Criticism of the Dodgers’ success boiled over when Jason Kelce appeared on the “New Heights” podcast shortly after the 2025 World Series. With frustration aimed at MLB’s growing gap between big‑ and small‑market clubs, Kelce didn’t mince words:
“Baseball sucks. You just buy World Series championships… Everybody knew this was going to happen before the season.”
He questioned the legitimacy of the title as a product of spending rather than merit — a sentiment that resonated with other critics who point to the Dodgers’ record‑setting payroll.
On the “Starkville” podcast, Stan Kasten responded with measured — yet forceful — clarity. He acknowledged that while the Dodgers do spend heavily, payroll alone doesn’t guarantee championships.
“Usually the team with the highest payroll doesn’t win the World Series,” Kasten said.
He added that a successful franchise needs a robust farm system, consistent development, and smart roster construction — not just big checks.
Using a past‑championship team as example, he argued that success often comes from a mix of homegrown talent, trades, and free‑agency — the very blueprint the Dodgers have followed.
In 2025, the Dodgers carried one of the highest payrolls in MLB history.
That fact fuels the perception, among some fans and pundits, that the team “bought the ring.” What Kasten’s rebuttal does is challenge that — shifting the focus to culture, depth, development and organizational consistency.
Recent postseason success, including clutch hits from role players, unexpected contributions from younger players, and resilience under pressure, offers evidence supporting Kasten’s argument: winning is more than just assembling stars.
Kasten’s defense could recalibrate the narrative surrounding big‑spending teams. Instead of being seen solely as “wallet‑warriors,” franchises like the Dodgers may get more recognition for long-term strategy, talent evaluation, and development.
But the broader question remains: does heavy spending undermine competitive balance — or is smart spending just another valid path to success? As the league grapples with parity concerns, this exchange reignites a larger debate over how championships should be built.
Stan Kasten’s response to Jason Kelce’s harsh critique does more than defend a team — it defends a philosophy. By highlighting player development, roster construction, and organizational infrastructure, he argued that championships aren’t bought — they’re built.
As the Dodgers prepare for yet another competitive season, this could be as important a victory off the field as any they win on it.
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