Dodgers' Turner making progress from knee surgery

Though the Los Angeles Dodgers seem prepared to use Howie Kendrick and Chase Utley at third base this season, if necessary, incumbent Justin Turner - who underwent microfracture surgery on his left knee in October - expects to assume his usual spot at the hot corner come Opening Day.

"My game plan is not just to be ready Opening Day, but to be 100 percent in baseball shape for Opening Day," Turner told MLB.com's Ken Gurnick. "I'm hoping it's fixed, that when I get to 100 percent it's in the rear-view mirror and I won't have to worry about it. I hope it feels like a brand-new knee once I get to 100 percent. My goal is to be available and ready to play every single day."

Turner has battled arthritic problems in his troublesome left knee since signing with the Dodgers in 2014, forcing him to take a couple days off each week even while thriving at the plate. The 31-year-old is optimistic the procedure will eliminate those issues, though, and he's yet to experience any setbacks from the surgery.

"There was no pain or discomfort when I ran, but the thing I'm most happy about was that I woke up next day and the knee felt really good," he said.

Not only would a timely recovery help stabilize the infield situation for rookie manager Dave Roberts, but it could also pay future dividends for Turner, who's a free agent at season's end. Barring a setback, Turner - who boasts an .876 OPS since 2014 - could command the largest deal of any free-agent third baseman next winter in a group that includes four-time All-Star Adrian Beltre.

Turner, 2014-2015