The 2024 World Series: A Clash of Titans
The 2024 World Series is shaping up to be a spectacle like no other, even before the first pitch is thrown. This year, the storied rivalry between the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers takes center stage for the 12th time in baseball history. Both teams boast star-studded rosters, and this edition of the Fall Classic features two of the most expensive lineups in Major League Baseball (MLB). With marquee players like Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, Juan Soto, and Aaron Judge, fans are in for a treat this October.
The Financial Powerhouses: Payrolls of the Yankees and Dodgers
As the World Series approaches, it’s no surprise that both the Yankees and Dodgers have invested heavily in their rosters. The financial commitment reflects not only the talent on the field but also the expectations that come with competing for a championship.
2024 Payroll Summaries
The Yankees have a total adjusted payroll of approximately $309.4 million, making them one of the highest spenders in the league. This figure includes $260.73 million allocated to their active roster, alongside $25.23 million for players on the injured list and additional costs for retained players. The Dodgers, while also formidable, have a total adjusted payroll of about $241 million, with $171.998 million dedicated to their active roster and $37.949 million for injured players.
| Team | Active Roster | Injured List | Total Adjusted Payroll |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yankees | $260.73M | $25.231M | $309.434M |
| Dodgers | $171.998M | $37.949M | $241.010M |
The Impact of Injuries on Roster Value
Injuries have played a significant role in shaping the rosters of both teams. The Dodgers have faced a slew of pitching injuries, including those to star pitchers Tyler Glasnow and Clayton Kershaw, who rank among the highest earners on the team. Conversely, the Yankees have managed to keep their core players relatively healthy, allowing them to field a lineup that features high-profile stars like Soto, Judge, Gerrit Cole, and Giancarlo Stanton.
Projected Starting Lineups and Payrolls
As the teams prepare for Game 1 of the World Series, the projected starting lineups reveal a stark contrast in payroll allocations. The Yankees’ active roster is valued at around $255 million, with approximately $180 million earmarked for their starting lineup. In comparison, the Dodgers’ starting roster is valued at just over $106 million, significantly less than their opponents.
Projected Starting Lineups
| Yankees Position | Payroll Salary | Dodgers Position | Payroll Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aaron Judge (CF) | $40M | Mookie Betts (RF) | $30M |
| Gerrit Cole (SP) | $36M | Freddie Freeman (1B) | $27M |
| Giancarlo Stanton (DH) | $32M | Teoscar Hernandez (LF) | $15M |
| Juan Soto (RF) | $31M | Chris Taylor (2B) | $13M |
| Carlos Rodon (SP) | $27.83M | Will Smith (C) | $11.55M |
| Anthony Rizzo (1B) | $17M | Max Muncy (3B) | $9.5M |
| Gleyber Torres (2B) | $14.2M | Alex Verdugo (LF) | $9.2M |
| Yoshinobu Yamamoto (SP) | $9.167M | Jack Flaherty (SP) | $4.667M |
| Miguel Rojas (SS) | $5.76M | Enrique Hernandez (CF) | $4M |
The Unique Case of Shohei Ohtani
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Dodgers’ roster is the unique contract situation of Shohei Ohtani. The two-way superstar signed a record-breaking 10-year deal worth $700 million, which includes $680 million in deferred payments. As a result, Ohtani will only earn $2 million annually until 2034, making him the lowest-paid starter on the Dodgers’ World Series roster. This financial maneuvering allows the Dodgers to allocate resources elsewhere while still benefiting from Ohtani’s immense talent.
Payroll Rankings in MLB
The Yankees and Dodgers are not just competing for the championship; they are also among the highest payrolls in MLB history. In 2024, the Yankees rank second overall with a payroll of $309.4 million, while the Dodgers sit in fifth place at $241 million. This financial commitment underscores the importance of investing in talent to achieve success on the field.
| MLB Rank | Team | 2024 Total Payroll |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mets | $317,777,899 |
| 2 | Yankees | $309,434,607 |
| 3 | Astros | $255,271,371 |
| 4 | Phillies | $247,149,605 |
| 5 | Dodgers | $241,010,177 |
The Road Ahead
As the 2024 World Series approaches, fans can expect a thrilling matchup between two of baseball’s most storied franchises. With star players, hefty payrolls, and a rich history of competition, the stage is set for an unforgettable Fall Classic. Whether you’re rooting for the Yankees or the Dodgers, one thing is certain: this World Series promises to deliver excitement, drama, and a showcase of elite talent.