DODGERS RAMP UP FOR THREE-PEAT: $58M Budget Space and Key Free Agent Decisions Set Offseason Strategy.vc
The Los Angeles Dodgers are officially embarking on their pursuit of a historic third consecutive World Series title in 2026, entering the offseason with significant financial flexibility and crucial decisions looming over their veteran core. According to ESPN, the Dodgers’ current payroll sits $58 million under their 2025 level, creating ample budget space for a massive free-agent acquisition or a trade blockbuster.
This newfound fiscal freedom is partly thanks to the departure of several key veterans, most notably the retirement of franchise legend Clayton Kershaw and the release of long-time catcher Austin Barnes. With the payroll cleared, the front office is now focused on how to upgrade the roster while addressing the status of their remaining unrestricted free agents.
The Return Question: Rojas and Relievers
While the Dodgers are prioritizing external stars like Kyle Tucker, they must first decide the fate of their internal free agents.
| Player | Position | 2025 Contribution | Free Agent Outlook |
| Miguel Rojas | Second Base/Utility | World Series Game 7 Hero (Game-tying HR, Clutch Defense); $.272 AVG in regular season. | Strong Return Candidate. Despite turning 37, his veteran leadership and World Series heroics make his expressed interest in returning for his final season appealing. |
| Michael Conforto | Outfielder | Inconsistent performance (.202 AVG, .649 OPS). Was left off the postseason roster. | Unlikely to Return. The “Conforto experiment” did not pan out. The Dodgers will seek a major upgrade in the outfield. |
| Kirby Yates | Relief Pitcher | Finished 4-3 with 3 saves in 50 games. Hamstring injury issues. | Uncertain. His $13 million salary last year was high for his inconsistent output. The Dodgers may pursue younger, more stable bullpen arms. |
| Evan Phillips | Relief Pitcher | Limited to 7 games; non-tendered after Tommy John surgery in June. | Future Gamble. The Dodgers declined to tender him a contract, but they may re-sign him to a minor league deal to control his rights through his rehab. |
$58 Million Headroom: Targeting the Next Star
The non-tenders of relievers Evan Phillips and Nick Frasso, while unfortunate due to injury, were strategic decisions that saved the Dodgers cap space. The departure of Michael Conforto further opens a hole in the outfield.
This collective shedding of salary has fueled speculation that the Dodgers are preparing for a massive financial commitment to a star. With money to spend and only minor holes to patch, Los Angeles is widely viewed as the frontrunner for top-tier targets, confirming their goal to become the first team since the 2000 New York Yankees to achieve the elusive three-peat.
