WATCH: Justin Turner on Cubs roster, hitting philosophy and leadership |
Tony Crumpton
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- 18 hours ago
Chicago Cubs infielder Justin Turner jumped on the Marquee Sports Network spring training broadcast on Feb. 27 to talk about how his first spring training with Chicago thus far, his first time being a bat boy at Cal State Fullerton and much more.
Watch the interview below: Video summary/cliff-notes: (00:00-00:37) Justin Turner discusses acclimating to a new team, mentioning this is his third consecutive year joining a different clubhouse. His strategy is to stick with familiar faces initially. (01:07-01:47) Turner reflects on his time as a bat boy at Cal State Fullerton and how he later played against some of the same players he once admired. (02:13-02:44) He enjoys talking about hitting and has already had hitting sessions with teammates like Nico Hoerner, who was excited to learn from him. (03:14-03:45) Turner emphasizes the constant adjustments needed in baseball due to the long season and physical wear, making it difficult to stay consistent. (04:15-04:52) He praises Nico Hoerner’s elite defensive skills at shortstop, describing his play over the last five months of the previous season as remarkable. (05:19-05:46) Turner shares his approach to mentoring younger players, offering suggestions rather than absolute answers to help them find what works. (05:46-06:18) He talks about meeting Sammy Sosa in camp, acknowledging Sosa’s impact on baseball, especially during the home run race with Mark McGwire. (06:18-06:51) Turner discusses Pete Crow-Armstrong’s talent, athleticism, and ability to impact the game in multiple ways, including defense and baserunning.
