Mets-Dodgers is matchup of MLB's biggest payrolls The New York Mets and Los Angeles Dodgers are set to face off in what is shaping up to be the most expensive series in Major League Baseball history. The 2026 matchup features the two teams with the highest competitive balance tax (CBT) payrolls in the league, with the Mets carrying a $375 million-plus CBT payroll and the Dodgers holding the MLB-high $413.5 million CBT payroll. When combined with their respective tax bills, the total player expenditure for the 2026 season exceeds $1.07 billion, marking a historic financial showdown in baseball. The Dodgers’ 2026 CBT payroll alone surpasses the combined payrolls of the bottom four teams in MLB—the Chicago White Sox, Tampa Bay Rays, Cleveland Guardians, and Miami Marlins. Meanwhile, the Mets’ payroll eclipses the combined totals of the Chicago Cubs, Cleveland Guardians, and Tampa Bay Rays. The Dodgers’ estimated tax bill for 2026 is $161.9 million, which is higher than the total tax payrolls of 12 other teams, while the Mets’ $120 million tax bill exceeds the combined tax payrolls of six teams. The combined salaries of the four highest-paid players on both teams—Shohei Ohtani, Juan Soto, Kyle Tucker, and Bo Bichette—exceed the total payroll of 14 MLB teams. This figure is within $400,000 of the Seattle Mariners’ payroll, which ranks as the second-highest in the league. The New York Yankees are the only team besides the Mets with a payroll within $100 million of the Dodgers’ total. The Philadelphia Phillies rank fourth in the league at $312.7 million, which is $100.8 million less than the Dodgers’ payroll. The 2026 series is the most expensive in MLB history, surpassing the previous record set in 2025 when the Mets and Dodgers combined for a $764 million payroll.#shohei_ohtani #los_angeles_dodgers #juan_soto #new_york_mets #kyle_tucker
Dominican Republic hits four HRs in WBC rout of Netherlands The Dominican Republic dominated the Netherlands with a 12-1 victory in seven innings Sunday, securing a double-digit lead that triggered the mercy rule in the World Baseball Classic. Juan Soto, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Junior Caminero, and Austin Wells each hit home runs, propelling the Dominican team to a commanding win in Group D play. The game concluded in the bottom of the seventh when Soto’s two-run blast extended the Dominican Republic’s lead to 12-1, marking the third instance of a mercy rule ending in the tournament. The Dominicans outscored their opponents 24-4 in their first two games at loanDepot Park, showcasing their offensive prowess. Starter Luis Severino pitched four innings, allowing one run and three hits while striking out five. The team’s offensive surge began in the fifth inning, where Caminero hit a three-run homer and Wells added a two-run blast. Marte’s sacrifice fly further expanded the lead to 10-1. Caminero’s second home run of the tournament reached an exit velocity of 115.8 mph, highlighting his power. The Dominican Republic struck early in the first inning, capitalizing on a two-run opportunity against Netherlands starter Arij Fransen. Guerrero’s RBI single and Marte’s unearned run from third on a throwing error by Xander Bogaerts gave the Dominicans an early 2-0 lead. Didi Gregorius narrowed the gap for the Netherlands with a solo homer in the second inning, but Guerrero’s two-run drive in the third made it 4-1. The Netherlands’ struggles continued as the Dominican Republic’s offense kept churning out runs. The team’s ability to capitalize on scoring chances and defensive errors proved decisive in the rout.#dominican_republic #world_baseball_classic #juan_soto #vladimir_guerrero_jr #junior_caminero
Mets’ Juan Soto reflects on hitting game-ending homer in Dominican Republic’s win over Netherlands Juan Soto of the New York Mets took pride in his game-winning home run during the Dominican Republic’s victory over the Netherlands in an international exhibition match. The moment, which secured a crucial win for his national team, marked a significant milestone in Soto’s career. Speaking about the achievement, Soto described it as “one of the most important and beautiful times in my career,” highlighting the emotional weight of the moment. The home run came in a pivotal moment of the game, with the Dominican Republic trailing in the late innings. Soto’s clutch hit not only tied the game but ultimately propelled his team to victory. The win was particularly meaningful for the Dominican Republic, as it showcased their competitive spirit on the global stage. Soto’s performance underscored his ability to deliver under pressure, a trait that has defined his career in Major League Baseball. Soto’s reflection on the moment emphasized the blend of personal achievement and team success. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent his country and the pride that comes with contributing to a collective victory. The game also served as a platform for Soto to connect with fans and teammates, reinforcing the camaraderie that defines international competition. The Dominican Republic’s win over the Netherlands was a testament to the team’s preparation and resilience. Soto’s home run became a focal point of the celebration, symbolizing the blend of skill, strategy, and determination that characterized the match. For Soto, the moment was a reminder of the impact athletes can have beyond the field, inspiring fans and fellow players alike.#netherlands #dominican_republic #juan_soto #new_york_mets #international_exhibition_match
