The financial dynamics of the World Series have come into sharp focus as two top payroll teams, the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays, prepare to compete. This edition of the series showcases significant disparities in financial commitments and strategies surrounding both teams.
Overview of Payrolls and Financial Commitments
During the 2025 season, the Los Angeles Dodgers maintained the league’s highest Competitive Balance Tax (CBT) payroll at $417 million. They stand $75 million ahead of the next highest team, the Blue Jays, who round out the top five with their financial investments.
The Dodgers’ total financial commitment will exceed $585 million, considering their anticipated CBT payment of $169 million. This impressive expenditure underscores the revenue streams that support their high costs.
Comparison of 26-Man Rosters
As the World Series kicks off, the Dodgers will present a 26-man roster with a payroll significantly greater than the Blue Jays. The Dodgers’ tax payroll surpasses the Blue Jays’ by $125 million. Notably, Shohei Ohtani’s $46 million tax hit has been included in the calculations for the Dodgers’ roster.
- Dodgers CBT Payroll: $417 million
- Blue Jays CBT Payroll: Approx. $342 million
- Dodgers Total Financial Commitment: $585 million
- Payroll Gap: $125 million between Dodgers and Blue Jays
Major Contracts and Player Salaries
Several high-value contracts highlight the financial landscape of both teams. Noteworthy players include:
- Shohei Ohtani (Dodgers): $700 million contract with a $680 million deferred payment, $46 million CBT hit.
- Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (Blue Jays): $500 million extension starting next season, current salary of $48.5 million.
- Mookie Betts (Dodgers): $365 million contract, with $115 million deferred until 2033.
- Yoshinobu Yamamoto (Dodgers): $325 million over 12 years; no salary deferral involved.
- Blake Snell (Dodgers): $182 million deal with $64.8 million earned this season.
Upcoming Offseason Decisions
As the season concludes, both teams face key decisions regarding their rosters. The Blue Jays have several players approaching free agency:
- Bo Bichette (SS): Expected to command an 8-year contract worth $186 million.
- Shane Bieber (SP): Likely to decline a $16 million player option.
- Pending Free Agents: Includes players such as RP Seranthony Dominguez and 1B Ty France.
The Dodgers will also navigate decisions, particularly regarding Max Muncy, who has a $10 million club option for 2026. Other notable pending free agents include OF Michael Conforto and pitchers Kirby Yates and Michael Kopech.
The financial implications of the World Series reflect not only the strategies of each team but also the significant investment in player talent. This year’s competition promises to provide insights into how financial decisions impact performance on the field.
