Yankees and Dodgers predicted to ignite wild offseason battle

The 2025-26 MLB offseason looks ready to fire up around two giants: the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers. Both clubs are chasing the same top-tier free agents and making aggressive moves that could reshape the league before the first pitch of spring training.
Last winter, the Yankees watched Juan Soto slip away to the Mets while the Dodgers kept stockpiling stars. This time, New York seems determined to strike first, and they have their sights set on one of baseball’s most complete players. According to the latest from Bleacher Report, both teams will be ready for the hot stove to turn on.
Yankees expected to make massive offer for Kyle Tucker
The Yankees front office has made it clear they are not standing still. Kyle Tucker, the most valuable free agent on the market, fits their needs perfectly. He is a left-handed bat with power, speed, and steady production, the type of all-around threat the team has lacked besides Aaron Judge.
Tucker hit .281 with 22 home runs, 25 stolen bases, and another All-Star nod in 2025 during his only season with the Cubs. His next contract could top $40 million per year, and the Yankees are prepared to pay it. Their outfield could soon feature Judge, Tucker, and possibly a returning Cody Bellinger if the market allows.
Losing Soto hurt, and ownership has hinted that the next big signing will show New York is still willing to outspend everyone. Tucker would be the kind of move that reminds the league the Yankees are still baseball’s financial heavyweight.
Dodgers could reunite with Cody Bellinger
In Los Angeles, the goal is to reload, not rebuild. The Dodgers came up short in the postseason but remain in championship mode. Left field remains their biggest weakness, and if Tucker lands in the Bronx, the next logical move could be a reunion with Cody Bellinger.
Bellinger’s journey back to stardom has been remarkable. Once an MVP with the Dodgers, he struggled through two down years before being cut loose. Since then, he has rebuilt his swing and confidence with the Cubs and Yankees, posting strong averages and rediscovering his power. A return to Dodger Stadium now feels both practical and emotional.
MORE: Cubs’ weird decision turned Shota Imanaga into an unexpected free agent
A multi-year deal with a strong average salary could bring him back. His ability to play all three outfield positions and first base gives Los Angeles even more roster flexibility, something the front office values highly.
Two clubs, one mission
The Yankees and Dodgers share the same goal: dominance. New York wants to reclaim its place as the sport’s top spender. Los Angeles wants to keep proving that smart roster building and relentless depth can win just as big.
Their offseason rivalry might define the entire winter. If Tucker joins the Yankees, expect the Dodgers to respond quickly. If Bellinger heads back west, the Yankees could pivot again.
Either way, these two powerhouses are about to light up baseball’s offseason and make every headline worth watching.
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