Justin Turner will be back in the Toronto Blue Jays starting lineup Sunday against the Seattle Mariners after missing the last four games.
Turner was reinstated from the paternity list on Saturday, but did not appear in the Blue Jays’ 5-4 win. Turner last played on July 2 against the Houston Astros.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. will start the game at third base, marking the third time this season he’s lined up at the hot corner. His last start at third came on June 4 against the Baltimore Orioles.
Turner, 39, is slashing .250/.359/.375 with five home runs, 15 doubles and 27 RBIs after signing a one-year contract with Toronto this off-season.
The two-time all-star has heated up as of late, posting a .321 average in June.
After splitting the first two games, the Blue Jays look to take the rubber match against the Mariners. Watch the Game on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+ starting at 4 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. PT.
The Toronto Blue Jays received a major boost to their lineup as Trea Turner returned to action against the Seattle Mariners. Turner had been sidelined with a minor injury, but he was back in the starting lineup, providing a much-needed spark for the Blue Jays.
Turner’s return also marked the debut of top prospect Vladimir Guerrero Jr. at third base. Guerrero Jr. had been primarily playing first base, but with the return of Turner, he shifted over to the hot corner. This move allows the Blue Jays to keep both of their talented infielders in the lineup, giving them a potent offensive combination.
Turner brings speed and versatility to the Blue Jays lineup, as he is capable of playing multiple positions and wreaking havoc on the basepaths. His return adds another dimension to an already dangerous lineup that features the likes of Guerrero Jr., Bo Bichette, and Marcus Semien.
Guerrero Jr.’s move to third base is an interesting development, as he had primarily been playing first base this season. The shift shows the Blue Jays’ commitment to maximizing their offensive potential, as Guerrero Jr.’s bat is too valuable to leave out of the lineup.
Overall, the return of Turner and the debut of Guerrero Jr. at third base bode well for the Blue Jays as they look to make a push for the playoffs. With a potent lineup and solid pitching staff, Toronto has the pieces in place to make a run in the competitive AL East. Fans will be eagerly watching to see how Turner and Guerrero Jr. perform in their new roles and how they can help lead the Blue Jays to success.