A billion dollars. This is the combined payroll of the four clubs considered favorites for the World Series in the National. Many teams are now simply trying to buy a championship.
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The Mets, Padres, Dodgers and Braves are paying their players $966 million this year. They rank among the top four teams in the National League, but also as the most spending. Only the Phillies, which surprisingly made it to the World Series last year, spend as much as these teams.
For example, the Pirates, Reds, Nationals and Marlins spend five times less. The league average is $147.8 million.
If we go back 20 years, the four top-grossing teams at the National paid their players $411 million.
After years of disappointment, the Mets finally delivered the goods last year. Many thanks to manager Buck Showalter for cleaning up a locker room that will be paid out $336 million this year. With the arrival of Justin Verlander, the Mets start in the lead, but practically nose-to-nose with the Braves.
The latter have no weakness and an attack to dream of. It gets very hot east of the National.
California duel
The other hot fight will be against California’s rivals: the Padres and the Dodgers.
Tired of not standing a chance against the overcrowded Dodgers year after year, the Padres’ owner (arrived in 2012), Peter Seidler, decided his team would attend the dance.
Ten years ago, the team’s payroll was $71 million. It’s $223 million this year, $6 million more than the Dodgers. Seidler, a financial genius whose company is valued at $3.5 billion, changed the face of the franchise.
Still, the Dodgers have been the favorites every year. But it’s less clear this year, with Los Angeles dropping a few plays while the Padres added a big one in former Red Sox Xander Bogaerts, who was a fan favorite in Boston for no logical reason. You’ll get bored quickly.
EAST SECTION
New York food
> Managing Director: Buck Showalter
› Sheet 2022: 101-61
> Rank: 2nd in the east
› Significant acquisition: Justin Verlander
› Significant disposals: Jacob deGrom, Chris Bassitt
Analysis :
The Mets were the top spending team last year. And this winter they signed Justin Verlander to a year and $40 million. It’s $1.27 million per start and it’s the same salary as his teammate Max Scherzer. It will be difficult to lose with these two machines. At 38 and 40, Scherzer and Verlander don’t brake that much. But if they get injured, it could sink the Mets, while the battle with the Braves and the Phillies will likely be hot. 30-year-old bowler Kodai Senga finally lands here after 11 years of dominating Japan. It’s fascinating, but nothing is that clear. He should start the year alternately. The attack will of course still be explosive. But beware, Edwin Diaz, the league’s best helper and his terrible trumpet tune, who just signed a $100 million 5-year deal, could miss the entire season after suffering a nasty injury while celebrating at the World Classic.
Atlanta Braves
> Managing Director: Brian Snitker
› Sheet 2022: 101-61
> Rank: 1st in the east
› Significant acquisition: Sean Murphy
› Significant disposals: Dansby Swanson, Kenley Jansen
Analysis :
The Braves were pretty quiet on the free agents side, except for Alex Anthopoulos scoring a biggest hit with the trade that earned one of the league’s top receivers. Sean Murphy in Atlanta. If everyone still sees the team among the top clubs this year, it is obviously for the same reason they are so often at the top: the pitchers. The rotation is solid from start to finish and the Braves have one of the best bullpen in the world in AJ Minter and Raisel Iglesias. Third baseman Austin Riley has already proven himself to be more than just a good small hitter, establishing himself at the heart of this very diverse offense. With Matt Olson and Ronald Acuna Jr. already too strong and still in learning mode, Atlanta will quickly be in the Mets’ rearview mirror, if not vice versa.
Philadelphia Phillies
> Managing Director: Rob Thomson
› Sheet 2022: 87-75
> Rank: 3rd in the east
› Important acquisitions: Trea Turner, Taijuan Walker
› Significant disposals: Noah Syndergaard, Kyle Gibson, and Jean Segura
Analysis :
It was hard to predict what kind of season the Phillies would have last year. They ended up having a pretty bad start to the year, firing manager Joe Girardi, not being all that bad and miraculously making it into the World Series. Every month was a surprise. It’s similar this year. The team doesn’t have enough tools, especially in relief, to play at the level of the Braves or the Mets. But their ace Aaron Nola came back very strong last year. Bryce Harper has shown he’s capable of being the best hitter in the world when it counts, but we may not see him until the All-Star Game. Nick Castellanos can’t do worse than last year. So there are encouraging signs and obviously, like last year, the Phillies have one of the strongest offenses. And not just on paper. They proved that statistically last year when they were among the top teams in home runs, hits and RBIs. Few pitchers are in the mood to take on the Phillies. Remember the name of Andrew Painter, who at 19 is one of baseball’s most handsome prospects.
Miami Marlin
> Managing Director: Skip Schumacher
› Sheet 2022: 69-93
> Rank: 4th in the east
› Significant acquisition: Luis Arraez
› Significant disposals: Brian Anderson, Pablo Lopez
Analysis :
After a few years of spending less than $50 million on their payroll, the Marlins are starting to unfold more cash with an $81 million payroll. It’s well below average, but it gives a little flavor and hope to this organization that has seemed stuck on the highway for a number of years. Last year they should not be underestimated for the quality of their gunners. In fact, Miami was in the top 10 best clubs in the league in that regard, largely thanks sandy alcantara, Cy Young winner. The problem is that they still suffered 93 casualties. Offensively it was sad. It could be less this year with the arrival of the spectacular Luis Arraez from the Twins (in exchange for Pablo Lopez’s start). Young sensation Jazz Chisholm Jr. was injured for a long time last year. He already has the talent to deflect an attack. Offensively there are still too many holes. Could young manager Skip Schumaker’s arrival have the same impact as Kevin Cash did at the Rays? Let’s hope so. It’s about time something happened in Miami.
Washington nationals
> Managing Director: Dave Martinez
› Sheet 2022: 55-107
> Rank: 5. in the east
› Significant acquisition: Trevor Williams
› Significant disposals: Nelson Cruz
Analysis :
The Nationals could hardly be as bad as last year. Stephen Strasburg, at $35 million, pitched four innings. Patrick Corbin was in good shape at $23 million. But maybe he shouldn’t have been. He finished the season with 6 wins and 19 losses. His earned running average: 6.31. He gave up 210 hits in 152 innings. It’s one of the worst contracts in baseball history. Luckily, Juan Soto’s trade last summer changed their future as they added six young prospects and now make Washington one of the most promising teams going forward. But in the meantime Keibert Ruiz, CJ Abrams and Victor Robles can’t pull the club very far offensively. Keep an eye on: Cade Cavalli, a very tall, fire-throwing right-hander who has dominated everywhere he has been since his first-round call-up in 2020. He should earn a position in the rotation and is exiting the year as one of the rookie favorites of the year.
MIDDLE SECTION
St. Louis Cardinals
> Managing Director: Oliver Marble
› Sheet 2022: 93-69
> Rank: 1st in the middle
› Significant acquisition: Wilson Contreras
› Significant disposals: Yadier Molina, Albert Pujols, Jose Quintana, Corey Dickerson
Analysis :
The Cards will be looking to make the playoffs for the fifth straight year, or 15 in 20 years. It’s amazing, especially for a club that finds itself in the middle of the pack when it comes to payroll. But the players want to play there and the team has managed to maintain a tradition of loyalty. It’s the end of an era with Yadier Molina’s retirement, but his replacement by Wilson Contreras will quickly wipe away tears. The Cardinals are still going into the playoffs and there’s no indication they won’t be as dominant this year. Their ace, Jack Flaherty, is in fine form. Miles Mikolas will be better. At 41, Adam Wainwright refuses to age. That means there are three tough starters to beat alongside Quintana and Steven Matz. The successor will still be amazing. The Canadian’s attack is still well balanced Tyler O’Neil, Paul Goldschmidt, Nolan Arenado, Dylan Carlson and Tommy Edman. Also keep an eye out for Jordan Walker, a huge multipurpose player who could make a name for himself by 20. He could be the next face of the franchise.
Milwaukee Brewers
> Managing Director: Craig Counsel
› Sheet 2022: 86-76
> Rank: 2nd in the middle
› Important acquisitions: Jesse Winker, Abraham Toro
› Significant disposals: Hunter Renfroe, Brad Boxberger, and Kolten Wong.
Analysis :
This is another club that does a lot with less money than the others. It’s a team I’ve loved for several years, but despite their good winter management, I don’t think it will be enough to outperform the Cardinals. The window had opened in Milwaukee, but many players will have to give a lot because it closes. The starters should still be among the best in the league Corbin Burnes, Brandon Woodruff, Freddy Peralta and Eric Lauer. For relief, apart from Devin Williams, doubts remain. Offensively, the new signing from Jesse Winker should take the pressure off the former Jays Rowdy Tellez, who became the crowd favorite with his power last year. Christian Yelich has to give more and stay healthy. The arrival of Quebecer Abraham Toro could be very interesting for the Brewers. With Special Defenses banned, Toro is able to voice his power on the left side of the plate. If he scores as he can, coach Craig Counsell, who was a Toro-style player, could love him and often earn him a place in the lineup.
Chicago Cubs
> Managing Director: DavidRoss
› Sheet 2022: 74-88
> Rank: 3rd in the middle
› Important acquisitions: Dansby Swanson, Cody Bellinger, Jameson Taillon
› Significant disposal: Wilson Contreras
Analysis :
After two years of misery, the Cubs will be back to normal this year with the departure of Wilson Contreras, one of the league’s top receivers. It would be amazing if they managed to play around .500. The arrival of Jameson Taillon could help a rotation that was terrible last year. Ditto for next-gen with the addition of Brad Boxberger. The Cubs also have several spectacular helpers who will give many wins. Offensively, it’s not enough to compare yourself to the Cards or the Brewers. Jan Happ is becoming a superstar, but Cody Bellinger needs to regain his composure to back him up. The end of Special Defense will help him a lot. Outfielder Seiya Suzuki can also land another signing after a very interesting first season. Watch out for infielder Matt Mervis, an intriguing 39th-round pick who has proven to be a monstrous hitter in the minor leagues. Cubs fans dream of it and he could make the leap this year.
Cincinnati Red
> Managing Director: David bell
› Sheet 2022: 62-100
> Rank: 5th in the middle
› Important acquisitions: Kevin Newman, Nick Solak
› Significant disposal: Kyle Farmer
Analysis :
I feel sorry for the reds. How can a team with so much history be so mediocre year after year? It will be the Reds’ 143rd season this year. They have only made the playoffs 16 times, including 5 times in the last 30 years. So Cincinnati is still in the midst of rebuilding after undoing the momentum the team had in making the playoffs in 2020. It’s not that dark either, and watching the Reds can still be good entertainment for youngsters Hunter Greene (and his rapid fire) and Nick Lodolo will be at the hill. They should be the two pillars of rotation. Reliever Alexis Diaz, Edwin’s brother, also showed last season that he has what it takes to be a top stopper. Attack will be average led by Jonathan India, Tyler Stephenson and Joey Votto. Elly De La Cruz, the team’s top prospect in all of Major League Baseball, a 6-foot-5 Dominican shortstop, could make the jump this summer. He could be a small consolation in what promises to be a very difficult season.
Pittsburgh Pirates
> Managing Director: Derek Shelton
› Sheet 2022: 62-100
> Rank: 4th in the middle
› Important acquisitions: Vince Velasquez, Carlos Santana, Ji-Man Choi
› Significant disposal: Kevin Neuman
Analysis :
The Pirates have made the playoffs three times in the past 30 years. And for their 8th straight season, they still won’t be coming in with the third-smallest payroll. The team seems to be in perpetual rebuilding. Their star player Bryan Reynolds wants to be traded and get out of this mess. Owner since 2007, Robert Nutting, has come under fire for refusing to pull out the checkbook to take the team to another level. Nutting denounces Major League Baseball’s economic structure and calls on the league to find an equal solution. Some young pirates still have a good show to offer. Ke’Bryan Hayes becomes superstar and shortstop Oneil Cruz, who regularly makes sports headlines with his cannon arm. At 23, Roansy Contreras will be taking over the rotation alongside good old Rich Hill and newcomer Vince Velasquez. Promising, starter JT Brubaker will have to give more to show he belongs in the majors. Everyone saw him as better than what he offered last year.
WEST SECTION
Los Angeles Dodgers
> Managing Director: David Roberts
› Sheet 2022: 111-51
> Rank: 1st in the west
› Important acquisitions: Noah Syndergaard, JD Martinez
› Significant disposals: Trea Turner, Cody Bellinger, Justin Turner, Joey Gallo, Tyler Anderson, Andrew Heaney, Craig Kimbrel, David Price
Analysis :
For the first time in several years, the Dodgers faltered in the offseason. The loss of many is not offset by the arrival of the aging Noah Syndergaard and JD Martinez. And despite all that, the Dodgers will likely finish first in their section. Even before the Padres, who were betting big on dominating the west of the National. The latter are also among the five clubs set to spend more than the Dodgers this season. And as if the Dodgers weren’t rich and good enough, it should be pointed out that they still have one of the best prospects in baseball. By the way, the 23-year-old infielder Miguel Varga should take the plunge this year. This young Cuban sensation has been in the Dodgers organization for 5 years and will be in contention for Rookie of the Year. It’s going to be very good. In the pros, he never hit below .300. Otherwise, the Dodgers will continue to dominate offensively with the Freemans, Betts and Smiths while the rotation will still be impressive.
San Diego Padres
> Managing Director: Bob Melvin
› Sheet 2022: 89-73
> Rank: 2nd in the west
› Significant acquisition: Xander Bogaerts
› Significant disposals: Josh Bell, Sean Manaea, Mike Clevinger, Will Myers and Jurickson Profar
Analysis :
Soto, Machado, Tati’s son and Bogaerts, what more could you ask for? No launcher will be able to look good when facing these four monsters. Tatis Jr.’s suspension last year significantly slowed the Padres, who are looking to oust the Dodgers this year. It can happen, but I have serious doubts. Aside from Yu Darvish and Joe Musgrove, the rest of the rotation isn’t as strong as the Dodgers. Obviously with Josh Hader As the number one reliever, the Padres rarely need to make runs past the 8th inning. But it’s better to work out this whole Padres plan, because after all their dealings, the prospect bank is practically empty. Still, with a very wealthy owner in San Diego, there always seems to be solutions now.
Arizona Diamondbacks
> Managing Director: Torey Lovello
› Sheet 2022: 74-88
> Rank: 4. in the west
› Important acquisitions: Kyle Lewis, Miguel Castro, Evan Longoria, Lourdes Gurriel Jr.
› Significant disposal: Dalton Varsho
Analysis :
Arizona has won 52 games in 2021 and 74 last year. It’s crazy, it’s 22 more wins in one year. The rebuilding of the Diamondbacks must make several markets envious. They will keep improving and risk playing over the 500 mark this season. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. remains young and should solidly help an offense she needed. The addition of veteran Evan Longoria will help the younger players. The first goal
Christian Walker is becoming the new superstar. However, the future is corbin carroll, their first-round pick in 2019. And the Diamondbacks have already made up their minds and taken the risk of signing him for an 8-year, $111 million contract extension. Considered one of baseball’s brightest talents, he has played in more than 30 big league games in the past year. Number one pitcher Zac Gallen is likely to remain one of the best pitchers in the world for a long time. But it’s surrounded by a slightly scary rotation. In short, Arizona will continue to evolve and soon be able to afford a few bigger earners to aim for the playoffs and beyond.
San Francisco Giants
> Managing Director: Gab Kapler
› Sheet 2022: 81-81
> Rank: 3rd in the west
› Important acquisitions: Mitch Haniger, Sean Manaea
› Significant disposals: Carlos Rodon, Brandon Belt, and Evan Longoria
Analysis :
No one will ever know how close Aaron Judge came to signing with the Giants, but it would have been one of the most spectacular signings in baseball history. Also remember that they managed to get along with Carlos Correa but the team changed their mind after the physical tests. San Francisco had a normal season in 2022 after dominating 2021. But I think 2021 was an anomaly. It’s a good club, pretty complete, but can’t hope to compete with the Dodgers or the Padres. In fact, I think the Diamondbacks can surpass them. your ace Logan Webb is awesome, but the rest of the rotation can be both good and bad. The Giants are therefore looking to younger players, with the departure of Brandon Belt shortstop Brandon Crawford becoming the last player to appear in their last World Series. Not being able to sign big names as free agents, the team seems to have decided this is a transitional year in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Colorado Rockies
> Managing Director: Bud Black
› Sheet 2022: 68-94
> Rank: 5. in the west
› Important acquisitions: Pierce Johnson, Sam Hilliard, Nolan Jones
› Significant disposals: Jose Iglesias, Chad Kuhl
Analysis :
The Rockies will be the worst team in the best division in my opinion. You won’t be very strong, but anything but mediocre. The team has been bogged down with questionable decisions in recent years, but Rockies fans are in for a better season. Starters German Marquez and Kyle Freeland always give a chance to win. One of the finest stories in major league baseball, Daniel Bard stands out as one of the league’s finest assists. With Chris Bryant, Charlie Blackmon, Ryan McMahon and Randal Grichuk, the attack isn’t awkward at all. One name you’re likely to hear for a long time is Ezequiel Tovar, who could become the Rockies’ regular shortstop by the time he’s 21. This Venezuelan phenomenon played 9 games for Colorado last year after hitting .319s in both AA and AAA.