Trea Turner’s comment on contract extension talks helps Dodgers immensely

Any and all help the Los Angeles Dodgers can get this offseason serves as magnified positivity after how the lockout has upended everything. And as Freddie Freeman takes his time making a decision (how much longer is this going to take??), fans could use a win elsewhere.

In the case of Trea Turner, who’s slated to become a free agent after this season and figures to be in the Dodgers’ long-term plans — because, why not? — the two sides have yet to engage on contract extension talks.

Previously, it was unclear if Turner wanted to test free agency after this season, which is what many assumed might be the case when the Dodgers knew they were losing Corey Seager and had an obvious superstar option to replace him without missing a beat.

But as of now, Turner is only signed through 2022. Fans are still waiting for progress on an extension before Opening Day. The good news? Turner told reporters that he’s willing to discuss an extension during the season.

Dodgers star Trea Turner is open to discussing a midseason contract extension

This is especially helpful because the Dodgers simply may not have enough time to get to Turner before the start of the season after the MLB lockout squished the offseason into a two-week frenzy, which drastically affected LA given the number of holes on their roster.

They brought back Clayton Kershaw, but that’s all they’ve done so far. They still need some outfield depth and pitching depth for both the rotation and bullpen. It’d be nice to solve first base/second base, too, in addition to the DH spot now that the NL has that luxury.

By no means, in the big picture, are those issues more important than locking Turner into a long-term deal, but the Dodgers need to keep their priorities in line with the new timetable. They need to fix their roster with just three weeks until Opening Day rather than focus on paying a star who is already under contract.

Though Turner mentioned there’s been “nothing of substance” on the extension front, he revealed that he loves LA and can see himself in Dodger Blue for years to come. If not, he’s ready to give it his all in 2022 and leave it all out on the field. That’s pretty much the perfect mentality for these circumstances.

Once the Dodgers sort out what other stars they plan to import this offseason (and once Trevor Bauer’s case comes to a conclusion), their payroll situation for 2023 will be much more clear, which could very well pave the way for a big payday for Turner, who is among the most valuable players in baseball.

Why won’t the Dodgers just give Freddie Freeman what he wants?

Freddie Freeman reportedly wants more years on his contract. The Los Angeles Dodgers are reportedly offering fewer years. Why?