Roki Sasaki Picks Dodgers Over Toronto: What His Signing Means for MLB Free Agency

MLB free agency is in full swing. While some big names like Juan Soto have already signed, several impactful players are still up for grabs. The trade market is buzzing too.

Here’s a brief update on the offseason so far:

Roki Sasaki’s Choices Narrowed

Roki Sasaki stands as one of the top free agents, recently reduced to two potential teams: the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays. The San Diego Padres made some signings, suggesting they’re no longer pursuing Sasaki. Earlier in the week, other interested teams, such as the New York Yankees, San Francisco Giants, and New York Mets, were also informed they were out of the running.

Last week, the Blue Jays welcomed Sasaki for a visit. The Dodgers also hosted him, showcasing their star players to impress him. With the international signing period starting, Sasaki has until January 23 to announce his decision.

Dodgers Make Moves

The Dodgers recently traded second baseman Gavin Lux to the Cincinnati Reds, acquiring outfield prospect Mike Sirota and a Competitive Balance Round A pick. Shortly after, they signed infielder Hyeseong Kim from the Korean Baseball Organization on a three-year deal worth $12.5 million guaranteed. This deal can rise to $22 million with options for the 2028 and 2029 seasons.

Kim, 25, has spent six seasons with the Kiwoom Heroes in South Korea and has been training in Los Angeles for the past month.

Diamondbacks Secure Corbin Burnes

Corbin Burnes, the 2021 Cy Young winner, is headed to the Arizona Diamondbacks on a hefty six-year deal worth $210 million, which includes an opt-out after two seasons. This is a record contract for the Diamondbacks. Burnes, who lives nearby in Scottsdale, turned down offers from the Giants and Blue Jays before joining Arizona. Maryland will receive draft pick compensation since Burnes declined a qualifying offer from the Orioles.

Busy Day for Teams

The offseason continues to heat up, with teams like the Mets and Athletics making significant moves to enhance their rosters. The Mets recently signed lefty reliever A.J. Minter for two years with a $22 million contract, while the Oakland Athletics secured right-handed reliever José Leclerc for $10 million.

As teams finalize their rosters, fans can expect more exciting developments in the world of MLB free agency.