The World Series of the have-nots is here. But baseball’s money problem isn’t going away

The Milwaukee Brewers edged the Tampa Bay Rays 3-2 in Game 1 of the World Series, marking a rare championship matchup between two low-budget, small-market franchises. Milwaukee pitcher Jacob Misiorowski delivered the fastest recorded pitch in World Series history at 103.5 mph, holding Tampa Bay to one run over five innings. After an overturned double play in the ninth inning heightened late drama, closer Trevor Megill secured the win by striking out Jonny DeLuca.

Despite the competitive success of smaller franchises defying heavy spenders like the Los Angeles Dodgers, the author notes that financial tension looms over Major League Baseball. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred advocates for a salary cap, while players' union interim leader Bruce Meyer strongly opposes it, pointing toward a looming December 1 lockout that threatens the 2027 season.