The Los Angeles Dodgers have been busy this offseason, making some major moves to bolster their roster. They’ve landed some top free agents, including pitcher Blake Snell and Japanese pitching sensation Roki Sasaki. They’ve also kept some key players in the fold, guys who were instrumental in their recent World Series championship.
The Dodgers have become known for their strategy of using deferred payments in player contracts. Shohei Ohtani’s massive deal includes significant deferrals, and other stars like Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Tommy Edman have similar arrangements.
For the Dodgers, these deferrals are a way to manage their current payroll while still being able to sign elite players. It’s a financial balancing act. However, this approach hasn’t been universally popular with fans around the league. Some feel like the Dodgers are taking advantage of the system, creating an uneven playing field. There’s a sense that they’re “breaking baseball” by using this strategy. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has addressed these concerns, stating that the Dodgers are operating within the current rules. Despite this, fans have taken to social media to voice their concerns and frustrations about the way the league is handling the situation.
Fan reactions on social media are varied. Some fans suggest that the Dodgers’ financial clout makes it difficult for the league to criticize their spending. Others argue that the current rules surrounding deferred contracts and international signings create an unfair system, and that if these rules were more balanced, the Dodgers’ payroll would be significantly higher. Some fans also pointed out that the league seems hesitant to say anything negative about Ohtani or the Dodgers, while acknowledging that the team is technically following the rules.
Regardless of where everyone stands on the Dodgers’ spending, one thing is certain: they’re gearing up for a strong run in the 2025 season.
The Dodgers are looking stacked for another dominant season, boasting a pitching rotation that’s seriously impressive. Snell and Sasaki join an already strong group that includes Tyler Glasnow, giving the Dodgers a ton of options on the mound.
One of the most exciting developments for Dodgers fans is the return of Ohtani as a two-way player. After focusing solely on hitting in 2024, the Japanese superstar is back to pitching. Manager Dave Roberts has indicated that Ohtani is expected to be back on the mound around mid-May or June, and fans are definitely excited about that.
The Dodgers might not be done making moves either. They’ve been linked to free agent Kike Hernandez, a fan favorite who could add depth and versatility to the roster.
With a roster that’s already packed with talent and the potential for even more additions, the Dodgers are once again a top contender for the championship in 2025.
