The Dodgers made a big splash at the trade deadline by acquiring Tarik Skubal, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they came out on top.
The Brewers were also in the running for Skubal in what could have been a major deal, yet managed to defeat the Dodgers even without landing the two-time Cy Young Award winner.
In a recent appearance on The Post’s “The Show” podcast, Brewers owner Mark Attanasio talked about their efforts to acquire Skubal and threw a subtle shade at the Dodgers.
“This team was built, not bought. It’s important to consider how we got here. We want long-term success, which meant being cautious about how many prospects we part with,” Attanasio noted.
He added, “I thought a lot about it. If we hadn’t won that Game 4, we might have faced Skubal and [Yoshinobu Yamamoto] again, and who knows—could’ve seen a Game 7.”
This year’s World Series raises some intriguing points with both the Brewers and Rays reaching the final stage as smaller-market teams.
The Dodgers, despite carrying the highest payroll among the last four teams in MLB, were ousted by Milwaukee in just four games.
Attanasio’s point is valid; the Brewers have spent years crafting a competitive roster and appear poised to claim the Commissioner’s Trophy. Still, many critics of the Dodgers often overlook the strength of their farm system.
While financial resources enable the Dodgers to make substantial investments, it’s their ability to execute major trades, thanks to elite prospects, that has helped them secure back-to-back World Series titles.
While Skubal may not have guaranteed another championship for the Dodgers, he undoubtedly enhanced their prospects.
What the Dodgers decide to do this winter could significantly influence the longevity of their dynasty.
