MESA, Ariz. — The Cubs are signing veteran infielder Justin Turner, according to multiple reports.
The one-year deal, which is pending a physical, is worth $6 million, according to The Athletic.
After their pursuit of veteran third baseman Alex Bregman fell short, the Cubs still lacked depth at the hot corner, looking to top prospect Matt Shaw as the front runner at the position.
The team still believes in Shaw, but he was drafted just a year and half ago, and the college shortstop is still developing at third base. His quick rise through the minors reflected his talent, but he also has a lack of professional experience.
Shaw has expressed excitement about the opportunity to win a starting job out of camp, but Turner’s addition alleviates some of the pressure for Shaw to perform right away — both for the player and the team.
Turner also can back up Michael Busch at first base, another position that was lacking in depth.
Turner, 40, has a long resume that includes two All-Star selections, 19 playoff series, an NLCS MVP award, and a World Series title.
Last year with the Blue Jays and Mariners, Turner hit .259 with 11 home runs.
Cubs sign Flexen
The Cubs signed right-hander Chris Flexen to a minor-league deal with an invitation to major-league spring training, the team announced Tuesday morning.
Felxen, 30, posted a 4.95 ERA in 33 games and 30 starts with the White Sox last season.
