“FINANCIAL FACTORS?”: Dodgers’ GM Emphasizes That Success Depends on More Than Just Money—“It Doesn’t Guarantee Anything…”
The Los Angeles Dodgers have made waves this offseason with their aggressive spending, acquiring some of the biggest names available. Their financial dominance is undeniable, leaving fans of rival teams frustrated. However, Dodgers General Manager Brandon Gomes insists that success is not just about money. While financial resources play a significant role, strategic planning and thorough preparation are just as crucial in assembling a championship-caliber roster.
Financial Power vs. Strategy: What Drives the Dodgers’ Success?
The Dodgers have long been known for their financial strength. Their ownership group is among the wealthiest in sports, boasting a net worth exceeding $400 billion. This financial muscle allows them to make high-profile signings, with spending reaching $1.1 billion in 2023 and already surpassing $300 million in the first month of 2025. Despite these staggering figures, the question remains: Is spending alone enough to guarantee success?
Brandon Gomes argues that money alone doesn’t ensure championships. The Dodgers’ approach involves meticulous planning, scouting, and development to build a roster capable of sustained success. While money allows them to attract top talent, their real edge lies in their ability to make strategic moves that balance star power with depth.
Fanbase: The Dodgers’ Hidden Strength
One of the Dodgers’ biggest assets is their massive and loyal fanbase. Since 2013, they have consistently led Major League Baseball in attendance, drawing more fans than any other team. Their popularity has translated into lucrative financial opportunities, including an $8.35 billion TV rights deal spanning 25 years. This financial stability enables the team to take a long-term approach to roster construction, unlike teams such as the Chicago Cubs, who have been more conservative with their spending.
The Dodgers’ ability to generate revenue gives them flexibility in making bold moves without the immediate pressure of turning a profit. However, as Gomes emphasizes, their strategy extends beyond just signing big names. The team focuses on building a roster that can endure the full MLB season, which is notoriously long and physically demanding.
Strategic Planning: More Than Just Star Power
Gomes points out that while the Dodgers have acquired marquee players, their strategy includes securing depth to handle the inevitable injuries and fluctuations in player performance. One example of this is their signing of Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki. While the Dodgers already have star pitchers like Shohei Ohtani, having Sasaki in the mix provides insurance against injuries, ensuring that the team remains competitive even if a key player goes down.
The Dodgers have faced challenges with player injuries, particularly among their pitching staff. This makes it essential to have capable backups ready to step up. Rather than simply acquiring high-priced free agents, the Dodgers carefully evaluate talent and consider long-term durability when constructing their roster.
Spending Wisely: Bargain Deals in a Competitive Market
Despite their reputation for big spending, the Dodgers have also made shrewd financial decisions. For instance, they signed reliever Tanner Scott to a four-year, $72 million deal—a relatively modest contract given his talent. Surprisingly, no other teams aggressively pursued Scott, allowing the Dodgers to secure a valuable asset at a reasonable price.
MLB insider Ken Rosenthal has criticized other teams for failing to act quickly in the market, often leaving the Dodgers in a position to make smart acquisitions. This demonstrates that while financial resources are essential, having a proactive and well-researched strategy is just as important in roster construction.
Are the Dodgers Buying Success?
The debate over whether the Dodgers are “buying” their success or winning through strategic planning continues. A recent poll asked fans whether the team’s success is driven primarily by money, strategy, or a mix of both. The responses varied, highlighting the complexity of the issue.
While the Dodgers’ financial strength is a significant advantage, their ability to blend big spending with intelligent decision-making sets them apart. Some teams rely solely on financial constraints when making decisions, while others, like the Dodgers, take a holistic approach by integrating analytics, scouting, and player development.
Lessons for Other Teams
The Dodgers’ model provides a roadmap for other teams looking to build competitive rosters. While not every franchise has the financial resources of Los Angeles, the emphasis on strategic planning, depth, and long-term sustainability can be applied across the league. Teams that fail to invest in scouting, analytics, and development may struggle to compete, even if they have the funds to sign star players.
In contrast, organizations that take a calculated approach—balancing financial resources with intelligent acquisitions—stand a better chance of achieving sustained success. The Dodgers’ ability to combine their wealth with strong decision-making has positioned them as perennial contenders, proving that money alone is not the sole factor in building a championship team.
Final Thoughts
The Dodgers’ spending spree this offseason has reinforced their reputation as one of baseball’s most powerful franchises. However, as Brandon Gomes insists, success is not guaranteed by money alone. The team’s ability to strategically construct a well-balanced roster, backed by their passionate fanbase and long-term financial planning, makes them a formidable force in Major League Baseball.
Whether other teams choose to emulate the Dodgers’ approach or continue operating within their financial limitations remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Los Angeles is not just throwing money at players—they are building a dynasty through a combination of financial power, strategic intelligence, and meticulous planning.
