Los Angeles Dodgers Reach 2025 World Series Amid Historic $321M Payroll

The 2025 World Series features the Los Angeles Dodgers facing the Toronto Blue Jays, with the Dodgers favored to win due to their strong, well-rounded team rather than just their high payroll. Despite having the highest payroll, teams like the New York Mets failed to make the playoffs, underscoring that money alone doesn't guarantee success, while the Dodgers' combination of healthy and skilled players has propelled them to dominance. The Blue Jays, considered underdogs, face a tough challenge against the Dodgers' stacked pitching rotation and lineup. Meanwhile, Los Angeles faces broader challenges beyond baseball, including city issues such as fires, homelessness, and political conflicts that have even led President Donald Trump to threaten revoking the 2028 Olympics from the city. The Dodgers continue to serve as a unifying symbol for Los Angeles amid these struggles, embodying resilience and excellence in sports. Additionally, the Los Angeles Angels are struggling with a long playoff drought and organizational instability, highlighting contrasting fortunes for Los Angeles baseball teams this season.