Turner appreciates Matheny's help through career

ST. LOUIS -- Jacob Turner had hoped to say hello to Cardinals manager Mike Matheny during the Cubs' weekend series, but didn't connect until an awkward moment on Friday. Turner was leaving Busch Stadium at the same time as Matheny, a few hours after the Cubs beat the Cardinals, 7-2.

"He's been a help for me throughout my career," Turner said Sunday of Matheny. "I knew him before he was the Cardinals manager. I think he's done a great job with them and has helped me, especially when I first got drafted, on what to expect from professional baseball."

Turner grew up in St. Charles, Mo., and went to the same high school, Westminster Christian Academy, as Matheny's son, Tate. Turner was a senior when Tate was a freshman.

"He helped me out on what to expect," said Turner, who was the Tigers' first-round pick in 2009. "Everybody sees the big leagues and all the glamour, but there's a lot before that. He definitely helped me out in terms of that.

"He has a lot of knowledge, and being a catcher, he can tell you a lot of things that can help as a pitcher," Turner said. "He's been more of a friend than anything else. We stay in touch in the offseason when we have more time."

On Monday, Turner will make his first start ever at Wrigley Field when the Cubs open a three-game series against the Brewers. He's 1-1 with a 2.18 ERA in four career games (three starts) against Milwaukee.

"I haven't started there as a visiting player, so I'm definitely excited," Turner said. "I'm looking to build on some of the things that me and [pitching coach Chris Bosio] have been working on."