Fresh off their second consecutive World Series title, the Los Angeles Dodgers front office, led by President Andrew Friedman, is not resting. They are quietly mapping out a bold and calculated offseason blueprint focused on three critical areas: upgrading the outfield, securing a shock reunion with Cody Bellinger, and solidifying a stunning long-term plan for pitching phenomenon Roki Sasaki.
The pursuit of a historic three-peat requires depth, and the Dodgers are using their financial power and prospect capital to create an even wider gap between themselves and the rest of Major League Baseball.
1. The Outfield Overhaul: Targeting Tucker
The Dodgers’ outfield was identified as their weakest link in 2025, particularly after the disappointment of Michael Conforto, who was left off the postseason roster. Their plan involves an aggressive pursuit of the market’s top talent:
- Primary Target: Kyle Tucker (Free Agent): The Dodgers are reported to be the clear frontrunners to “vigorously pursue” Houston Astros star Kyle Tucker (the main character in the trade rumors). Tucker is a left-handed slugger with elite defense and consistent production, a perfect fit for a team looking to balance the lineup and upgrade the defense.
- The Price Tag: Tucker is expected to command a contract in the $400 million range, a figure the Dodgers are uniquely positioned to pay.
- Trade Market: The Dodgers are also expected to rekindle trade talks for Cleveland Guardians outfielder Steven Kwan, a four-time Gold Glove winner whose elite defense and contact ability would transform the outfield defense.
2. The Shock Reunion: Bringing Back Cody Bellinger
The biggest question mark involves the sentimentally and strategically intriguing possibility of a Cody Bellinger reunion. After his resurgence with the Yankees and subsequent opt-out, the former Dodger MVP is back on the market.
- The Fit: Bellinger’s defensive versatility (outfield and first base) and his familiar history with the organization make him an “ideal fit” and a perfect fallback plan if the Dodgers miss out on Tucker.
- The Narrative: Reuniting with Bellinger would be both a strategic move—adding a potent left-handed bat who knows the system—and a sentimental move that the fanbase would fully embrace.
- Market Prediction: MLB Trade Rumors projects Bellinger could secure a five-year, $140 million deal, a price that is manageable for Los Angeles.
3. Long-Term Plan: Roki Sasaki Returns to the Rotation
One of the most defining moves for the Dodgers’ long-term greatness is the plan for Japanese phenomenon Roki Sasaki. After struggling with consistency and command in his initial starts, the young phenom was moved to the bullpen late in 2025, where he excelled (recording a 0.84 ERA in 9 playoff appearances).
- The Future is Rotation: Dodgers GM Brandon Gomes has confirmed that despite his star turn as a reliever, Sasaki is “absolutely” going back to the starting rotation in 2026.
- The 2026 Rotation: Sasaki will compete for a permanent spot alongside a surplus of established talent, including Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Blake Snell, and Tyler Glasnow. This commitment underscores the Dodgers’ dedication to developing their massive investment in the young starter and maintaining an elite rotation for years to come.
The Dodgers are clearly positioning themselves to acquire a superstar outfielder. Would you like the latest update on the rumored price tag and competition for their top target, Kyle Tucker?
