MLB's salary cap proposal won't fix the league's non-existent competitive balance problems

After years of decline, Major League Baseball is finally growing in popularity again. Particularly with young fans, drawn to the game with faster pace of play, and a group of compelling, historic stars like Shohei Ohtani, Bobby Witt Jr., and Aaron Judge.

Ratings are up across the sport. Attendance league-wide has consistently increased, with some teams seeing significant growth already in 2026. All this momentum, however, could be squandered after the 2026 season. How? By an extended lockout.