All-Star team.
To make room for Turner on the 40-man roster, the Red Sox designated pitcher Darwinzon Hernandez for assignment. The 26-year-old Hernandez never quite was able to harness his control, only appearing in seven games, walking eight in 6 2/3 innings.