Justin Turner Rumors: Dodgers 'Optimistic' About Signing Star to New Contract

MLB Network's Jon Heyman reported last week that the Los Angeles Dodgers were ready to welcome Justin Turner back after allowing him "a chance to look around" in the free-agent market, and now there's a new development in the 36-year-old's free agency.

Heyman said Monday that the Dodgers "remain optimistic" about their chances to re-sign the third baseman, who has been with the team since 2014. 

Turner is coming off a World Series championship season during which he hit .307/.400/.460 through 42 appearances. 

Following a report from Jorge Castillo of the Los Angeles Times that Turner was looking for a four-year deal, Heyman added that the star is down to four teams and is only open to joining a contender. Among his finalists are the Toronto Blue Jays—who have already supplemented their outfield with a superstar by signing George Springer to a six-year deal—and the Dodgers, though they still "appear to prefer" a two-year contract for Turner.

The Dodgers have the largest payroll in MLB, with $194.8 million on the books, but whether it comes by way of a new deal for Turner or not, they've said they're willing to open the checkbook for other stars—including Marcus Semien, per Peter Gammons, and Trevor Bauer, according to ESPN's Jeff Passan. 

According to Castillo, the Dodgers don't want to tie themselves to an aging player, but Turner is seemingly conscious of the ticking clock. Heyman said Turner is "hoping for more" in what may be "his 'final' deal."

The team is desperately seeking a right-handed infielder, so it seems that Turner makes the most sense if the two sides can come to an agreement on a contract.