In the United States, the Los Angeles Dodgers, recent back-to-back World Series champions, have kicked off their 2026 season with DodgerFest. During the event, manager Dave Roberts addressed fans and reporters and shared a striking admission regarding his apprehension about rewatching Game 7 of the World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays. He expressed that he has avoided doing so out of fear that the outcome might have been different, which underlines the emotional weight of the game for both him and the team. The 2025 World Series Game 7 has been hailed as one of the greatest baseball games ever played, captivating approximately 51 million viewers and leaving a lasting impression on fans. ESPN's Paul Hembekides noted that the game’s thrilling nature was evident in the numerous pivotal moments, with nine plays influencing the championship's outcome significantly. For context, previous records, such as the Game 7 in 1924, set the standard for dramatic finishes in baseball history. The Dodgers are striving for a three-peat in the upcoming season, bolstered by significant roster improvements, including the acquisition of top-tier players Kyle Tucker and Edwin Diaz, further solidifying their presence as a powerhouse in the league. However, discussions around whether the Dodgers' spending and success are detrimental to baseball have resurfaced, with opinions divided among teams within the league. San Francisco Giants CEO Larry Baer gave an opposing perspective in a recent interview, suggesting that having a dominant team like the Dodgers provides motivation for rival teams, which he perceives as beneficial to the sport. He acknowledged that the Giants’ past championships were unexpected, illustrating the unpredictability of baseball, and commended the Dodgers for building their successful organization through both financial backing and strong player development. Baer's remarks challenge the notion that the Dodgers' strategy is damaging to the sport, portraying them instead as a benchmark for other teams aiming for success.