Dodgers Embrace Role as Baseball’s Villains: Why They Don’t Mind
Spring training is just around the corner, and the Los Angeles Dodgers are already embracing their role as baseball’s villains. The team’s frenetic spending this offseason has put a target on their backs, making them the hunted in every game they play. But the Dodgers don’t mind the extra pressure and attention; in fact, they welcome it.
Mookie Betts, one of the Dodgers’ star players, recently stated in an interview with Spectrum SportsNet that every game will feel like the opposition’s World Series. The team’s dynamic presence on the field will make every matchup significant, even in a long 162-game season where games and series don’t always carry significant stakes.
The Dodgers have certainly improved their roster this offseason, adding talented players like Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, Teoscar Hernández, James Paxton, and Manuel Margot. These acquisitions have solidified the Dodgers’ position as baseball’s villains, as they continue to dominate the National League West.
However, the team wants to make it clear that they weren’t built solely on their willingness to spend money. Nearly half of the players on their 40-man roster are homegrown talents. Pitcher Walker Buehler emphasizes that the team’s success is not just a result of their financial investments but also the development of their own players.
While it’s true that the Dodgers have spent over $1.1 billion on payroll this year, including a significant amount for Ohtani, they don’t apologize for their spending. They are fully aware of their reputation as the game’s most hated team but embrace the infamy that comes with it. They won’t apologize for their decision-making; this was always their plan, and it has worked out perfectly so far.
Manager Dave Roberts acknowledges that signing free agents is part of the game, especially for a market like Los Angeles. However, he also highlights the importance of homegrown talent and mentions several players who have come up through the Dodgers’ system.
The Dodgers’ spending has drawn comparisons to the New York Yankees, who have long been known as the “Evil Empire” for their history of success and willingness to spend money. However, the Yankees haven’t won a World Series in 15 years, and other teams have joined them in embracing a similar strategy.
The Dodgers’ projected payroll for this season is $295 million, significantly higher than many other teams. This disparity in spending highlights the different approaches teams take in building and maintaining competitive rosters. While some criticize the Dodgers for their spending, they remain focused on putting out the best team possible for their fans.
Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes dismisses the team’s budding reputation around the game. He believes that what matters most is building a team that can succeed in the postseason, where the Dodgers have consistently faltered in recent years. The acquisitions made this offseason are aimed at addressing those failures and bringing a championship to Los Angeles.
Dodgers players, like shortstop Gavin Lux, are embracing their villain status. They understand that someone has to take on that role, and they are excited to be a part of it. Regardless of perception, they appreciate the opportunity to play alongside some of baseball’s biggest stars.
Even players like relief pitcher Evan Phillips, who may not be as well-known as some of his teammates, recognize the significance of being on this roster. Phillips understands that regardless of the outcome, he will be a part of a team that will be remembered for years to come.
As the Dodgers prepare for the upcoming season, they are unapologetic about their role as baseball’s villains. They welcome the pressure and attention that comes with it and are determined to bring a championship to Los Angeles. With their star-studded roster and a mix of homegrown talent, the Dodgers are ready to make their mark on the game.