Sat May 24 21:20:00 UTC 2025: **Cubs’ Justin Turner, 40, Provides Championship Pedigree and Mentorship as Team Soars**
**MIAMI** – At 40 years old, Justin Turner isn’t just another player in the Chicago Cubs’ clubhouse; he’s a walking encyclopedia of winning baseball, and his impact extends far beyond his batting average. While his on-field performance may not be at its peak, the veteran infielder/designated hitter is proving invaluable to the Cubs’ success, both on and off the field.
Turner, a World Series champion (2020), NLCS MVP (2017), and two-time All-Star, brings a wealth of experience to a Cubs team hungry for success. His contributions were on full display in Tuesday night’s 14-1 dismantling of the Miami Marlins, where he went 3-for-4, raising his batting average above .200 for the first time in over a month. The Cubs, who lead MLB in runs scored, tied their season-high with 21 hits in the game.
Beyond the stat sheet, Turner’s leadership and mentorship are resonating deeply within the team. “He’s huge,” catcher Carson Kelly said, highlighting Turner’s ability to share insights from successful teams of the past, emphasizing the importance of appreciating the present moment.
Manager Craig Counsell echoed these sentiments, describing Turner as a “baseball rat” whose love for the game is infectious. His engagement and positivity, even amidst his own struggles at the plate, have created a unifying force within the Cubs’ clubhouse.
Top prospect Matt Shaw is already benefiting from Turner’s guidance. “He’s had a great influence on me,” Shaw said, emphasizing Turner’s ability to teach him “the ins and outs of the game.”
Turner himself sees his role as providing “bumpers in a bowling lane” for the younger players, guiding them and preventing them from going astray.
The Cubs’ remarkable season is not just a result of individual talent but a culmination of experience, mentorship, and a shared commitment to excellence – all qualities embodied by Justin Turner. And even opposing crowds seem to recognize Turner’s value, cheering his hits in a testament to the respect he’s earned throughout his career. While retirement isn’t on the horizon just yet, the baseball world is starting to appreciate Turner’s unique contributions to the game.
First Piper 