The Toronto Blue Jays versus the Los Angeles Dodgers. Unfortunately for Jays fans, the ending is all too familiar. Despite being a finalist in the bidding for Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki — just as they were 13 months ago in the wildly expensive attempt to land Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani — the Blue Jays once again finished second in the running.

With the Padres eliminated from contention, the Jays are just battling it out with the World Champion Los Angeles Dodgers.

The San Diego Padres are reportedly taking taking interest in signing a World Series champion after missing out on Roki Sasaki.

Japanese right-hander Roki Sasaki is signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers, he announced Friday on Instagram. Sasaki, 23, was considered to be the best pitcher in the world not already under the employment of an MLB organization.

Japanese sensation Roki Sasaki chose to sign with the Dodgers, he announced. That leaves the Padres to face an uncertain path in the months leading up to the 2025 season and to face the reality of their closest and most irksome rival going forward with yet another star player.

The sweepstakes for 23-year-old Japanese flamethrower Roki Sasaki could be nearing its conclusion. Sasaki, whose representation said he was open to playing for all 30 teams, is now reportedly down to two franchises as he nears a decision.

An overwhelming expectation throughout the Roki Sasaki sweepstakes has been the Japanese phenom would ultimately decide between signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers or San Diego Padres.