When the Cubs pivoted late in the offseason and made the surprising move to sign veteran Justin Turner instead of landing their big-ticket target, it raised more than a few eyebrows. Could a 40-year-old in the twilight of his career really fill the void? Now, just weeks into the season and following a rough start, Turner is beginning to flash glimpses of the clutch hitter he once was.

On Tuesday night at Wrigley Field, Ian Happ‘s placement on the injured list opened opportunities for Moisés Ballesteros and Turner. But entering Turner’s the game, his numbers were, frankly, hard to defend. His batting average? A tough-to-watch .155. He looked like a shadow of the dependable slugger fans once knew. But guess what? The ninth inning was a game-changer. Turner delivered a game-winning, two-run double, sealing a 5-4 win against the Marlins. For a moment, he reminded everyone why he’s still here. And when you’re Plan B, too many eyes are on you.

Let’s be real—his early-season slump hasn’t been pretty. Fans were frustrated, some thought he might be DFA’d on Tuesday. But through it all, manager Craig Counsell never publicly wavered. Turner, for his part, kept showing up early, putting in extra work, trying to find that old swing. “The mindset is that every time you get an opportunity, you try to earn the trust and earn more at-bats from the manager. That’s the way it’s gotta be.” Turner said after the game. And when you’re Plan B, too many eyes are on you.

The All-Star third baseman of the Houston Astros, Alex Bregman, was the Cubs’ primary target for the position. But he signed a three-year, $120 million deal with the Red Sox over a four-year $120 million contract proposed by them. Where did they turn when Bregman didn’t work out? Quickly shifting their gears, they signed Turner to a one-year, $6 million deal. His versatility and postseason experience were a huge addition to the team, even though his 2024 season was not so promising. And Counsell’s response after the game confirms this was the right call for the team. “I’m happy for him,” Counsell said. “It’s a big moment, it’s at home, it’s a big hit. He’s done it so many times. And it’s not fun watching a great player struggle. But he got a moment, and he did it.”

Turner’s postgame comments also reflected the accountability he brings. And while one clutch hit doesn’t erase a month-long slump, it does show that the 40-year-old’s hard work and the coach’s patience may yet pay off for the Cubs.

Why Turner still matters in a youth-driven lineup

There’s more to every player than just what stats show. And Turner has more to offer for the team than his batting average. His presence opens up some unique possibilities for the team. He can play across the infield and contribute as a pinch-hitter or designated hitter. That kind of versatility? It gives the Cubs room to experiment and make them flexible for the lineup. The team has great young talents like Matt Shaw and Ballestros. Unlike other players, Turner’s presence doesn’t hinder their performance rather complements it.

Jon Berti, Vidal Bruján, and Nicky Lopez all add to the batting options of the Cubs, but what the team lacks is the knowledge that comes with experience, which only veterans can offer. Here’s where Turner comes in. His excellent postseason résumé and leadership qualities bring added value. In his major league career spanning over 17 seasons, he’s been an All-Star and won a World Series. He has delivered in high-pressure moments for teams like the Dodgers, Mets, and Red Sox. And now, when he is getting back to his game, finding his rhythm, there is hope that he makes a crucial impact that the team needs at this point.

For now, Turner’s spot on this roster is safe, not because of his past, but because of moments like Tuesday. The Cubs may have missed out on Bregman, but in Turner, they’ve got a veteran who’s still got something to prove.