https://totallytigers.wordpress.com/2022/03/01/watercooler-wednesday-27/
WATERCOOLER WEDNESDAY.
Totally Tigers
Today, another opportunity for readers to discuss the hottest topics in a forum where thoughtful dialog and a variety of opinions are welcomed.
Let?s create some running conversational threads. And for those of you still going into offices, here?s a question to take with you ? or use via Zoom calls ? as you talk to your co-workers.
Here is today?s hot topic.
One of the biggest issues under discussion between players and owners has been the Competitive Balance Tax or ?luxury tax? as it is commonly known.
Currently, there is no minimum payroll for teams while there is a de facto salary cap of $210 million. Teams that go above this figure pay a graduated tax on their payroll.
Last year, only 1 team spent over the luxury tax limit. Meanwhile, 12 teams spent under $100 mill. Four of those teams spent $58 mill or less. The average MLB payroll now sits at $132 million.
Players have proposed establishing a payroll floor so teams will be forced to assemble a competitive roster. They have also argued that the luxury tax limit be raised to $245 million.
Owners do not want a payroll floor while also stating that they want to keep nearly the same ceiling. They believe that raising payroll will give the richest teams an unfair competitive advantage.
Players believe that the yearly drop (for the past 6 years) in payroll is creating uncompetitive teams while also preventing their middle class of players (those no longer under team control and seeking their first real contracts) from receiving fair offers.
We know that owners will never agree to a payroll floor, but what about a new ceiling?
Should teams be able to spend more than $210 million without penalty?
Will raising the ceiling inspire more spending?
Will a new ceiling force teams with the smallest payrolls to increase theirs?
What do you think?
Should the MLB payroll ceiling be raised?
1. No, keep it at $210 million.
2. Yes, raise it.
VOTE
