Roki Sasaki, a highly-regarded 23-year-old Japanese pitcher, has signed a deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers, marking a significant move in MLB. His choice to join the Dodgers, known for their strong pitching development and existing star players like Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, was expected but leaves other teams disappointed, particularly the Toronto Blue Jays and San Diego Padres.

The Jays, having pursued big names unsuccessfully in previous years, are now facing a daunting future, with key players nearing free agency and a lackluster farm system. They need to make bold moves to remain competitive. The Padres, who have a longstanding interest in Sasaki, now must reassess their strategies amidst financial constraints and legal troubles within ownership.

In a shocking turn of events, Sheel Seidler, widow of the late Padres owner Peter Seidler, has filed a lawsuit alleging mismanagement and potential relocation of the San Diego Padres. The lawsuit suggests that Peter's brothers are obstructing her control of the team, possibly to facilitate a sale. Sheel accuses them of treating the franchise irresponsibly, claiming they are attempting to erase Peter's legacy.

Amidst this turmoil, the Padres have made significant roster changes and announced John Seidler as the new controlling owner. Sheel fears these developments contradict Peter's vision for the team, with implications for the franchise's future in San Diego.

The San Diego Padres are keen on acquiring Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki, who is anticipated to join the 2025 international signing class. If Sasaki delays his signing until January 15, the Padres could leverage a larger international bonus pool to entice him.

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred confirmed Sasaki's expected entry into the 2025 class, favoring teams like the Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers, who have connections to him through former teammates. The Padres may have a competitive edge in both finances and endorsement opportunities for Sasaki.

The New York Mets are gearing up for Game 3 of the National League Championship Series with confidence, as Luis Severino prepares to face the Los Angeles Dodgers and Shohei Ohtani. Severino is analyzing Ohtani's past performances, particularly how Yu Darvish approached him, to devise his own strategy.

Despite a rocky playoff history, Severino is focused on the challenge ahead, acknowledging the Dodgers' strong lineup and the need for preparation. He plans to study game footage and unwind by playing video games, specifically Call of Duty, to keep his mind clear.

In the lead-up to Game 3 of the National League Championship Series, Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Shohei Ohtani will remain in the leadoff position despite his struggles with empty bases. Ohtani has excelled with runners on, going 6-for-8, but has yet to secure a hit with the bases empty this postseason.

Roberts finds the shift in focus on Ohtani's performance amusing, noting the previous concerns about his ability to hit with runners in scoring position. Both he and Ohtani believe the slugger's current performance is due to minor adjustments rather than a significant issue.

Ohtani, who has a solid plan at the plate, expressed confidence in his abilities despite the challenges. Roberts remains optimistic about Ohtani finding his rhythm soon, while also addressing the status of first baseman Freddie Freeman, who is dealing with an ankle injury.