The Dodgers’ Winning Strategy: Beyond High Payrolls

The Los Angeles Dodgers are often criticized for allegedly ruining baseball. Many fans, media, and opposing owners argue for a salary cap, aiming to secure more profits. Yet, a few years back, the Dodgers were criticized as a laughingstock in the sport.

After their 2020 World Series victory in Arlington, some dismissed the win as insignificant. In the 2021 season, despite winning 106 games, they lost in the playoffs to the Atlanta Braves, who had an 88-73 record. The 2022 season saw them win 111 games, only to secure one postseason win before falling to the 89-73 San Diego Padres in the NLDS. By 2023, despite winning 100 games, they were swept by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the NLDS. These repeated setbacks led some fans to label them as chokers, highlighting that they hadn’t won a full-season title since 1988.

Throughout these seasons, the Dodgers’ high payroll was notable. Despite this, they lost to teams with fewer than 90 wins. Fast forward, and they face villainization, similarly to the Yankees teams of the late 1990s. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts acknowledges the criticism, commenting on its lack of depth in a discussion with USA TODAY Sports.

“My honest opinion is the majority of takes about the Dodgers couldn’t be more lazy,” Roberts states. “It’s not just about the payroll. It’s the draft, player development, and consistent performance at the major-league level.”

Roberts sees criticism as a competitive advantage. Utility player Miguel Rojas adds, “Spending money doesn’t guarantee success. Other teams close in payroll haven’t won.” The Dodgers were pivotal in their 2025 World Series victory against the Toronto Blue Jays. Max Muncy’s late game home run, Miguel Rojas’s game-tying homer, and Will Smith, a first-round draft pick turned top catcher, played key roles.

The 2024 NLCS MVP, Tommy Edman, and reliever Will Klein, claimed off waivers, were crucial in the victory. Klein’s improvement was noticeable, underscoring the Dodgers’ knack for scouting talent. Roberts adds about the Dodgers’ success, “Having high payroll aids in depth but identifying and developing players is vital.”

Roberts emphasizes that winning isn’t solely about spending. Examples include the Mets and Yankees, who haven’t won titles in years despite high spending. In the offseason, the Dodgers added Kyle Tucker and Edwin Diaz. However, unexpected players like Klein and homegrown talents have driven their success. This underscores the Dodgers’ talent recognition over mere financial investment.

The Dodgers’ approach of finding unheralded players highlights their strategic advantage. Complaints about money are seen as lazy, missing the broader picture of their multidimensional success strategy.