Dodgers Aim for Third Consecutive World Series Title
The Los Angeles Dodgers are gearing up for the 2026 season with hopes of clinching their third straight World Series title. They’ve bolstered their already impressive 40-man roster by adding yet another All-Star.
This surge in spending has led to complaints from some in the baseball community about the financial moves the Dodgers are making in the open market. Yet, it raises an interesting question: how do players from rival teams view the “super team” that general manager Brandon Gomez has assembled?
San Diego Padres’ third baseman Manny Machado expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “I love it. I think every team should do it, to be honest. They figured out a way to do it, and it’s great for the game.”
Philadelphia Phillies All-Star Bryce Harper echoed this sentiment. He commented on the Dodgers’ financial strategy, noting, “Honestly, I love what the Dodgers are doing. They’re paying money… They run the team like a business, and they run it the right way.”
The Dodgers begin the season with a staggering payroll of $400 million, surpassing the New York Mets at approximately $368.3 million and the New York Yankees at around $333.25 million. The Phillies ($311.18 million) and Padres ($257.84 million) also rank high on this list, with Machado and Harper both receiving substantial contracts during their careers. These payouts are, of course, well-deserved.
This ambitious spending in Los Angeles has stirred up some fans, who claim the Dodgers might be “ruining baseball.” Compounding matters, the collective bargaining agreement will expire on December 1, 2026, possibly leading to an MLB lockout centered on salary cap debates.
However, both Machado and Harper appreciate the financial opportunities the Dodgers’ strategies create for players. They believe it reflects fair compensation. Small-market teams lacking the Dodgers’ financial muscle face challenges, but Machado argues that this isn’t a valid excuse.
“I think every team has the ability to do that,” Machado stated, expressing hope that all teams can emulate the Dodgers. Harper concurred, emphasizing that while not every team may have top-tier funds, they can still draft, develop, and trade effectively.
In response to critics claiming the Dodgers are damaging the sport, Gomez maintained a focused approach. “I don’t pay any attention to that. We’re not looking outward. What we’re measured on is winning championships and producing as good a team as we can every year,” he said.
The Dodgers recently secured outfielder Kyle Tucker with a four-year, $240 million contract and closer Edwin Diaz for three years at $69 million. They successfully defended their championship title last season in a captivating seven-game World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays.
