MLB

Justin Turner Turns From CSUF Baseball Star to Dodgers Hero

Justin Turner's former coaches have watched the Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman and team hero go from local star to one of the biggest names in baseball.

Turner, who was born in Long Beach, attended California State University, Fullerton and further developed his knack for baseball by joining the team. With the guidance of his assistant coach Neil Walton and coach Rick Vanderhook, he was later drafted into Major League Baseball.

"It's surreal watching him," Vanderhook said. As a friend of his parents', Vanderhook has known Turner since he was a baby.

Turner's former coach said it really hit him that someone he's coached has advanced to the World Series.

"I'm sitting there with his dad and I look and say, 'Red is batting third for the Dodgers,'" he said. "He just has a feel for baseball, and that's something you can't teach."

The Dodger star's assistant coach had nothing but praise for him.

"He's not just a natural talent, he's working for what he's getting," Walton said.

Aside from his acclaimed plays during games, Turner is recognized for being a professional who spends time offering tips to current players of the CSUF baseball team.

Turner is known to sit and talk to the young athletes, who soak everything in.

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"It's big for us," CSUF baseball player Andrew Quezada said. "It gives us hope that we're going to be the next guy."

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