The Dodgers spent, spent, and spent some more last offseason after another surprise NLDS exit, turning what was already a championship-or-bust team into what many perceived as a powerhouse. Shohei Ohtani wasn't the extent of the franchise's additions. The Dodgers also brought in Tyler Glasnow, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Teoscar Hernandez, among others, fortifying a team that already had two former MVP hitters.
The Dodgers have plenty of resources, but they don't always go all-out with money like they did ahead of this season. Los Angeles let Manny Machado, Corey Seager, and Trea Turner walk in free agency at different points. Last offseason showed the franchise was more serious than ever about winning a championship, and completing that mission now won't be easy.
Here's a look at the Dodgers' 2024 payroll and how it compares to other MLB playoff teams. MORE: How Dodgers have fallen short despite massive payroll Dodgers payroll breakdown 2024 The Dodgers' payroll for 2024 is $241 million, but their tax payroll is $339.9 million.
That means the Dodgers' payroll is counted as $339.9 million as it relates to MLB's luxury tax thresholds, even though the roster itself is making only $241 million. What's the reason for the discrepancy? The biggest factor is Ohtani's deferred contract, which pays him only $2 million this season but still counts as $46 million against the tax.
Other deals affect the tax differently as well, including Yamamoto's hefty contract. His deal is backloaded, wit.