Jeff Passan: MLB players don't want a salary cap (1:14)

Jesse Rogers Oct 23, 2026, 08:28 PM ET

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Jesse joined ESPN Chicago in September 2009 and covers MLB for ESPN.com.

MILWAUKEE -- MLB commissioner Rob Manfred believes having two smaller markets in the World Series is good for the sport, but said he will not deter owners from pursuing a salary cap as part of the next collective bargaining agreement.

In fact, Manfred said he thinks that the Milwaukee Brewers ' first World Series appearance in 44 years only bolsters the case for a cap.

"I think it shows that we leave a lot on the table in some of our smaller markets by not having them have an opportunity to compete on a regular basis," Manfred said on the field Friday before Game 1 of the World Series between Milwaukee and the Tampa Bay Rays . "The Brewers have been a well-run franchise forever. It's been 40 years since we're here.…