Major League Baseball (MLB) recorded its highest attendance totals in seven years, with World Series TV ratings soaring due to the star-studded matchup between the Los Angeles Dodgers and other teams. The Dodgers’ offseason spending spree has drawn criticism, but Twins players are embracing it as a challenge.
The Dodgers committed over $380 million to sign top free agents like Blake Snell, Tanner Scott, and Teoscar Hernández, making them one of the most expensive teams in the league. Despite this, Twins players have no issues with the Dodgers’ spending, viewing it as an opportunity to be part of a competitive team.
“It’s good for the game,” said Twins starter Pablo López. “You grow up dreaming of making it to the big leagues and getting paid a lot of money as a free agent. A competitive team like them using their resources to stay competitive is exciting.”
The Dodgers’ estimated Opening Day payroll of $320 million surpasses the Twins’ $140 million, with some fans and owners calling for a salary cap to be implemented. However, López believes that in a free market system, teams like the Dodgers will continue to spend aggressively to stay ahead.
“The expanded playoffs help,” said Twins reliever Griffin Jax. “There hasn’t been a back-to-back World Series winner in 20 years. That’s parity right there.”
The Twins’ own payroll is significantly lower than the Dodgers’, but they are expected to make some changes during spring training, including potentially receiving more at-bats and taking more batting practice on the field.
As the season approaches, fans will be watching to see how the Dodgers’ spending strategy pays off, and whether other teams can keep up.
Source: https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-twins-salaries-los-angeles-dodgers-free-agency-spring-training/601221385