Part 4/7:
The current situation presents a conundrum for the landscape of MLB. The disparity between the big-market teams and smaller franchises poses a pressing issue. The Dodgers, with their enormous financial leverage, are turning the salary structure of baseball on its head. Critics point out that teams like the Pittsburgh Pirates and others continue to struggle because of ownerships that prioritize profit over competitive fairness.
The looming complications hint at a potential lockout after the 2026 season. The frustration among smaller-market teams regarding the Dodgers’ tactics may lead to calls for a salary cap — albeit a challenging proposition, given the powerful players' association which vehemently opposes such measures.