Philadelphia Phillies first baseman understands that securing a long-awaited World Series title will likely require going through powerhouse teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets. However, he embraces the challenge and has no complaints about their aggressive spending. “I think it’s great for the players,” He said Sunday. According to FanGraphs, the Dodgers have a projected payroll of $389 million, while the Mets follow closely at $331 million. Both teams have structured recent contracts with deferred payments.
The Dodgers, fresh off their second World Series title in five seasons, continued to bolster their roster by signing two-time Cy Young winner Blake Snell, Japanese pitching sensation Roki Sasaki, and relievers Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates for nearly $70 million annually. Meanwhile, the Mets made waves by securing All-Star outfielder Juan Soto on a massive 15-year, $765 million contract. After reaching the NLCS for the first time since 2015, they also retained slugging first baseman Pete Alonso and starting pitcher Sean Manaea. Bryce Harper compared the Dodgers’ approach to the Yankees’ dominance in the 2000s, praising both Los Angeles and New York for their ability to attract talent while utilizing deferred payment strategies.
The debate over baseball’s financial disparities continues, with some calling for reforms. FanGraphs reports the Miami Marlins, in a rebuilding phase, have a payroll of just $70 million—over $300 million less than the Dodgers. Regardless, Harper appreciates teams willing to invest in winning. The Phillies, with an estimated payroll of $288 million, have made the playoffs three straight seasons. Harper is one of seven Phillies earning at least $20 million this year, with ace Zack Wheeler leading the team after signing a three-year, $126 million extension that pays him $42 million annually. Time will tell if Harper, Wheeler, and the Phillies can justify their hefty salaries by delivering the franchise’s first championship since 2008.