MLB Rumors: Edwin Díaz drifts out of Dodgers’ budget; Mets, Yankees ignite fierce chase for Tatsuya Imai and Michael King

The Los Angeles Dodgers are looking to build on their success from last season by strengthening the roster in the offseason.

The two-time reigning World Series winners were reportedly pursuing All-Star closer Edwin Diaz after he opted out of his New York Mets deal to become a free agent. However, according to The Athletic’s Fabian Ardaya and Katie Woo, Diaz is out of the Dodgers' "desired range," with the 31-year-old closer eyeing a lucrative deal this offseason.

According to Ardaya, the Dodgers are looking for short-term deals, but Diaz, who is coming off a strong 2025 season, is seeking a lucrative long-term contract.

Meanwhile, the Mets, who seemingly closed the door on a return for Diaz, are pursuing coveted Japanese free agent Tatsuya Imai, who is also being chased by the New York Yankees.

Although veteran pitcher Michael King was hampered by injuries last season, making just 15 starts after transitioning to the starting role for the San Diego Padres, he is also being monitored by the two New York franchises. King dealt with shoulder and knee injuries in 2025.

Yankees, Mets face stiff competition for Japanese pitcher Tatsuya Imai's signature

Tatsuya Imai was posted by the NPB's Seibu Lions in November and has until Jan. 2 to sign with a team. He is coming off a career year in 2025, posting a career-best 1.92 ERA and 0.89 WHIP in 163 innings in Japan.

He is also drawing interest from the Boston Red Sox, Philadelphia Phillies and Chicago Cubs. However, the coveted Japanese pitcher is unlikely to sign with a team this week as he is expected to visit teams after the Winter Meetings next week.

It will be interesting to see which team will win the race for the former NPB ace and hand him a lucrative deal in free agency, as he won’t be limited to international bonus pool restrictions.