Player Moves North After Dodgers Stint, Faces Court Date
Yasiel Puig, a former All-Star with the Los Angeles Dodgers, has signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs baseball club. The Canadian Baseball League team has inked Puig to a contract for the 2026 season, with expectations he'll be in the starting lineup in early May. This move north of the border comes as Puig faces a looming court date, the specifics of which could impact his ability to play. Puig's legal team has cited untreated mental health issues in relation to his circumstances.
The Toronto Maple Leafs' acquisition of Puig is described as the reported largest contract in Canadian Baseball League history. Team officials have expressed optimism, with one CEO calling Puig an "exciting player." Despite a drop in performance in his later MLB seasons, there's a belief within the club that Puig remains a capable athlete and is "on the right track in his personal life."
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Dodgers Departures and Other Player Movements
The Toronto signing is not the only recent significant movement involving former Dodgers players.
Tony Gonsolin, an All-Star in 2022, left the Dodgers organization as a free agent in November 2025 after clearing waivers, opting against a potential minor league deal. This departure occurred as the Dodgers aimed for a "three-peat" in the World Series.
Max Muncy revealed in December 2025 a desire to discuss a return to the Dodgers after the current season, indicating a year-to-year approach to his relationship with the team.
Taylor, a utilityman who spent ten seasons with the Dodgers, was released in May 2025 and subsequently joined the Los Angeles Angels, seeking more consistency.
Wider Context of Player Transitions and Controversies
Recent weeks have seen other Dodgers-affiliated players in the news.
Shohei Ohtani made MLB history in September 2024 by reaching the "50-50 club" for home runs and stolen bases in a single season, highlighting his unique impact.
Pitcher Brock Stewart spoke in August 2025 about returning to the Dodgers organization, making a scoreless appearance against the Rays.
In a different vein, Scott, a $72 million All-Star for the Dodgers, has been a subject of discussion regarding contract offers from the Cubs and recent performance struggles, including blown saves. He reportedly preferred a move to Chicago but the Dodgers' offer was longer.
Clayton Kershaw, a Dodgers legend, was in the news in July 2025 for his 11th All-Star selection, described as "weird" due to his not necessarily earning it on pitching performance alone but rather as a "Legend Pick." He also sent a message in March 2026 after being replaced by Dylan Hoffman on Team USA for the World Baseball Classic, following his retirement from the Dodgers after their second straight title.
A different controversy involves a player referred to as Rushing, a "$72 million All-Star" linked to the Dodgers, who faced criticism for a verbal outburst and "insensitive remark" in April 2025, drawing a public response from Cubs player Nico Hoerner.
Background on Puig's Career
Puig's career has been marked by both considerable talent and off-field issues. His arrival in Toronto signifies a move to the Canadian Baseball League, playing at Christie Pits Park. His playing future, particularly with a court date pending, adds a layer of uncertainty to his return to professional baseball.
