The San Diego Padres have officially withdrawn from the competition to sign Japanese pitching prospect Roki Sasaki, who is weighing his options between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Toronto Blue Jays. This development marks a significant turn of events for the Blue Jays, who were not initially considered frontrunners for Sasaki's talent.

Sasaki, a 23-year-old sensation, is only available to be signed using international bonus pool funds, and the Padres' exit strengthens the Blue Jays' position. Reports suggest they could land him, enhancing their pitching depth alongside Chris Bassitt, Kevin Gausman, Jose Berrios, and Bowden Francis.