Royals GM Praises Dodgers' Spending Strategy Ahead of CBA Talks

Kansas City's J.J. Picollo has no criticism for Los Angeles' big-market approach despite looming labor negotiations.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Kansas City Royals general manager J.J. Picollo had nothing but praise for the spending strategy of the Los Angeles Dodgers, a big-market team, despite the Royals operating in a smaller market with fewer financial resources. Picollo acknowledged the Dodgers' success in capitalizing on the current system, even as small-market owners prepare to push for a salary cap in the next Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations that could disrupt the 2027 season.

Why it matters

Picollo's comments stand out as many small-market team owners are typically critical of big spenders like the Dodgers, viewing their financial advantages as unfair. However, Picollo took a pragmatic approach, recognizing the Dodgers' success while suggesting smaller teams can still find ways to build competitive rosters despite resource disparities.

The details

The Royals have been a better team over the past two seasons, finishing over .500 each time and even earning a Wild Card berth in 2024. While the Royals don't have the same financial resources as teams like the Dodgers, Picollo acknowledged that the Dodgers have "done this strategically, and have done it well" in capitalizing on the current system's allowances.

  • The Royals and Dodgers are both preparing for the next Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations, which could disrupt the 2027 season.
  • Picollo's comments came in November 2023 during the MLB General Manager's Meetings in Scottsdale, Arizona.

The players

J.J. Picollo

The general manager of the Kansas City Royals, a small-market MLB team.

Los Angeles Dodgers

A big-market MLB team known for its high spending and success, including back-to-back World Series championships.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“They've done this strategically, and have done it well. They're capitalizing on things that are perfectly within what's permitted. What they're doing is fascinating, and it's really impressive.”

— J.J. Picollo, General Manager, Kansas City Royals (Sports Illustrated)

What’s next

The Royals and other small-market teams will likely push for a salary cap in the next Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations, which could disrupt the 2027 MLB season if an agreement is not reached.

The takeaway

Picollo's praise for the Dodgers' spending strategy, despite the resource disparities between big- and small-market teams, suggests a pragmatic approach to building a competitive roster within the current system. This contrasts with the typical criticism small-market owners levy against big spenders, highlighting Picollo's understanding that there are still ways for smaller teams to succeed.