What ties Roki Sasaki, Kirby Yates, and now Kyle Tucker together? They’ve all made it known that they’re interested in joining the Dodgers… And honestly, it’s not surprising. With their long track record of success, big financial muscle, clear organizational vision, and the appeal of playing in L.A., the Dodgers have become the top destination for free agents. And now, their back-to-back World Series titles only make them even more attractive for players hungry to win.

But there’s another side to this…The Blue Jays might feel the ripple effects more than anyone. In the last few years, they lost the bidding war for Shohei Ohtani and Sasaki to the Dodgers.

In both cases, the Jays were in the forefront, but the players preferred to get with the Dodgers. And Kyle Tucker might be the next one to sway things in L.A.’s favor.

“I’ve heard from a variety of knowledgeable people that Kyle Tucker has a strong interest in being a Dodger. The Dodgers would obviously love to have him. However, I question if their total number (especially years) will be high enough for his interest in LA to make a difference,” MLB insider Jacob Brownson said.

Well, the Blue Jays are staring at the possibility of losing Bo Bichette, and that’s why they’re pushing harder on a potential Kyle Tucker deal. Pairing Vladimir Guerrero Jr. with a high-impact bat like Tucker is an appealing vision for the franchise.

And why not?

The player who just won his second Silver Slugger after hitting .266 with 22 HRs and an .841 OPS, and averaging around 30 homers over the past five seasons, would put the Blue Jays on the right path.

But of course, the Dodgers are in the way…

If Brownson’s reports are accurate, Los Angeles already holds the edge in the race for Tucker.

The sticking point, though, could be contract length. Jon Heyman recently projected an 11-year, $375 million deal for Tucker this offseason, a commitment the Dodgers might hesitate to make for a 28-year-old. Typical of them, they could offer similar money over fewer years, resulting in a higher AAV.

If you remember, it’s reminiscent of their approach with Bryce Harper. Before Harper chose the Phillies, the Dodgers tried to swoop in late with a shorter, high-AAV deal loaded with opt-outs. Harper ultimately took a 13-year contract from Philadelphia instead. So now, if Tucker wants that kind of long-term security, the Dodgers may not be the team willing to go that far.

More bidding wars are upcoming between the Dodgers and the Jays

The offseason battle between the Dodgers and Blue Jays might not be limited to Tucker. Reportedly, it would cover relief pitchers as well.

“The Jays will likely monitor the markets for free agency’s top closers. But, more likely, they’ll be shopping in the same bullpen tier as the Los Angeles Dodgers, for pitchers like Devin Williams, Pete Fairbanks, Phil Maton, and other similar relievers,” The Athletic’s Mitch Bannon said.

Well, Williams’ 2025 numbers with the Yankees weren’t significant — 62 innings and a 4.79 ERA, but his track record with the Brewers still explains why the Blue Jays might be eager to land him.

The problem? The Dodgers are right there in the mix again!!!

Los Angeles struck out on all their bullpen signings last winter. After signing expensive contracts with Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates, neither move worked out. Scott struggled as the closer, posting a 4.74 ERA and 60 strikeouts in 61 games. Yates didn’t fare much better — a 5.23 ERA and 52 SOs across 50 appearances.

Now, the Dodgers are also chasing Williams. So, even after the World Series, it looks like we’re in for a few more head-to-head battles between L.A. and Toronto this offseason.