3 former Red Sox players that will make Boston regret letting them go in 2024

The Red Sox lost a fair few players this offseason without making up for the deficiencies.

Sep 9, 2023; Boston, Massachusetts, USA;  Boston Red Sox designated hitter Justin Turner (2) hits a
Sep 9, 2023; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Red Sox designated hitter Justin Turner (2) hits a | Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
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Justin Turner (Free Agent)

Justin Turner took hold of fan-favorite status seemingly as soon as he put on the Red Sox uniform — his beard gives Sox fans flashbacks to the 2013 World Series winning squad. Turner took on a leadership role as one of the more experienced veterans in the clubhouse and his offensive production remained consistent all season.

Turner's bat has been reliable throughout his career, and his right-handed power is desperately needed by Boston. He hit .276/.345/.455 in a Red Sox uniform and played serviceable defense for the team, though he spent most of his time as the designated hitter, a position that probably suits him best at 39 years of age.

Turner opted out of his contract and chose not to return to Boston in 2025, likely because he saw the direction the team was taking or, we'd like to think, he figured he had the opportunity to earn more money after a successful campaign. Despite being unsigned at the time of publication, a reunion between Turner and the Red Sox doesn't seem likely to the chagrin of Sox fans everywhere. Yup, they don't feel like spending money, so why would they on an aging asset? But consistency is the key to Turner's success — wherever he signs, that team will be lucky to have him.

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